Background Information
Elon Musk is one of the world’s most popular entrepreneurs and innovators, from Tesla and SpaceX to Hyperloop and Neuralink. He has achieved monumental success in business, yet, he is just as defined by his unique lifestyle, style of dressing and famously-flowing locks of hair. But that hasn’t always been the case. On July 8th, 2020, the billionaire took to Twitter to answer a fan about the status of his famous mane. Musk replied, “I did! It’s not been reported or anything, but I did”. Together with a perfectly placed laughing emoji.
The Facts
Considering that Elon Musk himself confirmed the news of his hair transplant, there is no doubt that it has actually happened. Musk’s new hairline was then accompanied by further proof of its authenticity in the form of a video posted to his social media. It appeared to show him getting a hair trim. However, it’s widely believed that the trim is more than likely what is referred to as a “weed” trim. This is where the hair covering the front of the scalp is trimmed very short, while the rest of the hair is left long.
Expert Opinion
As per expert feedback Dr. Will Richardson, a board-certified dermatologist and fellow at the American Academy of Dermatology, says it’s likely that Musk had a hair transplant. ‘The most common type of hair transplant procedure performed is called follicular unit extraction (FUE),’ says Richardson. “This involves taking individual hairs from a donor area and transplanting them to areas of the scalp with thinning or balding hair. The procedure can take six hours or more depending on the amount of hair being transferred.”
Analysis
While many of us tend to perceive hair loss as an unfortunate side effect of aging, the reality is that hair loss can happen to anyone. Men and women from all walks of life suffer from hair loss, with estimates ranging from 30 to 50 percent of men and 50 to 70 percent of women. Elon Musk’s decision to get a hair transplant is no different from anyone else’s, it’s simply a personal choice he’s made in order to feel more comfortable and confident in his own skin.
Aesthetic Effects
The effects of a hair transplant are often quite dramatic, as proven by Musk’s much fuller hairline. With his new hairline, it’s clear that Musk has taken matters into his own hands and embraced his natural, thicker look. While hair transplants have traditionally been viewed as a “last resort,” they have become increasingly popular among men and women alike, who are interested in looking and feeling their best.
Secondary Benefits
Apart from aesthetic effects,hair transplant can also have positive psychosocial benefits. Research shows that hair loss in men has been linked to depression and anxiety. This can range from the struggles with self-esteem, to the fear of being judged by others. When individuals restore their hair with transplantation, research has found that their levels of self-esteem and self-confidence improve dramatically.
Recovery
Prior to Tesla becoming a global sensation, there were reports that Musk had the hair transplant procedure during a three-month vacation in 2015. As per the sources, he underwent the procedure and was ‘in recovery’ during the three months.
Post Treatment
Immediately following the procedure, stringent care must be taken to ensure that the newly transplanted hair follicles do not become infected or are not damaged. As per the surgeons, this includes avoiding direct sunlight in the first few weeks, not rubbing or scratching the area and using a milder hair care regimen.
Costs
It is estimated that Musk’s hair transplant costed somewhere in the ballpark of $30,000 – $40,000. This is a hefty price tag for a hair transplant and speaks volumes to the level of care and quality he sought out. In comparison, a basic hair transplant usually averages around $5,000 – $10,000, while a FUE hair transplant (which Musk likely underwent) ranges between $8,000 and $15,000.
Involvement of Well-known Hair Clinics
In 2015 Musk was seen in a Beverly Hills property which belonged to a famous hair transplant medical clinic. It has been speculated that it was here Musk underwent his hair transplant. There are a few other clinics that Musk may have gone to, however it is yet to be confirmed.
Non-Surgical Procedures
In addition to his rumored hair transplant, Musk is also reported to have used non-surgical hair restoration treatments, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP), laser treatments, and microneedling techniques. All these techniques help restore hair growth and improve overall hair quality and thickness.
Genetics
Genetics play a major role in hair loss, and Musk is no exception. His dad was completely bald by the age of 30, and that’s the same fate Musk was likely facing if he hadn’t visited a hair transplant specialist. As we all know, genes are a major factor in balding, so it was no surprise to see Musk turn to hair restoration.
Conclusion
All in all, Elon Musk’s decision to get a hair transplant was one made in order to restore his hair and self-confidence. With a reputable specialist and the right post-treatment care, Musk was able to obtain a much thicker, fuller hairline. Both hair transplants and non-surgical treatments are becoming increasingly popular among men and women alike, and Musk’s attention to detail and dedication to improving his appearance has certainly been an inspiration for many.
