Beauty
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What Are the Different Ways to Fix a Hairline?

Nya Bruce
Nya Bruce

Hair loss is a problem that can affect both men and women, and it often has the most negative impact on appearance when it occurs along the hairline. Other problems, such as a poor haircut, may also negatively affect the appearance of hair along this area. There are different ways to fix a hairline, such as medication, hair weaves, surgery, or simply leaving the hair to grow back naturally. The decision of which method to use depends partially on the cause of the problem.

Before attempting to fix a hairline, it is important to identify what is causing the problem. Hair loss can be the result of any number of factors, including stress, poor diet or serious illness. Androgenetic alopecia is known as pattern baldness and can occur in both men and women; it is hereditary in nature. A receding hairline is a common trait in male pattern baldness. Certain types of hairstyles, such as braids or ponytails that are worn often and overly tight may also contribute to a type of hair loss called traction alopecia. People experiencing a diminishing hairline should visit a doctor who can accurately diagnose the cause.

A man with a receding hairline.
A man with a receding hairline.

Medication may be useful in helping to fix a hairline that has begun to recede or that has areas of loss or thinning. Minoxidil is a type of hair loss medicine that is sold both in topical or foam form over-the-counter, and may encourage hair growth for both men and women. Finasteride is another hair loss medication that is approved for use by men, but should not be used by women, particularly those of childbearing age. Corticosteroid injections may also be helpful in growing hair along the hairline.

Women should not use shampoo with finasteride due to a risk for birth defects.
Women should not use shampoo with finasteride due to a risk for birth defects.

Surgery is an option to fix a hairline that has excessive thinning or lost hair. Careful consideration and consultation with an experienced surgeon is typically the first step prior to taking this measure, due to the risk of scarring. Scalp reduction is a procedure that allows hairline lowering by removing a portion of the scalp where hair no longer grows. The scalp with good hair growth is then pulled down to create a new hairline. Hair transplantation is another type of surgery and involves removing plugs of hair from less visible areas and moving them to problematic locations along the hairline. In certain situations, these two options may be combined if necessary to create a hairline that appears more natural.

Baldness can be reduced by transplanting hair from different areas of the head.
Baldness can be reduced by transplanting hair from different areas of the head.

Not all hairline problems are the result of hair loss and may not require drastic measures to fix. Hair cuts done with the improper use of hair clippers can reduce or remove sections of a person's hairline. Allowing the hair to grow back naturally is the only step necessary to fix a hairline that is altered by a bad cut. In the interim, wearing hair extensions can help to conceal the irregularity. Clip-on hair extensions can be attached to normal sections of hair above the area of hair loss or thinning. Weaves that do not pull or attach directly to the damaged area are also an option.

Discussion Comments

Heavanet

Sometimes when someone doesn't like the way his or her hairline looks, there is a simple solution to fix it. The answer may be styling it in a different way, or seeking the help of a hair stylist to get the best cut to conceal the issue.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • A man with a receding hairline.
      A man with a receding hairline.
    • Women should not use shampoo with finasteride due to a risk for birth defects.
      By: Barabas Attila
      Women should not use shampoo with finasteride due to a risk for birth defects.
    • Baldness can be reduced by transplanting hair from different areas of the head.
      By: vasilisa_k
      Baldness can be reduced by transplanting hair from different areas of the head.