Hair Loss Treatments for African Americans

How It Works

A hair transplant is the most effective way of minimizing the appearance of hair loss and promoting new hair growth. At Bosley, we offer two surgical procedures for hair transplants: follicular unit extraction (FUE) and follicular unit transplantation (FUT).  

Follicular Unit Extraction

An FUE hair transplant starts by removing individual hair follicles from the donor area by making small incisions to isolate the graft. Grafts are carefully extracted and prepared for transplantation. When ready to be implanted, small incisions are made to the recipient area and follicles are strategically inserted one-by-one based on the number of hairs in each follicle and the scalp’s natural growth pattern. 

Follicular Unit Transplantation

Another option when it comes to hair transplants for African American patients is the FUT transplant. We perform this type of transplant by removing a strip of tissue from the scalp that contains permanent hair follicles. The donor strip is then dissected into follicle groupings called units. When ready for transplantation, a tiny incision is made for each unit and the follicles are placed into the recipient site, strategically placed for natural-looking results and maximum coverage. 

Both FUT and FUE transplants are effective solutions for Black hair restoration. Schedule a consultation today to find out which transplant is right for you.

Why Bosley?

At Bosley, we’re proud to offer permanent African American hair transplant procedures to help people achieve their hair growth goals. We’ve performed over 400,000 hair transplant procedures with visible, long-lasting results. With nearly 50 years of experience and a deep dedication to using only the latest techniques and innovative technologies, we can help you achieve natural-looking results so you can look and feel your best. 

Learn more about the Bosley Difference and schedule your consultation today.  

African American Hair Transplant FAQs

Am I a Good Candidate for a Hair Transplant?

The two best options for African American hair transplant patients are FUE and FUT, but one may be better suited for your needs. Every person’s path to hair restoration is unique, which is why it’s important to schedule a consultation to determine which procedure is right for you.  Both options are great solutions for people suffering from pattern hair loss as well as traction alopecia.

The best candidates for a hair transplant are those suffering from androgenetic alopecia, also called pattern hair loss. It’s a good option for those who have lost hair along the top of the head but still have substantial hair in the back. People experiencing traction alopecia from extended periods of tight braids or weaves can also benefit from a hair transplant.

Because male pattern baldness is commonly associated with hair transplants, African American women may feel hesitant about scheduling a procedure. However, FUE and FUT are effective for restoration of both Black women’s and Black men’s hair. Transplant procedures can restore thinning hair, providing thicker, fuller hair density and natural growth for both men and women.      

For a successful African American transplant that leads to lasting results, it’s important that you have a sufficient amount of hair at the donor site. During your consultation, your physician will determine whether you’re a good candidate based on your needs, goals, and established hair loss pattern.    

What Can I Expect During the Recovery Process? 

When it comes to recovering from a hair transplant, FUE and FUT will both require some aftercare. 

You can expect the treatment area and donor site to feel slightly tight or tender the day after the procedure. You will be provided with bandages or a cap covering both the donor and recipient sites, and we encourage you to keep them in place for as long as recommended by your physician. 

After the procedure, we recommend avoiding direct sunlight. Ideally, you should wear a head covering when outside to avoid prolonged UV exposure. For the first few days, rest and avoid doing anything that might disturb the grafts. This can mean sleeping with your head elevated, avoiding strenuous exercise, and not washing your hair for a few days. In some cases, FUT patients may be encouraged to return the day after the procedure for professional hair washing and inspection of donor and recipient sites. 

Your physician will provide you with personalized instructions on how to care for both donor and recipient areas. You may also be prescribed medications for any discomfort or trouble sleeping. If you have questions about what you can and can’t do while recovering from a hair transplant, reach out to your physician for more information. 

While redness or swelling is rare, it will disappear in the first week following the procedure. After 1-2 weeks, the transplanted grafts will begin to shed. This is normal, as new hair is beginning to grow. Approximately three months after the procedure, you’ll begin seeing noticeable hair growth. 

Are There Non-Surgical Alternatives to African American Hair Transplants?

If you’re looking for non-surgical options for African American hair restoration, you can choose convenient and non-invasive options like low-level laser therapy. This option uses light wavelengths to stimulate blood circulation and cellular activity, which can help reduce thinning and promote new hair growth.  

One of the best non-surgical options in hair restoration for African American men is to turn to products that contain finasteride. BosleyRx® finasteride is a medication that can help prevent the transformation of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is often a leading cause of androgenetic alopecia hair loss. We offer finasteride, as well as minoxidil, which increases blood flow and circulation. When your scalp receives more blood flow, it receives more nutrients and oxygen, stimulating hair growth. 

If you’re not sure about which hair loss treatment is best suited for your needs, schedule a free consultation. Our hair restoration experts will provide personalized recommendations based on your needs and hair growth goals.  

How Do I Prepare for a Hair Transplant?

During your consultation, you’ll need to provide your full medical history, as well as a list of the medications you take. It may be recommended to stop taking any over-the-counter supplements or other medications, but be sure to speak to your doctor about whether you should stop taking blood thinners and any other prescription medications.  

In the days leading up to the procedure, we recommend moisturizing your scalp and massaging it for ten minutes a day to help increase blood flow to the area. This can make it easier for the transplants to settle. Additionally, avoid direct sunlight prior to the procedure by avoiding prolonged exposure or wearing a head covering.   

Have more questions? Contact us today or schedule a free consultation to learn more about what you can expect from a hair transplant procedure.