In this Q&A session, Dr. John Watts, a dermatologist, trichologist and hair transplant surgeon in Hyderabad, answers a mix of questions from his viewers -- covering everything from donor hair choices to common myths about hair loss.
Can Curly Beard Hair Be Used on the Scalp?
A viewer named Ashok asked whether curly beard hair can really be used as a donor graft for the scalp, or whether it would need constant straightening. Dr. Watts explains that the priority during a hair transplant is always to use donor hair from the back of the scalp first. "If one does not have sufficient donor hair, then we look for body hair as grafts. However, there is a catch if we have to use curly beard hair as grafts," he says.
Curly beard hair is usually avoided for the front of the scalp because it looks out of place and disrupts the natural look of the hairline. "Even if you use a hair straightener there is no use as after 3-4 months, these curly hairs again take their natural shape and features. This is because curliness is the dominant natural trait of this hair in that person," Dr. Watts explains. Because of this, curly donor beard hair is better used elsewhere on the scalp, ideally on the top rather than the front hairline.
Hair Loss and Marriage Prospects
Dr. Watts also addressed a difficult, real-life scenario: a colleague, Dr. AV Rao, shared that his friend's marriage was called off after the bride found out about his hair loss problem. Dr. Watts called this a tragic and heartbreaking situation that many people face. "Sometimes, the bridegrooms also reject proposals of brides if they look fat in the photographs. Such body shaming is also an issue," he noted, adding that such incidents reveal more about a person's character than about hair loss itself.
He pointed out that in cases of genetic baldness, the person is not at fault -- it is a hereditary condition. "Hair medication or opting for a hair transplant procedure could have saved this marriage," Dr. Watts remarked, encouraging people facing this issue to consult a dermatologist or hair transplant surgeon rather than feeling helpless.
Do Mobile Phones Cause Hair Loss?
A viewer named Shiva asked if mobile phone radiation could be causing hair loss, given how much time people spend on their phones today. Dr. Watts acknowledges that phones "have become part of our extended self," but clarifies that while studies continue to look at the general health effects of mobile phone radiation, none have proven a link to hair loss.
Minoxidil and Finasteride: Which Combination Works Better?
Another viewer, Shekhar, asked which combination gives better results -- Minoxidil lotion with oral Finasteride tablets, or Minoxidil lotion mixed with Finasteride lotion. Dr. Watts clarifies that both Minoxidil and Finasteride, when used as lotions, act only where they are applied. "Their effect is localised. You get results where you apply them," he explains.
Across all these questions, Dr. Watts's message stays consistent: don't rely on myths or assumptions when it comes to your hair. Speak to a qualified dermatologist or hair transplant surgeon who can address your specific concern with facts, not guesswork.
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 curly beard hair be transplanted onto the scalp?
Yes, but it's better placed on the top of the scalp rather than the front hairline, since curly hair returns to its natural shape within 3-4 months even after straightening.
Does mobile phone radiation cause hair loss?
No studies have proven a link between mobile phone radiation and hair loss, according to Dr. Watts.
Which works better for hair growth -- Minoxidil with oral Finasteride, or Minoxidil mixed with Finasteride lotion?
Dr. Watts notes that Minoxidil and Finasteride lotions only work where they are applied, since their effect is localised to the application area.
What can be done about hair loss affecting marriage prospects?
Dr. Watts advises consulting a dermatologist or hair transplant surgeon early -- hair medication or a hair transplant procedure can address the underlying genetic hair loss.
