If you have a subscription to the streaming service Netflix, then you’ve probably watched at least a few episodes of the hit NBC sitcom “The Office.” At the very least, you’re familiar with the television series that launched lead actor Steve Carell’s career. Carell’s character, “Michael Scott”—-the bumbling regional manager of a small paper company—-underwent a makeover from the first season to the second: the magic of makeup restored his receding, thinning hairline to one that was thicker and fuller. According to the show’s co-executive producer Paul Fieg (best known for directing comedy hits like “Bridesmaids” and “Spy”), the producers wanted Michael Scott to better appeal to viewers so that they’d “root” for him—-and the showrunners communicated a less odious and more winsome version of the character simply by restoring the actor’s hairline. 

The results were extremely positive: as Paul Fieg later recounted, this new and improved look allowed the actor’s natural charm and attractiveness to shine through, making the character much more “lovable.” But, what do you do if you’re experiencing real-life hair loss, without an on-call hair and makeup team to help? Read on for some options for hair restoration and improved hair growth that’ll leave you feeling confident, self-assured, and ready to take on any challenges that are foolish enough to face you.

You’re Not Alone

If you’re like 75% of perfectly healthy men (and 25% of perfectly healthy women), you might be experiencing some hair loss, balding, or thinning. Hair loss is the term used to describe the decrease in the total number of hairs actually attached to the scalp, while hair thinning describes an overall decrease in hair mass. Hair loss can progress to a permanent loss of all hair at the top of the crown, while hair thinning results in fewer, smaller and weaker hair follicles along the hairline or other portions of the scalp.

Time for a Change: Some Options for Hair Restoration

When you’re worried that you might be losing your hair, you might be exceptionally vulnerable, and susceptible to dubious companies offering a “quick fix.” Remember that the hair-loss industry can play on these insecurities, and do your research on which treatments offer measurable permanent results.

  • Non-surgical restoration: tried and true products can increase blood flow to the locations of thinning hair on the scalp to fortify remaining healthy hair follicles while reviving the dormant ones. Products containing minoxidil, such as “Rogaine,” increase that blood flow chemically. For those unwilling to spend the money for the necessary several years’ worth of supply, exercise and daily scalp massages might offer a similar benefit, with far less measurable results. 
  • FUT Transplant: an older surgical method that involves removing entire sections of hair from the back of the scalp and onto the afflicted area. Imagine an entire forest being lifted off of the ground and then planted elsewhere.
  • FUE: or “Follicular Unit Extraction,” is a surgery involving removing individual healthy follicles from the side or back of the head and planting them where you want them to take root and grow. Instead of a whole forest, Imagine transplanting individual trees—-and moving them one by one—-instead of by sections.

Crossing the Goal Line

Hair loss is perfectly natural, and nothing to be ashamed of. However, if you feel like someone who needs a good strong hairline to allow your confidence, vibrancy, and charm to shine through, then restoration has never been more effective, more affordable, or more possible. Contact Barr Aesthetics for a consultation today.