Legally speaking, anyone over 18 years of age with a distinct hair loss pattern can undergo a hair transplant operation. Though, is there an ideal age? Many people who experience hair loss report a reduction in their self-confidence. That’s why they start seeking treatment options suitable for them. Still, before going in for an operation, the patient’s need to assess their situation well.

In most cases, if a young person is starting to experience hair loss, it will not be very noticeable. Let’s say a 21 years old patient with 25% to 40% hair loss should consider other management treatment options. 

Management Treatment Options

Management treatments include minoxidil and finasteride. Younger patients can use minoxidil after around 18 years of age if they see fit. But, save up finasteride for later as it can disrupt your hormonal balance when you take it before 21. Also, though it has the approval of the FDA of US, finasteride can cause serious side effects in some people. Some of these side effects may even be permanent. Nevertheless, these side effects affect less than .5% of users, and often they are only temporary side effects. So they cease after the patient stops taking the medication. 

When compared to finasteride, minoxidil poses less risk of side effects. Minoxidil works by dilating veins around the hair follicles and thus improving circulation. So it does not work by manipulating anything about your hormones. 

Though, in rare cases, people at or below the age of 21 may experience up to 80% hair loss. This is a relatively rare occurrence, but it still happens. If this is the case with the patients, doctors will probably recommend hair transplantation operation. Yet, nearly every doctor will warn you that you will most likely need another operation a few years after. Sometimes even a third operation becomes necessary. 

Conclusion

All in all, if you happen to have lost a considerable amount of hair at a relatively young age, it can sometimes be better to wait until the hair loss pattern settles a bit more. Our doctors can give you a comprehensive explanation of your options and possible pathways. 

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