Noticing that your hair is getting thinner can be worrying. You may have started seeing more of your scalp, noticed your hairline changing, or realised that your hair no longer looks as full as it used to.
And one of the first questions that usually comes to mind is simple: “What should I do?”
The good news is that you don’t necessarily need to make a decision right away. The first step is to understand what may be happening with your hair, what options are available, and which approach may be suitable for your situation.
At Pro Aesthetics in Bristol, we help men experiencing hair loss and thinning explore non-surgical hair restoration options such as PRP and scalp micropigmentation (SMP).
Why Is My Hair Getting Thinner?
Hair can become thinner for several different reasons. For many men, gradual thinning is associated with male pattern hair loss, but there can be other causes too.
Some common reasons include:
- Male pattern hair loss
- Age-related changes
- Changes in the hair growth cycle
- Temporary periods of increased shedding
- Certain medical or nutritional factors
- Hereditary hair loss
The pattern and speed of hair loss can vary considerably from one person to another.
If your hair has suddenly started falling out or you’ve noticed significant changes over a short period, it’s worth speaking to an appropriate healthcare professional to understand the possible cause before deciding on a cosmetic hair restoration treatment.
How Do I Know If My Hair Is Actually Thinning?
It isn’t always easy to tell.
You might look in the mirror every day and gradually get used to small changes. Some men only notice their thinning hair when they see an older photograph or when the lighting makes their scalp more visible.
Some signs to look out for include:
- Your hairline appears to be moving backwards
- Your crown is becoming more visible
- Your hair looks thinner or flatter than it used to
- Individual hairs appear finer
- More of your scalp can be seen through your hair
- Your usual hairstyle no longer gives you the same coverage
- You notice a difference between recent and older photographs
It’s also possible to mistake normal changes in your hair for hair loss. Hair can look different depending on its length, styling, lighting and whether it is wet or dry.
If you’re unsure, comparing photographs taken over time can sometimes help you understand whether there has been a gradual change.
What Should I Do If My Hair Is Thinning?
If you’ve noticed your hair becoming thinner, you don’t have to jump straight into treatment.
A sensible first step is to understand what’s happening and consider what you want to achieve.
You may want to:
- Understand the possible cause of your hair loss.
- Monitor changes over time if the situation is unclear.
- Speak to an appropriate healthcare professional if you’re concerned about sudden or significant hair loss.
- Research the different hair restoration options available.
- Consider what outcome you actually want from treatment.
For some men, the priority may be supporting existing hair. For others, the main concern may be the appearance of thinning or a receding hairline.
That’s important because different treatments have different purposes.
What Are the Options for Thinning Hair?
There isn’t one solution that is right for every man experiencing hair loss.
Depending on your situation, options you may come across include medication, hair transplantation, PRP and scalp micropigmentation.
Hair-loss medication
Some men explore medication to help manage certain forms of hair loss.
Medication isn’t suitable for everyone, and you should discuss whether a particular medication is appropriate with a qualified healthcare professional.
Hair transplant
A hair transplant is a surgical procedure that moves hair follicles from one area of the scalp to another.
It is different from non-surgical hair restoration treatments such as PRP and SMP.
A transplant may be considered by some men depending on their pattern of hair loss, available donor hair and individual goals.
PRP hair restoration
PRP stands for platelet-rich plasma.
PRP treatment involves taking a sample of your blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets and then using the resulting plasma as part of a treatment for the scalp.
PRP is generally considered as a treatment aimed at supporting hair-related outcomes rather than creating the appearance of hair where there is none.
Whether PRP is appropriate depends on factors such as your type and pattern of hair loss, existing hair and expectations.
Scalp micropigmentation (SMP)
Scalp micropigmentation is a non-surgical cosmetic treatment that uses carefully placed pigment to replicate the appearance of hair follicles.
It can be used to create the appearance of greater density, define a hairline or give the appearance of closely shaved hair.
SMP doesn’t grow new hair. Instead, it focuses on changing the visual appearance of the scalp and hair.
For men who are concerned about visible thinning, this can be an option worth exploring.
Monitoring your hair loss
Doing nothing immediately is also an option.
If you’re unsure about treatment, taking time to understand your hair loss and explore your options can help you make a more informed decision.
What Is PRP Hair Restoration?
PRP hair restoration is a non-surgical treatment that uses platelet-rich plasma derived from your own blood.
The aim is to use the concentrated plasma as part of a treatment approach for the scalp and existing hair.
One important thing to understand is that PRP isn’t a guaranteed solution for every type of hair loss. Results can vary between individuals, and suitability depends on your circumstances.
If you’re considering PRP, a consultation can help you understand what the treatment involves and whether it may be appropriate for your hair-loss pattern and goals.
What Is Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP)?
Scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is a non-surgical cosmetic treatment designed to create the appearance of hair follicles on the scalp.
For men experiencing hair loss or thinning, SMP for men can help create the appearance of greater hair density, define a receding hairline or replicate the look of closely shaved hair.
Rather than growing new hair, SMP uses carefully placed pigment to change the visual appearance of the scalp and hair.
Depending on the individual’s hair and desired result, SMP may be used for:
- Thinning hair
- Receding hairlines
- Crown thinning
- More visible areas of scalp
- The appearance of hair-transplant scars
- Creating the appearance of a closely shaved hairstyle
Is SMP suitable for men with thinning hair?
SMP can be an option for men who are concerned about the appearance of thinning hair. It can help reduce the visual contrast between the scalp and existing hair, making areas of thinning appear less noticeable.
One of the biggest concerns men have when researching SMP for men is whether the result will look natural.
A natural-looking result depends on factors such as hairline design, pigment choice, placement, density and the individual’s existing hair and scalp.
This is why choosing an experienced practitioner and discussing your expectations beforehand is important.
PRP or SMP: Which Is Right for Me?
PRP and SMP are very different treatments, so it’s not simply a case of choosing whichever one is “better”.
The right option depends on what you’re trying to achieve.
|
PRP |
SMP |
| Uses platelet-rich plasma | Uses carefully applied scalp pigment |
| Aims to support hair-related outcomes | Aims to change the appearance of the scalp |
| Works with existing hair/scalp | Creates the appearance of hair follicles |
| May be considered for certain types of thinning | Can be considered for visible thinning and other forms of hair loss |
| Results vary between individuals | Results depend on treatment design, technique and individual factors |
In some cases, PRP and SMP may also be considered as complementary treatments, depending on the individual’s circumstances.
The important thing is to understand what each treatment is designed to do before deciding.
Why Does Treatment Suitability Vary From Person to Person?
Two men can experience hair loss but have completely different treatment needs.
Factors that may influence the suitability of a treatment include:
- The type and pattern of hair loss
- How much existing hair you have
- The condition of your scalp
- Your hairline
- The amount of visible thinning
- Whether your hair loss is continuing
- Previous treatments
- Your desired appearance
- Your expectations
This is why there isn’t one treatment that can be recommended for every man experiencing hair loss.
A good consultation should be about understanding your situation and discussing realistic options rather than simply deciding on a treatment immediately.
What Results Can I Realistically Expect?
It’s natural to want to know whether a treatment will work before committing to it.
However, it’s important to be realistic about what hair restoration treatments can achieve.
PRP and SMP have different purposes, and neither should be viewed as a guaranteed solution for every form of hair loss.
With SMP in particular, the goal is not necessarily to make you look as though you have the same hair density you had when you were younger. The goal may instead be to create a natural-looking appearance that works with your existing hair, hairline and overall appearance.
Results can vary, which is why expectations should be discussed before treatment.
If you’re considering any hair restoration treatment, ask:
- What is this treatment designed to achieve?
- Is it suitable for my type of hair loss?
- What results are realistic for me?
- How many sessions might I need?
- What happens if my hair loss continues?
- What are the potential limitations?
Good information should help you make a decision with realistic expectations.
When Should I Speak to a Hair Restoration Specialist?
You don’t have to wait until you’re significantly bald before asking about your options.
It may be worth seeking advice if:
- You’ve noticed ongoing thinning
- Your hairline is gradually receding
- Your crown is becoming more visible
- You’re unhappy with how your hair looks
- You’ve tried other approaches without getting the result you wanted
- You’re considering PRP or SMP
- You’re unsure which treatment may be suitable
If your hair loss is sudden, severe or accompanied by other symptoms, speak with an appropriate healthcare professional to investigate possible underlying causes.
For gradual hair loss where your main concern is the appearance of thinning, a consultation with a hair restoration specialist can help you understand the cosmetic options available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Thinning Hair
Can thinning hair grow back?
It depends on the cause of the thinning. Some types of hair shedding may be temporary, while other forms of hair loss can be progressive. Understanding the possible cause is an important first step.
How do I know if I’m going bald?
A receding hairline, increasing visibility of the crown and reduced hair density can all be signs of hair loss. However, changes in hair can have different causes, so persistent or concerning changes are worth discussing with an appropriate professional.
Can thinning hair look thicker?
There are cosmetic approaches that can change the appearance of thinning hair. SMP, for example, can create the appearance of greater density by reducing the visual contrast between the scalp and hair.
Is PRP suitable for men with thinning hair?
PRP may be considered for certain types of hair thinning, but suitability varies from person to person. A consultation can help determine whether it is an appropriate option for your circumstances.
Can SMP make thinning hair look fuller?
SMP can create the visual impression of greater density by adding the appearance of hair follicles to areas where the scalp is visible. It does not create new hair.
Does SMP look natural?
SMP can look natural when it is appropriately designed and applied for the individual. Factors such as hairline design, pigment selection, density and practitioner technique can influence the result.
How long does SMP last?
SMP is considered a long-lasting cosmetic treatment, but its appearance can change over time. Factors such as skin type, sun exposure, lifestyle and the treatment itself can affect longevity.
Should I choose PRP or SMP?
That depends on your type of hair loss and what you want to achieve. PRP and SMP have different purposes, so a consultation can help you understand which option may be more appropriate.
Should I get a hair transplant instead?
A hair transplant is a surgical treatment and is different from PRP or SMP. Whether it is appropriate depends on factors including your pattern of hair loss, donor hair and goals. If you’re considering a transplant, discuss your options with a suitably qualified hair-transplant professional.
What should I do if I’m worried about hair loss?
Start by understanding what’s happening. If you’re unsure about the cause, speak to an appropriate healthcare professional. If your main concern is the appearance of gradual thinning, you can then explore hair restoration options and decide whether a consultation would be useful.
Thinking About Your Options? Start With a Consultation
If you’re experiencing hair loss or thinning and aren’t sure what to do next, you don’t have to decide on a treatment straight away.
At Pro Aesthetics in Bristol, we help men explore non-surgical hair restoration options including PRP and scalp micropigmentation (SMP).
A consultation gives you the opportunity to discuss your hair loss, what you’d like to achieve and whether a treatment may be suitable for you.
The goal isn’t simply to choose a treatment. It’s to understand your options and make a decision based on realistic expectations and what is right for you.
