I Think I’m Too Young for a Hair Transplant, So I Want to Use a Hairpiece Until I’m Old Enough

Hello NHI physicians,

I’m thinking about getting a hair transplant in the future, but at the moment I think I’m a bit too young for one (under 25). I have diffuse MPB on the crown (it’s quite severe), and am thinking about shaving the top off and using a hair piece/hair system until I reach the age when the MPB is more stable.

My question is, would the glue or bonding method from using a hair piece damage my scalp in any way that would prevent me from getting a hair transplant in the future?

I appreciate all the information you all have provided on this site.

Glues, tapes, and even clips are methods used to hold down the hairpiece to the scalp, which can cause even more hair loss. These will likely not prevent you from getting a hair transplant in the future, but you’re running a huge risk of causing yourself more trouble with hair loss. Weaves also cause traction alopecia. There is really no way around this. The decision to go with a hairpiece is a more common decision than those that want hair transplants, possibly because of the perceived cost difference and/or the fear of a surgical procedure. The choice may be a very expensive one, however, as the 5 year cost for a hair system can run well over $15,000. See My Hair System Cost Me Over $16,000 In 5 Years! for a breakdown, as sent in by a patient.

If you are losing your hair from MPB, be sure to also consider finasteride. This is a prescription medication and requires you to meet with a doctor.