Key Understanding
Transplanted hair is permanent. However, your native (non-transplanted) hair can still be affected by pattern baldness. Maintenance focuses on protecting both.
Why Maintenance Matters
Your transplanted follicles are genetically resistant to DHT (the hormone that causes pattern baldness) - that's why they're permanent. However, your existing native hair around the transplanted area can still thin over time.
Without maintenance, you may eventually have "islands" of transplanted hair surrounded by continued thinning. A comprehensive maintenance plan prevents this.
Medical Treatments
FDA-approved options to protect your results
Finasteride (Propecia)
- What it does: Blocks DHT production by ~70%
- Effectiveness: Stops hair loss in ~90% of men
- Dosage: 1mg daily (prescription required)
- For whom: Men with androgenetic alopecia
- Commitment: Must take continuously
Minoxidil (Rogaine)
- What it does: Stimulates hair follicles, extends growth phase
- How to use: Apply to scalp once or twice daily
- Forms: Liquid (5%) or foam
- Benefits: Can thicken existing hair, stimulate dormant follicles
- For whom: Both men and women
Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)
- • FDA-cleared devices for home use
- • May improve hair thickness and density
- • Best as adjunct to medication
- • Requires consistent use (several times weekly)
Lifestyle Factors
Support your hair from the inside out
Nutrition
- Protein: Hair is made of keratin (protein) - ensure adequate intake
- Iron: Deficiency linked to hair loss, especially in women
- Biotin: Supports keratin production
- Zinc: Important for hair tissue growth
- Vitamin D: Low levels associated with alopecia
Stress Management
Chronic stress can trigger telogen effluvium (temporary shedding).
- • Regular exercise
- • Meditation or relaxation
- • Adequate sleep (7-9 hours)
- • Work-life balance
Avoid Hair Damage
- • Limit heat styling (blow dryers, flat irons)
- • Avoid tight hairstyles that pull
- • Use gentle shampoos and conditioners
- • Protect scalp from excessive sun exposure
Scalp Care Routine
- • Wash 2-3 times per week with gentle hair-loss shampoo
- • Consider ketoconazole shampoo (2x weekly) for DHT reduction
- • Scalp massage to improve blood flow
- • Keep scalp clean but not over-stripped
When You Might Need More Work
Even with perfect maintenance, some patients eventually need additional procedures:
- Progressive loss: If native hair continues thinning significantly
- Density enhancement: Some desire greater density in transplanted area
- New areas: Hair loss may progress to new areas over time
- Typical timing: Second procedures often 5-10+ years after first
Maintenance Schedule
Your ongoing care routine
| Frequency | Action |
|---|---|
| Daily | Finasteride (if prescribed), minoxidil application |
| 2-3x Weekly | Wash with gentle shampoo, scalp massage |
| Weekly | Ketoconazole shampoo, LLLT (if using) |
| Annually | Check-in with surgeon, progress photos |
| As needed | Blood work for deficiencies, medication review |
Questions About Maintenance?
Consult with your surgeon or a hair loss specialist for a personalized maintenance plan.