Every week, viewers write in with specific questions about hair loss, scalp health and hair treatments. In this FAQ round-up, dermatologist and hair transplant surgeon Dr John Watts answers five reader questions covering fistula and hair loss, keratin treatments, Minoxidil for beard growth, timing a hair transplant around public events, and the investigational drug CTP-543.
Does a Fistula Cause Hair Loss or Grey Hair?
One reader asked whether a fistula problem could lead to hair loss, premature greying or thinning. Dr Watts explained that a fistula can occur along with fissures, which may cause bleeding. "Blood loss may lead to hair fall but if proper medication and diet is taken, you can control it. It is necessary that you also take hair medication along with medication for treating Fistula," he said, while advising the reader to focus on treating the fistula first.
Is a Keratin Treatment or Hair Spa Safe for Damaged Hair?
Another viewer had been advised to get a keratin treatment and hair spa for damaged, frizzy hair. Dr Watts confirmed this is a good option. "This treatment has a moisturising effect and can control the damage to the fizzy hair," he said, while cautioning that salons should avoid using harsh chemicals during the process.
Does Masturbation Slow Down Minoxidil Results on the Beard?
A reader using Minoxidil on his beard, who noticed slow growth of baby hair, asked if frequent masturbation was affecting his results. Dr Watts was direct in his answer: "There is no need for any worry on that" — masturbation has no connection to hair growth.
Can I Get a Hair Transplant Before an Important Event?
One patient with police duty events coming up in two months wanted to know if he could safely undergo a hair transplant beforehand. Dr Watts advised him to focus on his commitments first rather than rush the procedure. "The results would be good whenever you undertake it after attending your events," he said.
Is CTP-543 Available in Pharmacies for Alopecia Areata?
Finally, a reader asked about buying CTP-543 from a pharmacy. Dr Watts clarified that CTP-543 is a potential oral drug for treating alopecia areata that has not yet received market approval. "It is still undergoing the clinical trial stage but may be available in the market after it gets all the necessary approval," he said.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a qualified dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment.
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Frequently asked questions
Can a fistula cause hair loss?
Yes, indirectly. A fistula can occur along with fissures that cause bleeding, and blood loss may lead to hair fall. This can be controlled with proper medication and diet, alongside hair medication.
Is keratin treatment safe for damaged, frizzy hair?
Yes. Keratin treatment has a moisturising, protein-replenishing effect that helps damaged hair regain its shine, as long as the salon avoids harsh chemicals during the process.
Does masturbation affect Minoxidil results on beard growth?
No. Dr Watts confirms masturbation has no connection to hair or beard growth.
Can I get a hair transplant right before an important event?
It's better to attend to the event first and undergo the transplant afterward, rather than rushing the procedure beforehand.
Is CTP-543 available in pharmacies for alopecia areata?
Not yet. CTP-543 is an investigational oral drug for alopecia areata that is still undergoing clinical trials and has not received market approval.
