Do You Have to Shave Your Head When Using Hair Loss Treatment?'

Name: Josh

Question: Could you tell me if I would need to shave my head before starting hair loss treatment for male pattern baldness?

Answer: Hi, Josh. The answer to your question is no - there is no need to shave your head, or even cut your hair, in order to start using male hair loss treatment.

There are two MHRA licensed and FDA approved treatments for Male Pattern Baldness, one of which is a tablet taken once a day (finasteride 1mg), the other is a topical medication - high strength minoxidil.

This is applied directly to the scalp via a dropper, so you can simply part your hair and drip the solution on. You can then slowly tilt your head backwards and from side to side in order to ensure the area is sufficiently covered.

Your hair loss specialist should be able to give you a full demonstration of this and provide additional information if you have any further queries about applying minoxidil. They can also give refresher demonstrations if you need them further down the line into your treatment course.

The application process can take a few goes to get the hang of, but Belgravia clients tell us they do this quickly and after that it tends to take them a minute or two each time.

There are a number of additional hair growth supporting products which can be used alongside either or both of these authorised medications. These include food supplements, such as Hair Vitalics for Men, which is a one-a-day tablet containing key nutrients, including biotin, zinc and selenium for the maintenance of healthy hair growth, and low-level laser therapy (LLLT).

LLLT is delivered to the scalp and the beams help to encourage healthy hair growth. Whilst there are a number of FDA-cleared delivery systems for LLLT, some devices shine the light onto the scalp through the hair. This is why Belgravia hair specialists tend to recommend the HairMax LaserComb and LaserBands as these models contain patented teeth which help to part the hair, making it easier for the lasers to get straight to the scalp.

If you have any queries or concerns regarding which is the best hair loss treatment for you, regardless of your current hairstyle, a consultation with a dedicated hair specialist should be helpful, whether in person or online.