Heavy Baldness In My Family and I’m Already Thinning At 23…

To whom it may concern,
Thank you for maintaining this site; the information is valuable and welcomed.

Well, I am a 23 year old male. My father and his entire side of the family experience heavy baldness. My hair is definitely thinning.

My question: Rogaine, Propecia, hair transplants – these are the major treatment options I’m aware of (and to some extent, experimental laser treatment). With only the few short details I’ve given you, can you give me an educated guess as to which option or combination of options might suit me best? I’d love to hear your opinion on hair transplants for males in their mid-twenties with projected substantial hair loss.

Thank you so much

If the hair loss is early or just starting, simple drug use with Propecia (finasteride 1mg) is often the best approach to slow, stop, or reverse the hair loss. Propecia is a prescription medication, so you’ll need to meet with your doctor. I’m not convinced that the laser treatments actually are worth the time or money, and a hair transplant would likely not be an option for you yet, particularly because you haven’t been on any medication to treat your hair loss — a simple pill may eliminate your need for a surgery.

The first step in addressing your hair thinning problem is to have an examination by an expert doctor who can help you navigate the diagnosis and develop a Master Plan. This would include a miniaturization study. There is no substitute for a one-on-one consultation and examination to understand what you want and need. If you’re in California, I’d be glad to meet with you. If you’re looking for a doctor more local to you, I’d check the physician search at ISHRS.org to find a doctor in your area that specializes in hair loss.