Hair transplantation offers a solution for individuals experiencing hair loss by relocating hair follicles from one part of the body to another. Using beard hair for scalp transplantation is a viable option for hair restoration, particularly when traditional donor areas on the scalp have limited hair supply.
The Feasibility and Its Basis
Transplanting beard hair to the head is an effective method in hair restoration. Donor dominance means transplanted hair retains its original characteristics regardless of its new location. This biological compatibility allows beard hair follicles to thrive on the scalp.
Beard hair is a suitable donor source when the hair supply from the back and sides of the scalp, which are resistant to balding, is insufficient. This expanded donor supply benefits individuals with extensive hair loss. Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) has facilitated the use of non-scalp hair, including beard hair, for transplantation.
Distinctive Qualities of Beard Hair
Beard hair has unique characteristics that differentiate it from scalp hair, impacting the aesthetic outcome when transplanted. Beard hair is thicker, with a cross-sectional area 70-100% larger than scalp hair. This increased caliber contributes to greater volume in the transplanted area.
The growth cycle of beard hair also differs, with a longer anagen (active growth) phase compared to other body hairs, making it more akin to scalp hair. Beard hairs grow as single follicular units, though occasionally, two-hair groupings may be present in denser beards. While beard hair can be coarser and sometimes curlier than scalp hair, these qualities require careful consideration during transplantation to ensure a natural blend.
The Transplantation Procedure
The process of transplanting beard hair to the scalp uses the Follicular Unit Excision (FUE) method. This technique involves individually extracting hair follicles from the donor area, typically under the chin. The beard area is prepared, often by shaving, and a local anesthetic is administered for comfort during the procedure.
Once individual follicular units are harvested using a micro-punch tool, they are prepared. Simultaneously, tiny incisions, also known as recipient sites, are created on the scalp where hair loss has occurred. These slits are made to match the size of the extracted hair roots and are angled to mimic natural hair growth patterns. The prepared beard hair follicles are then implanted into these recipient sites for a natural-looking result.
What to Expect Post-Procedure
Following a beard-to-head hair transplant, patients can expect an initial healing phase with mild swelling, redness, and small scabs in both donor and recipient areas. These symptoms typically subside within a week. Within the first one to two weeks, “shock loss” occurs, where newly transplanted hair shafts temporarily fall out as follicles enter a resting phase.
Visible hair growth begins between three to five months post-procedure, with initial hairs appearing finer and lighter. Over subsequent months, these new hairs gradually thicken and darken, integrating with surrounding natural hair. Full results are usually evident between 9 to 12 months, though some patients may see continued thickening up to 14-15 months. Post-operative care involves gentle cleansing and avoiding harsh grooming practices to protect the newly forming hair and ensure long-term success.