.svg)
.png)
.png)
Surgeon-Led Specialist Clinic
Led by plastic surgeon Dr. Ayad Harb, we pride ourselves on the standard of care, quality and safety of our treatments.
Central Clinic Locations
SRGN has three state of the art clinic locations in Central London, Bicester & Ascot.
Care Quality Commission
We're regulated by the independent regulator of health and social care in England.
GMC Registered Surgeons
All of our surgeons are registered with the General Medical Council.
Medically Reviewed April 2023, by Dr. Ayad Harb, one of the world's leading plastic surgeons
A beard, for many men, is not just facial hair; it represents a symbol of masculinity, ruggedness, and even wisdom. Its thickness, texture, and growth pattern can influence how a man perceives himself and how others perceive him. For some, a beard is a statement of style; for others, it's a reflection of maturity. Yet, not every man finds the process of growing a beard a straightforward one. The challenge often faced is the patchy beard growth, where the lush promise of a full beard is marred by uneven, unpredictable patches.
Understanding the origins of this patchy growth starts with delving deeper into the science of hair growth. At the forefront of this science is the role played by certain hormones, notably testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT). It is these hormones that dictate how, where, and how much facial hair a man grows. While higher levels of these hormones are typically associated with denser facial hair, the story isn't quite so linear. It's not solely about the quantity of these hormones in a man's system. The sensitivity of hair follicles to these hormones is a game-changer. Certain follicles may resist the effects of testosterone and DHT, leading to lesser growth in specific areas compared to others.
But beyond hormones, genetics casts its long, ancestral shadow. Family lineage can often hint at beard growth patterns. If one's grandfather or father had a patchy beard, there is a likelihood of experiencing a similar pattern. However, genes are not puppeteers with absolute control. They provide a blueprint, yes, but external factors can influence the final outcome.
Lifestyle, daily habits, and environmental factors come into play. A high-stress life, for instance, isn't just detrimental to one's mental health; it wreaks havoc on physical attributes, including beard growth. Chronic stress can skew hormone levels, disturb sleep patterns, and lead to habits that aren't conducive to optimal health, all of which can impact the robustness and pattern of beard growth. Similarly, poor nutritional habits can starve the hair of essential nutrients. Hair, like any part of the body, requires a balanced intake of vitamins, minerals, and proteins. A diet lacking these elements can lead to weakened hair structures, reduced growth speed, and even hair loss.
Factors like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, often underplayed, can also be detrimental. Smoking, beyond its well-known health risks, can reduce blood flow to the skin's surface. With reduced blood flow, hair follicles are deprived of the oxygen and nutrients they need to thrive. On the other hand, excessive alcohol can lead to dehydration, affecting the quality and health of the skin and, by extension, the hair that grows from it.
Yet, for all its challenges, patchy beard growth is not a life sentence. Modern advancements in dermatological and aesthetic sciences have equipped us with tools, techniques, and treatments to address such concerns head-on. Understanding the cause is half the battle, and the solutions available today are both effective and transformative.
For men, facial hair can be an expression of individuality, and a patchy beard can sometimes feel like an interruption to this expression. At SRGN, we recognize the deeper nuances of this concern, addressing not just the external appearance but the internal factors and self-esteem linked to it. Through a combination of expertise, experience, and empathy, we aim to offer solutions that resonate on both a physical and personal level.
.png)
.png)
Sparse growth is a type of patchy beard that is distinct due to its thin distribution of facial hair across the face. While the hair might seem to be growing uniformly, the density is just not there, resulting in a sheer veil of hair that allows significant patches of skin to show through.
The underlying reasons for sparse growth are multifaceted. Hormonal imbalances can often be the culprit. The body may produce sufficient androgenic hormones, but if the hair follicles aren't sensitive enough, the hair growth might not be optimal. Think of it as a radio not catching signals even when there are abundant waves around. Sometimes, it could be due to genetics, where family members might also display similar beard growth patterns.
External factors like exposure to harmful chemicals, certain medications, or even radiation can also lead to sparse growth. This type of patchy beard can sometimes be temporary, especially if it is linked to specific treatments like chemotherapy. However, in other instances, it might be more permanent, and seeking intervention becomes crucial to enhance density.
Concentrated patches represent a unique challenge. Here, certain areas of the face, like the chin, jawline, or moustache, may experience lush, dense growth. However, this is juxtaposed with stark, bald patches in other regions, most commonly the cheeks.
Concentrated patches can be visually more contrasting due to the clear demarcation between the thick and hairless areas. The reasons can vary from genetics, where the DNA blueprint dictates this growth pattern, to localised skin conditions or injuries. Past traumas, like scars or burns, can damage hair follicles in specific areas, leading to these patches.
There's also an interesting observation linked to this type. Some researchers believe that areas with concentrated growth might have a higher density of hair follicles or increased blood flow, leading to better nutrient delivery. It's this stark contrast between the lush and barren areas that makes this type particularly noticeable.
The mystery of irregular growth lies in its unpredictability. This type of patchy beard does not follow a set pattern. Instead, random bald spots or thinner patches are scattered across the face with no rhyme or reason.
This randomness can be attributed to a cocktail of factors. Genetics might play a part, albeit not as definitively as in the other types. Hormonal imbalances might influence certain regions more than others. At times, localised skin conditions, infections, or inflammations might damage specific follicles, leading to this erratic pattern.
Environmental factors also hold weight. For example, regular exposure to harsh conditions without adequate protection might affect certain areas more, leading to irregular growth. Stress, too, can manifest in unique ways, affecting hair growth differently across the face.
Each of these growth types provides a window into the complex interplay between genetics, hormones, health, and environment. Understanding them is the first step towards seeking tailored solutions.
The concept of PRP therapy hinges on the body's innate ability to heal and rejuvenate itself. By harnessing the growth factors found in one's blood, this treatment offers a natural approach to combating patchiness. The process begins with drawing a small volume of the patient's blood, which is then placed in a centrifuge. This centrifugation process isolates the plasma from the blood, concentrating the essential growth factors needed for the treatment.
Once the PRP is prepared, it's meticulously injected into the areas of the face showing sparse hair growth. The growth factors in the PRP work diligently to stimulate the hair follicles, awakening them from their dormant or sluggish state. Over time, as the follicles react to this enriched environment, there's an increase in hair growth, leading to a reduction in visible patchiness. What's commendable about PRP therapy is its non-invasive nature and the use of the patient's biological material, reducing the risk of allergies or adverse reactions.
Venturing into a more permanent solution brings us to the realm of hair transplants. A technique that has seen significant refinements over the years, today's hair transplant procedures are a blend of artistry and medical precision. This treatment involves carefully extracting hair follicles from a donor site, typically areas with dense hair growth like the back of the head, and transplanting them to the patchy or bald regions of the beard.
The success of a hair transplant doesn't solely rest on the procedure itself but also on the skill and expertise of the surgeon. A seasoned surgeon not only ensures that the transplanted follicles take root but also that they are placed in a pattern mimicking natural growth, ensuring the final look is as organic as possible.
Over the subsequent weeks and months, these transplanted hair follicles acclimate to their new location and begin producing hair. The result is a more uniform beard growth that stands the test of time. Moreover, since the hair is transplanted from another part of the patient's body, there's a natural consistency in texture, colour, and growth rate.
Deciding between PRP therapy and a hair transplant requires careful consideration. While PRP offers a non-surgical route to enhanced growth, hair transplants provide a long-lasting solution that can fill in even the most stubborn of patches. Factors like the extent of patchiness, the patient's medical history, and personal preferences all play a role in determining the best course of action.
In the heart of these treatments lies the promise of rejuvenation and transformation. At SRGN, we understand the depth of emotion attached to one's appearance. Through our expertise and commitment, we strive to offer pathways that not only address the physical concern of a patchy beard but also the psychological aspects, ensuring our patients feel confident and content with their reflections.
Located in the heart of Ascot, Bicester, and London, the SRGN Clinic exemplifies afusion of cutting-edge science, unparalleled skill, and an unwavering commitment to patient care. The clinic stands as a beacon of excellence in thefield of aesthetic and plastic surgery.
Leading the team at SRGN is Dr. Ayad Harb, a renowned plastic surgeon and aesthetic trainer. His expertise, honed by years of experience and a genuine passion for improving lives, defines the very core of the clinic's ethos. Dr. Harb's innovative techniques, combined with an artistic eye for detail, enable him to deliver consistently exceptional results that are tailored to each patient's individual needs and desires.
At SRGN, we believe in the transformative power of aesthetic and plastic surgery. Our treatments, ranging from non-invasive procedures to complex surgical interventions, are designed to enhance and accentuate your natural beauty. We strive to provide a safe, comfortable, and confidential environment where you can discuss your aesthetic goals openly, and together we create a treatment plan that brings these goals to life.
Every member of the SRGN team shares a deep commitment to patient care. We prioritise your comfort, safety, and satisfaction from the moment you step into our clinic. Each of our facilities mirrors the luxury and tranquility of their surroundings, offering a serene space where you can embark on your journey to self-improvement.
.jpg)
.png)
