FAQ

Have questions about hair restoration in Irvine? You are in the right place. Below you will find answers to the most common questions Irvine homeowners ask about hair restoration. If you do not see your question here, call (555) 555-0100 to speak with a matching specialist who can help.

How many grafts do I need?

It depends on your hair loss pattern and goals. Minor hairline restoration may need 1,000-1,500 grafts. Moderate crown and hairline coverage typically requires 2,000-3,000 grafts. Extensive coverage may need 3,000+ grafts across multiple sessions.

Is a hair transplant permanent?

Transplanted follicles are typically resistant to DHT (the hormone that causes hair loss) and should grow permanently. However, existing non-transplanted hair may continue to thin over time. Some patients choose a second procedure years later if further loss occurs.

Does it hurt?

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia. Most patients report minimal discomfort during the procedure and mild soreness for 1-2 days after. Pain is generally well-managed with over-the-counter medication.

When will I see results?

Transplanted hair sheds at 2-4 weeks (normal process). New growth begins at 3-4 months. Noticeable improvement by 6-8 months. Full results at 12-18 months.

What is the first thing to know about hair loss treatments?

The primary role is the stabilization of follicular miniaturization. By intervening pharmacologically, we address the underlying androgenetic triggers, ensuring that the patient maintains existing hair density which serv

Will I shed more hair when I start treatment?

Initiating treatment often triggers an induction of telogen effluvium, where miniaturized hairs are released to allow the follicle to reset. Strategically, this indicates the medication is effectively synchronizing the h

How do finasteride and dutasteride differ?

Finasteride is a Type II 5-alpha reductase inhibitor, whereas Dutasteride is a dual-type (Type I and II) inhibitor. In a clinical setting, Dutasteride provides a more potent suppression of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), ofte

Does PRP actually grow hair?

This is the "Density vs. Thickness Catch." Regenerative therapies often focus on miniaturization reversal, increasing the caliber (diameter) of existing hairs. While the number of hairs (density) stays the same, the incr

Do over-the-counter supplements like biotin work?

Mostly no. Biotin has no RCT evidence for hair growth in healthy people — it only helps those with a diagnosed deficiency, and high doses can distort lab tests. The natural ingredients with real data are rosemary oil (one strong RCT vs 2% minoxidil) and saw palmetto (systematic review + 180-day trial).

Can SMP cover a hair transplant scar?

SMP "fills" the void of linear or FUE-harvest scars with pigment, allowing the scar to blend into the surrounding hair and enabling the patient to wear their hair much shorter without visible surgical marks.

What is the difference between 2% and 5% minoxidil?

Both extend the anagen phase by vasodilation. 5% delivers higher hair density gains and is the standard for men; 2% is gentler and common in women's protocols. The trade-off: 5% carries a higher rate of scalp irritation and contact dermatitis.

What is the 'shedding timeline' and why does it happen?

How does low-level laser therapy (LLLT) work?

LLLT uses 635–655 nm red light that penetrates to the follicular bulge and dermal papilla. The light triggers photodissociation of inhibitory nitric oxide from cytochrome c oxidase, which unblocks cellular respiration and drives a surge in ATP production — fueling follicle activity without thermal damage.

What did the HairMax lasercomb trials actually show?

In multicenter sham-controlled trials at 26 weeks: 9-beam women +20.2 hairs/cm² vs +2.8 sham; 12-beam women +20.6 vs +3.0; 7-beam men +18.4 vs +1.6; 9/12-beam men +20.9–25.7 vs +9.4. Real, measurable results — with consistent use.

Do lasercombs or LLLT helmets work better?

Helmet systems are strategically superior due to their "hands-free" nature, ensuring uniform scalp coverage and a consistent energy dose. Lasercombs often suffer from "user fatigue" and inconsistent application, leading

Why doesn't PRP improve hair thickness?

Without a standard for platelet concentration (e.g., 5x over baseline), results are highly variable. This lack of standardization places the burden on the clinician to provide transparent data and manage patient expectat

What is scalp mesotherapy and does it work?

Yes, FUE can transplant follicles into scar tissue to camouflage surgical defects or damage from previous interventions, though graft survival rates are typically lower in fibrotic tissue compared to healthy scalps.

Are artificial hair implants safe?

It is the controlled reduction of scalp temperature before, during, and after chemotherapy to mitigate or prevent chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA).

How does scalp cooling prevent chemo hair loss?

, which restricts the amount of chemotherapy delivered to the follicles. Second, the cold reduces the metabolic rate of follicle cells, making them less susceptible to the effects of the drugs.

Does Medicare cover scalp cooling in 2026?

Some SMP pigments contain metallic oxides. During an MRI, these metals can react to the magnetic field, causing localized burning or artifacts on the scan. Patients must be informed of this risk and should choose carbon-

Is SMP safe?

SMP deposits pigment in the dermis with fine needles — shallower than a traditional tattoo. Risks: infection from unsterile equipment (HIV, hepatitis), rare pigment reactions, granulomas, keloids (avoid if keloid-prone), and possible MRI interference. Always verify sterile single-use needles and ink.

Can I use HSA/FSA dollars for hair treatments?

from their clinician, stating that the treatment (like scalp cooling or LLLT) is being used to treat a specific medical condition (like CIA or androgenetic alopecia). This documentation is required for reimbursement and

What is the estimated cost of SMP?

If the pigment is too shallow, it will shed during the skin’s natural exfoliation. If it is too deep (into the hypodermis), the pigment will "blow out" or migrate, resulting in an unnatural, blurred blue-green appearance

What patient-assistance programs exist for scalp cooling?

offer a strategic safety net. By providing financial aid for low-income families and information on resources, these programs ensure that high-cost clinical treatments are not restricted to the wealthy, thereby increasin