shutterstock 11281078

Ah, tweakment-related bruising. When you think about it, it’s logical that even supposedly ‘no downtime’ procedures (think: certain [vascular lasers](https://aedit.com/procedure/nonablative-fractional-lasers), [dermal filler](https://aedit.com/aedition/everything-you-need-to-know-about-dermal-fillers), and [neurotoxin injections](https://aedit.com/aedition/comparing-neurotoxin-botulinum-type-a-injections-botox-dysport-jeuveau-xeomin)) can leave you with marks and bruises that last a few days to a couple of weeks. After all, the areas of the face where people most often get this type of temporary help (the eyes, lips, and forehead) are also where the skin is quite thin and fragile — hence why they are prone to showing aging, volume loss, and texture issues in the first place.
 
So, what’s an easy-to-mark aesthetics fan to do? Trying what you can to prevent hematomas, caring for the ones that pop up despite your best efforts, and erasing all traces of them with makeup can all help. Here, the best practices for addressing those signs that make you feel like your face is screaming “Botox® needle was here” or “Filler just applied!” so you can tweak in peace.
 
## **What to Know Before You Go**
First, manage your expectations: Some people are simply more prone to bruising than others. A few things that can add to your propensity are age, certain medications, and good ol’ genetics. But it’s not all about you. Below are three other factors that may influence how much bruising and/or swelling you encounter after an injectable or laser treatment.

### **1. Find the Right Provider**
“Certainly experience and expertise matters when doing any procedure,” insists [Samer Jaber, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/samer-jaber-md-3882), board certified dermatologist at Washington Square Dermatology in NYC and a clinical assistant professor of dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. That’s why visiting the most skilled provider matters. “It’s important to see a board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon when doing cosmetic procedures, as they are trained in the anatomy of the face and have an understanding where the larger blood vessels are to minimize the risk of puncturing them,” he shares. Seeking out recommendations from people you know could be a good call, if possible. 
 
### **2. Ask About Technique**
Once you’ve found your doc, you’ve got another option to run by him or her when it comes to injections, says [Sarmela Sunder, MD](https://www.drcassileth.com/surgeons/dr-sarmela-sunder.html), a double board certified plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills: cannula or micro-cannula. These needles are blunt, flexible, and less likely to puncture blood vessels when going into the skin than the traditional rigid, sharp-tip variety. Whether you’re a candidate for using the technique comes down to factors like the type of product in the syringe, where it’s being injected, and doctor preference. But, according to Dr. Sunder, it’s worth asking about.
 
### **3. Skip Certain Supplements & Medications**
No matter the exact procedure you’re going in for, what you take beforehand can impact your recovery. “Patients must avoid all blood thinning agents such as NSAIDS, ibuprofen, Motrin, Advil, aspirin, green tea, omega-3 acids, fish oil, and many vitamins and supplements for two full weeks prior to their appointment to minimize their chance of bruising,” Dr. Sunder says. 

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/>

If that seems like a long list, settle in because one or two days before your appointment there’s another no-no to add: Alcohol. [Research shows](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5367875/#B1) it can increase bruising in non-surgical cosmetic treatment both before *and* after a treatment.
 
## **Bruise-Minimizing After Care**
Following your appointment, there are a few moves experts swear by to minimize bruising:
 
- **Ice Ice Baby**: Your doctor will likely have an ice pack handy, and Dr. Jaber says you should use it. He’s seen that periodically icing in the 24 hours post-procedure can minimize bruising.
- **Take a Rest Day**: Dr. Sunder suggests taking a break from things that get your blood pumping — like working out or being in extreme heat — for 48 hours after.
- **Sleep Strategically**: Sleeping with your head propped up with two pillows for a few days can help with swelling, as well as preventing and draining bruising.

As for treating dark marks, Dr. Jaber says his patients have taken arnica or bromelain to not only help decrease the risk of bruising but to help them fade faster, thanks to anti-inflammatory benefits that help the healing process. Some have found success using arnica topically as well to help them dissolve a few days ahead of schedule, [a strategy a 2016 research review](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25171757/) concluded was both safe and effective. One to try: [Arnicare Gel](https://shop.boironusa.com/medicine/arnicare-gel/).
 
And if you really want to get rid of a bigger bruise in a hurry, there is one last option to try, though it involves going back to your doc. Dr. Jaber says to ask about KTP or [pulsed dye lasers](https://aedit.com/procedure/pulsed-dye-laser), which can work on the blood vessels and “be used to treat the bruise and make it go away much more quickly.” But don’t say we didn’t warn you: Since they are vascular lasers themselves, there is a risk of light bruising. As such, it might not be the answer you’re looking for.

## **How to Conceal Post-Procedure Bruises**
Once you’ve done the best you can with ice, arnica, and the like, makeup can be an efficient way to conceal post-op bruising and dark marks. According to celebrity makeup artist [Suzy Gerstein](https://www.instagram.com/suzygerstein/?hl=en), it all starts with a high-quality densely pigmented concealer (she suggests [Kevyn Aucoin Sensual Skin Enhancer](https://www.sephora.com/product/the-sensual-skin-enhancer-P393953)). 

As for the age-old debate about whether concealer is best applied before or after foundation, she says it’s all a matter of preference. “It doesn’t really matter how you get to the party,” Gerstein explains. “Some makeup artists like to apply foundation before concealer to take the edge off of the discoloration before neutralizing and covering it completely, while others prefer to spot conceal and then blend it all together with foundation.”
 
Whatever your method, Gerstein insists the key to perfect concealer application is to “use a fine-topped, synthetic brush to concentrate the color just where you need it.” A concealer brush will do but she happens to love [Jenny Patinkin Luxury Vegan Pin Point Liner Brush](https://credobeauty.com/products/jenny-patinkin-pin-point-liner-brush). Then take a fluffier blending brush to buff out the edges before setting with powder.  
 
Final note: If there’s also swelling involved, think less is more. Not only do you need to be super careful with puffy areas (as not to irritate sore spots), but you should also go thinner with your makeup application. Gerstein says that anything thick “will draw the eye to the thing you’re trying to make recede.” Another tip? Switching to a slightly darker shade than you would usually think to use can also help. Going too light, she says, “will optically bring the area even more forward.” And that, of course, is exactly the opposite of your goal.

AEDITION rejuvenators-min

Medical Aesthetics Collection | The AEDITION

Aesthetics

Your guide to preventing, minimizing, and treating those annoying telltale marks.

How To Prevent And Treat Bruising After Laser Treatments, Dermal Fill, Botox

Injectable And Laser Bruising: How To Prevent, How To Conceal, How To Deal

omar-lopez-auEe5lKHZCw-unsplash

After several months of tending to our own hair a little more than usual (DIY haircuts and color during quarantine, anyone?), it’s likely you’ve learned a trick or two when it comes to general care. But, to keep your locks in tip-top shape, it’s important your hair care and styling routine are aligned to your hair type and hue. To give you the best tips and tools of the trade, we talked to top stylists, colorists, and a trichologist. Organized by hair texture and color, read on to discover the best ways to care for and style your mane both at home and in the salon. 

## **Hair Care by Texture: Straight**
![AEDIT-straight](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/2kc2Y7e9yZ5W6tyULLVGep/3d584b968e6c95508183e50ac2524dfe/AEDIT-straight.png)
You can have straight hair that is fine, medium, or coarse textured, and caring for it is about choosing the right products, says Anabel Kingsley, brand president and consultant trichologist at [Philip Kingsley](https://www.philipkingsley.com/). “For example, fine straight hair may be wispy and fly away, whereas coarse straight hair may frizz,” she explains. “Both these hair textures will therefore require different product needs.” she explains.

- **Fine to Medium Texture**: Choose lightweight smoothing products that will tame fly-aways and not weigh your style down, Kingsley says. In terms of shampoo and conditioner, she recommends the [Philip Kingsley Body Building and Moisture Balancing](https://www.philipkingsley.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=Philip+Kinglsey+Body+Building+and+Moisture+Balancing#q=Philip%20Kinglsey%20Body%20Building%20and%20Moisture%20Balancing&idx=production_us_en_products&p=0&nR%5Bvisibility_search%5D%5B%3D%5D%5B0%5D=1) collection.
- **Thick and Coarse Texture**: A heavier cream or serum may be needed, in addition to a hydrating shampoo and conditioner. [Scott Fabian](https://www.instagram.com/scottsinnyc/?hl=en), a hairstylist at [Sally Hershberger Nomad](https://www.sallyhershbergernomad.com/), likes the [Sally Hershberger 24K Get Gorgeous Shampoo and Conditioner](https://www.hsn.com/products/sally-hershberger-24k-get-gorgeous-stylepro-duo/7895833).

“Regardless of your hair type, always apply anti-frizz or smoothing products throughout your mid-lengths and ends — not your roots — to avoid dullness and limpness,” Kingsley advises. For root lift, she recommends [Philip Kingsley Maximizer Root Boosting Spray](https://www.philipkingsley.com/philip-kingsley-maximizer.html), while the [Maximizer Strand Plumping Cream](https://www.philipkingsley.com/plumping-cream.html) adds volume and body throughout mid-lengths and ends.

### **Styling Straight Hair**
When it comes to styling straight hair, Fabian says you can add sleekness or body, depending on what you’re after. “To enhance your straight hair, add [R+Co Tinsel Smoothing Oil](https://www.dermstore.com/product_TINSEL+Smoothing+Oil+_74482.htm) for shine or pass a flat iron over then ends to give a more professional look.” For texture, he recommends [Oribe Dry Texture Spray](https://www.oribe.com/oribestorefront/Collections/Signature/Dry-Texturizing-Spray/p/400129) to add a bit of grit. 

Naeemah LaFond, global artistic director at [Amika](https://loveamika.com/), likes using the brand’s new [(H)air Blow Dryer Brush](https://www.sephora.com/product/amika-hair-blow-dryer-brush-P460000) to style straight hair. “This tool not only makes the whole blow-out process a breeze, but it does so in the safest way by providing technology meant to protect the integrity of your hair,” she says. No one wants to sacrifice the health of their hair for convenience. “For straighter hair types, the brush can either give you a voluminous blowout, if you dry it rolled into the brush, or it can give you a more smooth finish with a bend at the ends, if you dry it by brushing the hair straight and rolling the ends,” she explains. 

## **Hair Care by Texture: Wavy**
![AEDIT-wavy](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/6lnJrGUvxiP545419EGMoi/a0dbf3273dffb7d4ee7cf9b41be6aa5b/AEDIT-wavy.png)
For waves and curls, Fabian says it’s important to not shampoo every day. It takes longer for your natural oils to spiral down the hair, and over-washing can result in dry, staticky hair. “Oils are good to help smooth and nourish the hair,” he adds. He recommends using [Oribe Curl Gloss](https://www.dermstore.com/product_Curl+Gloss_77269.htm) and [Hairstory Hair Balm](https://www.hairstory.com/catalogue/hair-balm_4/) to style waves. 

Since keeping wavy strands conditioned is so important, Kingsley recommends the [Philip Kingsley Daily Damage Defence Leave-in Conditioning Spray](https://www.philipkingsley.com/philip-kingsley-daily-damage-defense-conditioning-spray.html) and the [Moisture Extreme Shampoo and Conditioner](https://www.philipkingsley.com/philip-kingsley-moisture-extreme-shampoo.html) for natural waves. The conditioner “is deeply nourishing and moisturizing to aid with waves and curl retention,” she says. 

### **Styling Wavy Hair**
To enhance definition when styling, [Kingsley likes Philip Kingsley Curl Activator Curl Defining Cream](https://www.philipkingsley.com/philip-kingsley-curl-activator.html). She recommends the [Philip Kingsley Finishing Touch Polishing Serum](https://www.philipkingsley.com/polishing-balm.html#:~:text=Previously%20know%20as%20PK%20Prep,smooth%2C%20frizz%2Dfree%20styles.), meanwhile, to tame frizz and smooth.

## **Hair Care by Texture: Curly** 
![AEDIT-curly](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/y10f9featBwi3N6wLR9pN/004bd4b9a259c23b2b1426676f0e85e2/AEDIT-curly.png)
“Natural coiled curls are the most vulnerable to damage of all hair textures due to its unique structure and specific processing, styling, and grooming needs,” Kingsley says. The hair shaft of natural coiled curls is flat with a twisted structure and a thin diameter. “Where these ‘twists’ occur, there is a change in the width of the hair — think of what happens when you bend or twist a straw,” she explains. “These twists and curls are weak points along your hair, and this is one of the reasons why natural coiled curls break so easily.”

Trying to detangle curls can worsen hair breakage (if you’re not careful) and pulling may also lead to traction loss, so be as gentle as possible, Kingsley advises. “Start at the ends and work up to your roots with a wide-tooth comb,” she says. To help prevent snapping and
breakage, she says to use an intensive pre-shampoo conditioning treatment at least once a week. Generally speaking, she says to look for products labeled:

- Moisturizing
- Re-moisturizing
- Emollient
- Deep conditioning
- Elasticizing
- Penetrative
- Intensive

### **Styling Curly Hair**
Every curl is different, which is what makes curl hair so unique, Fabian notes. Some amount of trial and error is often needed to find the perfect product combination. “Trying different setting techniques is a fun way to see how many different ways you can enhance your curls,” Fabian says. While he likes the [Pattern Beauty](https://patternbeauty.com/) and [Melanin Haircare](https://melaninhaircare.com/) ranges, he recommends talking to your stylist and fellow curly-haired friends for advice. 

## **Hair Care by Texture: Fine**
![AEDIT-fine](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/3CLeFBW0hhBCOC0tPa8Oio/b7cab608e8fa046aa80c7ca3f43b0704/AEDIT-fine.png)
Shampooing helps deliver bounce and shine to all hair types. For finer hair, a daily habit may be necessary, Kingsley says. “Your hair accumulates bits of dirt, dust, oil and grime every day – just like your skin — and these can really weigh it down,” she explains. “Daily shampooing also helps keep your scalp healthy and clear of flakes and skin-cell build-up.” 

Also, don’t believe the myth that you should skip conditioner. In fact, the right kind of conditioner (applied to mid-lengths and ends only) will make your hair smooth and shiny without limpness. At home, she recommends using the [Philip Kingsley Elasticizer Deep-Conditioning Treatment](https://www.violetgrey.com/product/elasticizer/PHK-PHI100N) once a week. 

### **Styling Fine Hair**
Fabian notes that fine hair (which can be straight, wavy, or curly) tends to be on the fragile side. When styling, he likes to use a soft brush like [Mason Pearson](https://www.anthropologie.com/shop/mason-pearson-popular-mixture-brush?color=001&type=STANDARD&size=One%20Size&quantity=1). “Fine hair may also be on the flat side, so blow drying with volume can battle that problem,” he says. “And flipping your head upside down and rough-drying is a great way to add volume.” He recommends the [Sally Hershberger 24k Root Envy](https://www.hsn.com/products/sally-hershberger-24k-root-envy-root-boost/8677682) for a boost. 

## **Hair Care by Texture: Thick**
![AEDIT-thick](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/7ispPL9uPuZ8FC0rjTXQB8/37ec5d66308a425e255092ee0eebdce8/AEDIT-thick.png)
Coarse, thick is usually on the drier side, so adding moisture is key, Fabian says. He recommends the [Christophe Robin Prickly Pear Treatment](https://www.sephora.com/product/regenerating-mask-with-rare-prickly-pear-seed-oil-P401454) and [Shu Uemura Essence Absolue Nourishing Oil-In-Cream](https://www.sephora.com/product/essence-absolue-nourishing-oil-in-cream-camellia-oil-P403914) to nourish and prep for styling. 

### **Styling Thick Hair**
Thick hair is definitely a big job! Fabian says to take your time and be patient so you don’t get overwhelmed. He advises blow drying in small sections. “A great product that helps speed up blow-dry time is [Shu Uemura Straightforward Blow Dry Oil Spray](https://www.shuuemuraartofhair-usa.com/styling/straightforward-blow-dry-oil-spray.html),” Fabian says. And don’t forget about the power of a good haircut. Professionally having some weight taken out by a stylist can really help lighten up the hair.

## **Hair Care by Color**
Regardless of what type or shade of hair color you opt for, keeping your hue vibrant *and* your hair healthy can prove problematic. [Dana Ionato](https://www.sallyhershberger.com/dana-ionato), a colorist at Sally Hershberger Nomad, recommends the [K18 Peptide Masque Starter Kit](https://www.k18hair.com/pages/k18peptide-masque-tube) for anyone with color-treated hair that’s damaged (though it works particularly revolutionary for platinum blondes). “It’s similar to Olaplex, but I like the application better,” she explains. “It’s easier to use thanks to its thicker consistency.” 

Her advice: Pump a walnut-sized amount in your hand, smear it all over your hair after you shampoo, then comb it through, and leave it in. “It’s also almost clear in color, so it won’t show up on blonde or dark hair,” Ionato says, adding that it’s a permanent fix that doesn’t wash out.

## **Hair Care by Color: Highlights**
![AEDIT-highlights](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/4SP3tIJ4QH6uajUj46jBGx/744bf9525b23e93ddcf6dd79accfc11f/AEDIT-highlights.png)
Jason Backe, CEO and master colorist at [Starring by Ted Gibson](https://starring.tedgibson.com/salon/stylists/), says that the biggest issue for most people with highlighted hair is that “no matter how gorgeous they look when you leave the salon, as you shampoo, the toner fades and the yellow tones start to appear.” His trick is to stay ahead of the issue? Use a shampoo and (occasionally) a conditioner with a violet base. “I am a fan of the [Dualsenses Blondes & Highlights Anti-Yellow Shampoo](https://www.goldwell.com/en-us/products/care/dualsenses/blondes-highlights/) from Goldwell,” Backe says. He recommends using the shampoo every time you wash your hair, but only use the conditioner every third wash. It’ll ensure “your highlights don’t get too drab,” he shares.

We’re all about a multitasker, and Ionato loves using [Sally Hershberger 24K Superiority Complex Texturizing Hair Paste](https://www.sallyhershberger.com/products/superiority-complex-texturizing-paste) on highlighted hair — brunette or blonde — that’s lackluster. It smooths, hydrates, and adds a bit of radiance. “Once you apply it to your hair, it seals down the hair cuticle,” she says. “It hydrates and also makes any highlights look refreshed just by smoothing down the ends that are normally frizzing out.” There’s also shimmer in it, so you’ll be left with the sexiest looking hair possible, she adds. 
 
## **Hair Care by Color: Single-Process**
![AEDIT-single-proces](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/6gWZrDODrt3XCSdg0NdOBL/5e92c6780e8a2469a3032931dbcca6a8/AEDIT-single-proces.png)
Besides maintaining the new growth every three to five weeks, Backe says there is another big factor that keeps your single-process color from looking fresh — fading. “The more you shampoo, the faster your color can fade,” he explains. He advises that you stop shampooing daily if you can, and, when you do shampoo, use a product specifically formulated for color-treated hair. He likes [Oribe Shampoo for Beautiful Color](https://www.dermstore.com/product_Shampoo+for+Beautiful+Color_77265.htm), as it’s “great for all color-treated hair — no matter the shade.” 
 
## **Hair Care by Color: Platinum Blonde**
![AEDIT-platinum](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/3T9xpLeA7CSZ5stGZ0icSI/677c92ab3be6e6c5bf085ef29a9c7491/AEDIT-platinum.png)
“Platinum hair is like a religious cult,” Backe says. “Once you enter the inner circle of the blondest of blond, you need to commit.” It’s true: Going platinum means a salon visit every three weeks. The more you let your roots grow out, the more drama you create for yourself and your hairdresser, Backe cautions. In between salon visits, try using a [Roux Fanci-Full Rinse](https://www.sallybeauty.com/hair/hair-color/temporary-hair-color/temporary-color-rinse/ROUX1.html). “These are the oldest of old school, temporary, and give a super cool glamour to any bleach and tone,” Backe says. His personal favorite is White Minx.
 
## **Hair Care by Color: Dark Brown/Black**
![AEDIT-black](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/3EMnH5em27iuVFyxbChG2n/210c050915ba485275d5b67aa001ed1c/AEDIT-black.png)
Brunettes already know this, but it bears repeating: Orange is the enemy. “Heat styling, the elements, and daily wear and tear can make your color fade and expose the orange and red tones that lie just beneath the surface,” Backe explains. He says that your best bet is a product that will help prevent color loss during heat styling. His go-to is the [Starring by Ted Gibson Shooting Star Texture Meringue](https://www.violetgrey.com/product/texture-meringue/STR-SSTM-1A). “With the smell of fig, amber, and coconut, you will smell amazing, and, with its heat protecting agents, you will shine bright like a diamond,” he says.   
 
## **Hair Care by Color: Red**
![AEDIT-red](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/CJyY6SYbqW0QrGdPXrTHm/de846728e74f101b684e450362b55c0e/AEDIT-red.png)
According to Backe, red is the trickiest color for two reasons: 

1. It’s the hardest color to perfect and maintain when you want it
2. It’s the hardest to remove when you don’t want it anymore

All of you redheads know you can judge the skill of a colorist by their reds, he adds. “Once you find the technician — or, dare I say, box formula for you sacrilegious at-home colorists — stick with it,” Backe advises. “The best way to keep your copper, auburn, and flame reds looking on point is to do a biweekly gloss with a demi-permanent shade.” Apply the product to wet hair for added luster, he adds.   

Ionato likes [Davines Alchemic Conditioner in Copper](https://us.davines.com/products/alchemic-conditioner-copper) for redheads of all sorts, from dark red/orange to the brightest copper tones. After you shampoo, squeeze out excess water and apply a walnut-sized to a quarter-cup amount all over the hair (from roots to ends) for seven to 15 minutes. Rinse well, and you’ll see the faded pigments restored. Use in between salon services to maintain color. “It’s also really hydrating, smells good, and will do wonders for your red hue,” Ionato notes. 

## **Hair Care by Color: Gray** 
![AEDIT-gray](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/2QqtN7DWZ2l4SP5zvgJIA4/ef7ede6524b11dbb255a76b1961fed54/AEDIT-gray.png)
Ionato has an amazing trick for creating a smooth, uniform texture when dealing with grays (natural or dyed) — and you can mix it up at home. After shampooing, apply a mixture of about half a shot glass’ amount of [Clairol Shimmer Lights](https://www.ulta.com/shimmer-lights-purple-shampoo-blonde-silver-hair?productId=pimprod2005292&sku=2544848) and [John Frieda Luminous Glaze Clear Shine Gloss](https://www.ulta.com/luminous-color-glaze-clear-shine?productId=xlsImpprod620050&sku=2149478). “This will refresh the vibrancy of your hair and deposit tone without using direct dye,” she says. 

When it comes to styling naturally gray hair, Backe says to be careful about what products you use and how much heat you apply. “Both of those things can cause your naturally gray hair to yellow,” he says. Another culprit? [Smoking](https://aedit.com/aedition/impact-of-cigarette-smoking-vaping-on-skin-hair-teeth-health). “Oh, and the biggest culprit of all is cigarette smoke,” he adds. “The fumes from smoking will turn all of your gray hair yellow and dingy. So, quit.

AEDITION for men-min

Expert Opinion Collection | The AEDITION

Expert Opinion

To give you the best tips and tools of the trade, we talked to top stylists, colorists, and a trichologist about the best way to care for and style your hair.

Best Hair Care Products For Straight, Wavy, Curly, Dyed Hair

The Best Hair Care For Your Hair Texture And Color

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Men are no strangers to hair loss. According to the [American Hair Loss Association](https://www.americanhairloss.org/men_hair_loss/introduction.html), two-thirds of men in the United States experience hair loss by the age of 35. By the age of 50, approximately 85 percent of American men report noticeable hair thinning. While receding hairlines and bald spots can be attributed to genetics, there are other types of hair loss and thinning that occur as a result of diet, medical conditions, medications, stress, and more. Here, a guide to the five most common causes of hair loss in men and how to treat them.

## **1. Genetics**
Genetics (read: family history) is the overwhelming culprit of balding among men. Male pattern baldness (MPB) [accounts for more than 95 percent of hair loss among men](https://www.americanhairloss.org/men_hair_loss/#:~:text=Androgenetic%20Alopecia%20or%20common%20male,men%20have%20significantly%20thinning%20hair.) in the U.S. Medically known as androgenetic alopecia, male pattern baldness is characterized by a receding hairline and thinning around the crown of the head. The American Hair Loss Association reports some 25 percent of men  start to see the effect of MPB as young as age 21. 

Hereditary hair loss is usually caused by hormonal changes. “Hormonal imbalances play a big role in both male and [female pattern hair loss](https://aedit.com/aedition/common-causes-of-hair-loss-thinning-shedding-in-women),” says [Benjamin Paul, MD](https://www.drbenpaul.com/), a double board certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon in NYC. “Genetic hair loss often involves a sensitivity to androgens, hence the [term] ‘androgenic alopecia.’”

As Dr. Paul explains, when the hair follicle is sensitive to androgens — particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT) — the hair shaft miniaturizes and becomes smaller in diameter. “Over time, the hair may not grow at all,” he says, adding some non-surgical hair restoration solutions directly address this hormonal imbalance. “There are many treatments, such as [Propecia](https://aedit.com/procedure/finasteride-propecia) and saw palmetto, that directly lower DHT and improve hair growth and longevity,” he shares.

[Minoxidil](https://aedit.com/procedure/minoxidil-rogaine) (a.k.a. Rogaine) is a topical medication applied directly to the scalp to stimulate hair growth. [Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections](https://aedit.com/procedure/plateletrich-plasma-prp-for-hair-loss) for hair loss are another minimally invasive treatment option gaining popularity. During the procedure, the doctor will draw blood (usually from the arm) and separate the platelets using a centrifuge to concentrate the growth factors. Once injected into your scalp, PRP brings increased blood flow to the hair follicles, which stimulates new growth and lengthens the anagen (i.e. active) phase of the hair cycle to promote growth.

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  slug={what-its-like-to-get-prp-injections-for-male-hair-loss}
/>

Men looking for a more permanent solution may consider surgical hair transplants. The surgery involves harvesting hair follicles from a donor site (usually the back of the head) and transplanting them to a bald or thinning area. In a [follicular unit extraction (FUE)](https://aedit.com/procedure/follicular-unit-extraction-fue), individual hairs are removed, while a [follicular unit transplantation (FUT)](https://aedit.com/procedure/strip-harvesting) involves harvesting a strip of hair. While the process is highly effective, it requires patience. It can take 12 to 18 months to see full results. 

## **2. Diet & Nutrition**
While diet does not usually play as big a role in male hair loss as it does for women, nutritional deficiencies can lead to unintended thinning and shedding. This is particularly true when men fail to meet the required dietary allowances (RDA) of vitamins and minerals. Key contributors to hair growth include iron, zinc, vitamin B, and protein, which are naturally found in many animal products. 

“Most of us get enough biotin and other b-complex from our diets,” says [Gary Linkov, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/gary-linkov-md-6976), a double board certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon in NYC. “But, if not, then supplementation can help.” While vitamins alone won’t restore your hairline, they are important for overall health. “Usually this is not the most effective way to maintain hair health,” he cautions. “But it does have a really good safety profile, so sometimes patients opt to take hair supplements instead of other treatments.”

Be sure to consult with your provider before introducing any new vitamins or supplements to your regimen. Once you get the greenlight, remember that consistency is key. “As with most hair treatments, at least six months of consistent use is recommended before assessing for efficacy,” Dr. Linkov says. 

## **3. Medical Conditions** 
For men and women alike, there are an array of medical conditions that can cause hair loss. While the thinning or balding is not always permanent, hair restoration options will depend on the underlying medical condition being treated. Dr. Linkov lays out some common medical conditions linked to hair loss below:

### **Alopecia Areata**
The most common condition to cause inflammation-induced hair loss, alopecia areata is characterized by well-demarcated patches of hair loss. It can progress to complete loss of hair from the scalp (alopecia totalis) or from the whole body (alopecia universalis), in severe cases. No treatment is curative, but immunosuppressive therapies are mostly (like corticosteroids) can provide relief. More recently, Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors have been introduced into the management of alopecia areata.

### **Hashimoto's Thyroiditis** 
The leading cause of hypothyroidism, Hasimoto’s thyroiditis occurs when the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, which produces hormones regulating many of the body's activities. If the condition remains untreated, hair loss may result. Additionally, a side effect of thyroid replacement therapy with levothyroxine may lead to prolonged or excessive hair loss. 

### **Graves’ Disease**
Another thyroid disorder, Graves’ disease causes antibodies to bind to the surface of thyroid cells leading to the overproduction of thyroid hormones. Hyperthyroidism can affect the production of new hair on the scalp and sometimes on the body. The imbalance of hormones forces hair follicles to enter the resting phase of the hair cycle prematurely. 

### **Lupus**
A chronic autoimmune disease that affects many different systems,  hair loss can occur when antibodies created by the body attack the hair follicles, causing the hair to fall out. Hair may grow back on its own during remission periods, but, if scarring occurs in affected follicles, the loss is likely permanent. 

## **4. Medication** 
There are a variety of medications that can cause hair shedding or exacerbate existing hair loss conditions. Some common drugs to blame include cholesterol-lowering medications, anticoagulants (found in blood thinners), blood pressure medication, steroids, and acne treatments. 

Medication can stimulate hair shedding by interfering with the hair growth cycle — usually in the telogen (resting) and anagen (growing) phases. 

- **Telogen Effluvium**: The more common type occurs when the drug causes the hair to enter the telogen phase. This leads to premature shedding over the course of a few months.
- **Anagen Effluvium**: A side effect of treatments like chemotherapy, this type of hair loss occurs much quicker (days to  weeks) and is more severe than telogen effluvium.

“Medications may decrease mitotic activity in rapidly dividing hair matrix cells (anagen effluvium) or put the follicles into a premature rest (telogen effluvium),” Dr. Linkov explains. “In anagen effluvium, hair loss usually occurs within days to weeks of taking the medication. In telogen effluvium, hair loss may begin several months after starting treatment.”

## **5. Stress**
Intense emotional or physical stress — whether it be from the pandemic, work, or rapid weight loss — can not only impact mental health but also physical well-being. Regardless of the trigger, stress can induce shedding or exacerbate hair loss. On average, people shed 100 to 150 strands a day. If you are experiencing high levels of stress and excessive shedding of more than 150 strands a day, be sure to consult with your doctor.

## **The Takeaway**
While men most commonly experience hair loss and balding as a result of genetic predisposition, there are other causes of both temporary and permanent shedding. Understanding the root cause of hair loss will ensure patients receive the best treatment for their condition. 

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Wellness Collection | The AEDITION

Wellness

Two-thirds of men in the U.S. experience hair loss by the age of 35. Here, two hair restoration experts break down the most common causes and treatment options.

Common Causes Of Hair Loss, Balding, Shedding In Men

5 Most Common Causes Of Hair Loss In Men

Director of Facial Plastic Surgery, University of Pennsylvania

Associate Professor of Clinical Otorhinolaryngology: Head and Neck Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine

Associate Professor, Division of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute 

Associate Clinical Professor, Division of Plastic Surgery, UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine

Director of Washington Square Dermatology

Assistant Professor of Dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

Facial Plastic Surgeon at Lasky Clinic

Associate Clinical Professor, Department of Head & Neck Surgery, USC Keck School of Medicine

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