Hair Loss Injection (Scalp Mesotherapy)

How it works

A mix of ingredients chosen by the doctor, which may include vitamins, amino acids or other agents, is injected into or just under the scalp skin using a fine needle or a multi-needle tool. The idea is to deliver the solution close to the hair follicles. Evidence for these mixtures varies, and ingredients differ from clinic to clinic, so ask what is in yours. Results depend on the cause of the thinning, how long it has been going on, and the person.

Who it may suit

• Early or mild thinning where follicles are still active
• People who want to add a scalp treatment to a medicine or home routine the doctor has agreed
• Those who can attend a series of visits
• Shedding after a stressful period, once other causes are checked
• Visitors who understand the results may be gradual and uneven

The treatment day

1. Scalp and history review. The doctor looks at your scalp and asks about family history, diet, stress, hormones, recent illness and medicines.
2. Preparing the solution. The doctor or nurse prepares the mixture. Ask what it contains and write it down.
3. Numbing, if used. A numbing cream may be applied. Some clinics treat without it.
4. Injections across the scalp. Many small injections are given in a pattern. You feel pricks and pressure.
5. Short rest and instructions. The scalp is cleaned, and you get written advice for the next day or two.

Aftercare

• Avoid washing your hair for the period the clinic advises, often the rest of the day.
• Skip hair dye, perms and tight hairstyles until the doctor says they are fine.
• Do not scratch the scalp if it feels itchy or tender.
• Avoid saunas and heavy exercise for a day.
• Take photos of your hair parting every few weeks in the same light.

Things to know first

• Pinpoint bleeding, redness, tenderness, itching and small bumps are common for a day or two.
• Infection, headache and allergic reactions are possible, though uncommon.
• Hair loss from hormonal, autoimmune or scarring conditions needs a proper medical diagnosis first.
• Results vary, and some people see little or no change.
• Ask before treatment if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, take blood thinners or have an active scalp infection.

Talking through hair loss injections in English

Start with the pattern of your hair loss. Say where it is thinning, how long it has been going on, and whether anyone in your family has thinning hair. Bring a few dated photos from the past year. Phrases like "widening part," "receding temples" and "more hair in the shower" are easy to translate.

Ask what exactly is in the injection and whether it is approved for use on the scalp in Korea. Ask how the doctor decides on the number of sessions. A course may involve many visits, so ask what is realistic on a short trip and whether you could continue at home.

Tell the doctor about all medicines and supplements, including any hair-growth treatments you use already. Ask for the ingredient list and a follow-up plan in writing, so a doctor at home can continue or review it.