New Survey Shows Rising Interest in Hair Loss Treatments Among Young Adults and Women

Growing Trends in Hair Loss Treatments

A recent survey conducted by the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS) highlights a significant shift in the demographics seeking hair restoration solutions. The findings indicate that more young adults and women are actively pursuing treatments for hair loss. In 2024, an impressive 95% of first-time hair restoration patients were aged between 20 and 35, showcasing the changing landscape of beauty standards and the proactive approaches individuals are taking toward their hair health.

Increased Female Participation

In an encouraging development, the survey shows a noteworthy increase of 16.5% in the number of women undergoing hair transplant surgeries compared to data from 2021. Traditionally dominated by male patients, the hair restoration industry is now witnessing a shift, with women increasingly seeking permanent solutions to hair loss, indicating a change in societal perceptions around beauty and self-image.

Growth in Hair Restoration Procedures

The ISHRS survey indicates a continuous increase in hair transplant surgeries, attributed to advancements in surgical techniques and effective non-surgical solutions. The average number of patients treated by ISHRS members has grown by 20% since 2021, with each member performing an average of 15 procedures per month in 2024. This reflects the commitment of ISHRS-trained professionals who actively manage their patients’ treatments, in contrast to black market clinics where untrained individuals may perform risky procedures.

"People suffering from hair loss are no longer waiting until middle age to explore effective solutions with trusted experts. The manageable workload reported by our members clearly indicates their dedication and competency in administering this intricate surgery," stated Dr. Ricardo Mejia, president of ISHRS.

Interest in Body Hair Transplants

While scalp transplants remain the most sought-after procedure, there is a rising interest in body hair transplants for both men and women. The percentage of men seeking hair transplants for areas other than the scalp climbed to 18% in 2024, up from 13% in 2021. Similarly, women have shown an increased interest in body hair transplants, with 21% seeking such procedures compared to 17% in the previous year. Eyebrow transplants are the most common area women are opting for, while men are increasingly requesting beard and mustache transplants.

Patients' Perspectives

When surveyed about their motivations for undergoing hair restoration, nearly half of the patients expressed their willingness to discuss their experiences with others. The leading reason cited for pursuing hair transplants, at 90%, was the desire to feel more attractive. Following closely, 63% reported wanting to appear younger in order to remain competitive in the workplace. This trend emphasizes the importance of self-esteem and confidence in the beauty enhancement journey.

Risks of the Black Market

Despite growing interest and the increasing number of legitimate procedures, the shadow of black market hair transplants continues to loom. Dr. Mejia noted a disturbing rise in complications due to these illegal procedures, often performed by unauthorized individuals without proper training. ISHRS members reported that 59% have seen black market clinics in their cities; this is up from 51% in 2021. Additionally, the average rate of cases requiring repair due to previous black market surgeries has increased from 6% to 10%.

Conclusion

The data collected in the ISHRS Practice Census Survey, conducted by Relevant Research Consulting, showcases a significant trend towards younger individuals, particularly women, seeking hair restoration treatments. This shift is indicative of changing attitudes towards hair loss and beauty, prompting practitioners to innovate and improve their services to meet evolving patient needs. The continuing battle against unsafe black market practices underscores the need for awareness and education regarding safe, effective hair restoration options.

For a complete overview of the ISHRS 2025 Practice Census, visit the dedicated statistics page for hair restoration.