Hair transplantation for individuals with afro hair – What you need to know

Is your hairline starting to recede at the temples? Does your hair feel significantly thinner than before?
Is that bald spot on the crown starting to feel larger and larger? Then you’ve probably been affected by hair loss – something that sooner or later affects a large proportion of men. How much, how fast, and when it happens varies from person to person; for some, hair loss begins at a young age, and for others, it never does.

Afro hair, also known as afro-textured hair or curly hair, is naturally curly or spiral-shaped. It has a unique structure:

This structure gives afro hair beautiful volume and character, but it also makes it more challenging during hair transplantation.

Implantation of afro hair is technically more advanced compared to straight or wavy hair for several reasons:

1. Curved hair follicles
   • Afro hair grows in curved hair follicles under the skin, making it more difficult to extract without damaging them.
2. Increased risk of damage during extraction
   • The FUE method (Follicular Unit Extraction) requires great precision to follow the direction of the hair follicles.
3. More grafts required for density
   • Since the hair curls, it visually covers less area than straight hair. Therefore, more grafts are needed to achieve the same visual density.
4. Increased risk of keloid scarring
   • Individuals with afro hair often have a higher tendency to develop keloids, which must be taken into account in advance.

Both FUE and DHI (Direct Hair Implantation) can be used for afro-textured hair, but:

• DHI with the Choi pen is often not recommended, as the pen is not always suited for curly hair follicles.
• The FUE method is the most common, but it requires a specially trained technician and specialized tools with a larger punch size (e.g., 0.9 mm – 1.1 mm).

At 85kliniken, we always conduct a thorough assessment to choose the right technique for your specific hair type.

Despite the challenges, there are also many advantages:

• Naturally voluminous result
• Curly structure covers more when the right density is achieved
• Less need for styling after transplantation

With proper planning and execution, the result can be very natural and long-lasting.

1. Choose a clinic with experience in afro hair
   • Not all clinics have the knowledge to handle afro-textured hair correctly. Ask for reference photos and previous patient testimonials.
2. Set realistic expectations
   • The result will be natural, but sometimes two treatments may be required for optimal density.
3. Prepare for the healing process
   • Follow aftercare instructions carefully. Afro hair may grow slightly slower in the transplanted area.

After a hair transplant, aftercare is crucial. For afro hair, the following applies:

• Use sulfate-free and silicone-free shampoos
• Avoid strong chemicals or hair dye during the first 6 months
• Protect the hair from sun exposure and dehydration
• Moisturize the scalp regularly

It usually takes:

• 3–4 months: The first hair strands begin to grow
• 6–8 months: You see noticeable improvement
• 12 months: The final result is visible

Some individuals with afro hair may experience a slightly longer timeline, but the result is worth the wait.

At 85kliniken, we offer tailored treatments that take into account the unique structure and characteristics of afro hair. We have extensive experience working with different hair types and are one of the few clinics in Sweden specializing in hair transplants for afro hair.

We use customized extraction tools and techniques to minimize the risk of damage to the curved hair follicles, and our technicians are trained to identify and follow the hair’s natural growth direction to ensure the highest graft survival rate.

Each patient receives an individualized plan where we review:

• Your hair’s density and structure
• The donor area’s capacity
• The number of grafts needed
• Risk assessment for scarring
• Expected results and timeline

We also offer post-treatment follow-up, including PRP treatments and advice on proper hair care to promote healthy regrowth. Our goal is to ensure that you, as a patient, feel safe, informed, and satisfied throughout the entire process – from the initial consultation to the final result.

We have clinics in Göteborg, Stockholm, and Malmö, and welcome patients from all over Sweden and internationally.