Restoring Hereditary Hair Loss in London

Hereditary hair loss, also called androgenetic alopecia, is the most common cause of hair thinning in both men and women in the UK. It typically follows a predictable pattern, often beginning with recession at the temples in men or diffuse thinning along the parting in women. In men, the condition can progress to full crown baldness. In women, complete hair loss is rare, but the reduction in density can still be distressing. The British Association of Dermatologists estimates that around 50% of men over 50 are affected, while women may notice changes from their 30s onwards. The role of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a by-product of testosterone, is central to the pathogenesis. Hair follicles sensitive to DHT miniaturise over time, producing shorter, finer hairs until they eventually stop growing. While the condition is not life-threatening, the psychological burden can be profound, with many individuals reporting reduced confidence and social avoidance.

Medical Evaluation and Initial Steps

The first step in managing hereditary hair loss is to see your GP. While the pattern of loss often makes the diagnosis straightforward, a medical check-up helps rule out other causes such as thyroid dysfunction, anaemia, or polycystic ovary syndrome in women. Your GP can also assess whether your hair loss might be medication-related or linked to nutritional deficiencies. Blood tests are often useful at this stage.

If you're in Central London, here are three NHS GP surgeries where you can book an appointment:

• Parsons Green Health Centre, 5-7 Parsons Green, London SW6
• Hanley Primary Care Centre, 20 Hanley Rd, London N4
• Kings Cross Surgery, 264 Pentonville Rd, London N1

Once reversible causes are ruled out and androgenetic alopecia is confirmed, treatment options can be considered.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Medical treatment is more effective the earlier it begins. In men, finasteride (a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor) is commonly prescribed. It works by reducing serum DHT levels, thereby slowing follicular miniaturisation. A 5-year study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that 90% of men experienced either a reduction in hair loss or regrowth when taking finasteride daily. Topical minoxidil (2% or 5%) is approved for both men and women. It improves blood flow and prolongs the anagen phase of hair growth. Minoxidil can be bought without a prescription, but results vary, and continued use is necessary to maintain effects.

Side effects of finasteride depend on whether it is taken orally or applied topically, and may include reduced libido and, less commonly, mood changes. These effects reverse in most cases once the drug is stopped. Topical treatments may cause scalp irritation or unwanted hair growth on adjacent areas if applied improperly. Always discuss these therapies with a healthcare provider before starting.

Surgical Intervention: Hair Transplantation

For patients with significant hair loss or poor response to medical treatments, surgical restoration can be an effective solution. The most widely performed technique in the UK is Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE). In this method, individual follicular units are harvested from the back or sides of the scalp and implanted into thinning areas. Each graft typically contains 1–4 hairs, offering a natural and permanent result.

FUE is minimally invasive and performed under local anaesthetic. Recovery usually takes around a week. Patients often return to work within 5–7 days, with new hair growth visible from the third to fourth month post-op. The final results are seen at 12–18 months.

The National Institutes of Health provides a comprehensive review of this technique: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547740

Cost Considerations

Hair transplant costs in London depend on the number of grafts required and the surgeon’s experience. On average, you can expect to pay:

• Around £2,899 for up to 1,000 grafts
• £3,299 for up to 1,500 grafts
• £3,699 for up to 2,000 grafts
• £4,499 for up to 3,000 grafts
• £4,899 for up to 3,500 grafts

Prices usually include consultation, the procedure, and follow-up appointments. Some clinics may also offer Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy as an adjunct, but this is optional and priced separately.

Psychological Impact and Quality of Life

Hair loss is not only a cosmetic issue. Research has shown that men and women with androgenetic alopecia often suffer from poor body image, lower self-esteem, and increased social anxiety. A study in Dermatologic Surgery found significant psychological improvements following hair transplantation, especially in patients under 40. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38123846

Patients often report improved social confidence, professional engagement, and overall mood. If you’re struggling with the emotional impact of hair loss, it's worth discussing these concerns with your GP before deciding on surgery. In some cases, psychological support may also be helpful.

Hair restoration is a medical journey, not just a cosmetic choice. Begin by speaking with your GP and build a plan that fits your goals, health, and lifestyle.