Hair texture can be a defining characteristic that can greatly influence our appearance and how we care for it. A common question many wonder is: Can you change your hair texture with a hair transplant? In short, no. A standard hair transplant using your own scalp hair will not significantly alter the texture. However, hair from other sources like beard or body hair can offer some degree of texture variation.
In this article, let’s explore the relationship between hair transplants and hair texture to better understand the possibilities and limitations of hair texture in transplants.
What Are the Main Hair Types?
Hair can be classified according to curl pattern, volume, and overall texture. The Andre Walker Hair Typing System classifies hair into four main categories depending on type and texture. Each category also has its own subcategories. Let’s take a look at the categories in more detail:
Type 1: Straight Hair
Straight hair has no natural curl or waves. It is further divided into three subcategories:
- 1A: Really fine, and soft hair that struggles to hold volume or curls.
- 1B: Medium-textured hair with slightly more body and fullness.
- 1C: Coarse, thick, and straight hair that is more resistant to styling.
Type 2: Wavy Hair
Wavy hair is a balance between straight and curly textures. It is divided into:
- 2A: long, loose waves that can be easily styled.
- 2B: More defined waves prone to frizz.
- 2C: Thick, coarse waves that may form ringlets.
Type 3: Curly Hair
Curly hair holds a more distinct curl pattern prone to dryness. It is further categorized into:
- 3A: Large, loose curls that have a soft texture.
- 3B: More defined curls with more volume and medium coarse texture.
- 3C: Tight curls with volume and shrinkage.
Type 4: Kinky or Coiled Hair
This hair type is characterized by tight coils or zigzag patterns.It includes:
- 4A: Soft, defined coils that form an “S” shape when stretched.
- 4B: Tighter, zigzag-shaped curls with a cotton-like texture.
- 4C: The tightest, packed coils with minimal definition.
Is It Possible to Change Your Hair Type?
Chemical treatments and styling tools can temporarily change the texture of your hair. However, it is not permanent. The treatments can not change your hair structure at a molecular level. That is because the natural hair type is genetics dependent.
By way of the DNA you inherit from your parents, you also inherit your hair type. So your genetic code determines the texture of your hair. It also affects other characteristics such as thickness, density, and coarseness.
However, depending on your donor site, there may be minor alterations in the texture of the transplanted hair. Hair from the beard, chest, or other regions has rougher or curlier traits. So a transplant with this donor hair can differ slightly from the original scalp hair. Additionally, hair transplant costs can vary based on the technique and the number of grafts required. However, clinics like Cosmedica offer such techniques at an affordable price.
What Causes Hair Texture to Change?
Several factors can lead to changes in hair texture: Let’s take a look at some of them:
Can Age Impact Your Hair Texture?
As we age, our hair ages with us. Hair follicles become finer, drier, or lose elasticity. Aging decreases our cell turnover and decreases sebum production. Moreover, the curl patterns can diminish overtime and hair feels less dense, leading to male or female pattern baldness.
Can Hormones Affect Your Hair Texture?
Hormonal changes at all stages of life can significantly impact your hair texture. Puberty, pregnancy, menopause, stress, etc. can lead to hormone fluctuations. While estrogen prolongs the growth phase and frequently results in thicker, wavier hair, testosterone can decrease hair follicles, making hair finer and straighter.
Are Chemical Changes to Hair Texture Permanent?
Chemical treatments temporarily alter hair texture as they restructure the protein bonds of hair. However, these treatments are not permanent. As your hair grows, it reverts to its natural texture.
Can a Hair Transplant Change Hair Texture?
A common question is, can you change your hair texture with a hair transplant, since donor hair determines texture, the results will match the original hair type. During a hair transplant procedure, a surgeon relocates follicular units from a donor area to the recipient area. The transplanted hair grafts retain the characteristics of their donor site. So, the hair growth rate is consistent with the original location.
For example, if you have straight hair, your transplanted hair will also be straight. If you have naturally curly hair, transplant hair will also be curly. A hair restoration surgery can not change the genetic coding that determines hair texture. However, clinics like Cosmedica can make sure of precise transplantation methods. You have to look no further than the before and after photos on the Cosmedica hair transplant before and after page to find real pictures of hair transplant success stories.
Are All Hair Textures Suitable for Hair Transplant?
Yes, hair transplants are suitable for a variety of hair textures. However, different hair types require different approaches:
Curly or Kinky Hair
Curly hair requires more specialized techniques. A hair transplant surgeon has to consider the curl pattern to mesh the transplanted hair with the natural hair.
Fine or Straight Hair
Straight hair usually lays flat and blends well with the existing hair. It is therefore easier to transplant. It can also come from various donor sites, therefore ensuring a good match with the recipient area.
Advanced Hair Transplant Techniques at Cosmedica Clinic
Can you change your hair texture with a hair transplant? The answer is no. A hair transplant in Turkey can restore lost hair, but it cannot alter your natural hair texture. The transplanted hair will start to grow following the characteristics of the donor hair.
So, if you are looking for a significant change in your hair type, a hair transplant might not be the best way to go. However, regardless of your hair loss type or hair texture, Cosmedica Clinic in Turkey offers high-quality, affordable hair restoration options. You can schedule a free consultation to learn more about your hair type and the procedure that is best suited for you today!
