By Dr. Dmitri Wall, Consultant Dermatologist, Hair Transplant Surgeon, and Hair Researcher
Changes in hair colour are often observed following medical treatment for hair loss or after hair transplant surgery. Below, Dr. Dmitri Wall explains the factors that may contribute to these changes.
Hair Colour Changes Associated with Medication
Hair colour darkening is sometimes noted in patients undergoing medical treatment for hair loss.
The exact reason for this is not fully understood, but it could be related to an increase in the size of hair follicles, which may allow them to hold more pigment. Another possibility is that the medication helps stimulate increased production of melanin—the pigment responsible for hair colour.
Early stages of androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss) are often associated with reduced pigmentation, particularly in areas such as the temples and crown. With effective treatment—which is achieved in approximately 90% of patients—these lighter or hypopigmented hairs may regain some of their natural colour as the follicles recover.
Hair Colour Changes Following Hair Transplant Surgery
During hair transplant surgery, donor hairs are typically harvested from the back and sides of the head, an area known for its resistance to hair loss. These grafts are then transplanted to areas of thinning or miniaturised hair, such as the hairline or crown.
Because donor hairs are generally thicker and more pigmented, the transplanted area may appear to have a richer or darker hair colour compared to surrounding native hair. Achieving a natural appearance requires careful planning and placement to ensure even distribution and consistent colour blending between transplanted and existing hairs.
In summary, both medical treatment and surgical hair restoration can influence hair colour. These changes are typically due to healthier, more active hair follicles and the natural pigments they produce, rather than any direct change caused by the treatment or surgery itself.
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About the Author
Dr Dmitri Wall
Dermatologist
MB BCh BAO RCP
Dr Wall contributes to a number of national and international committees and projects, such as the European Reference Network for Rare and Undiagnosed Skin Disease (ERN Skin), for which he is the eHealth lead, and the British Association of Dermatologists Health Informatics Sub Committee. He has presented regularly at national and international dermatology meetings, such as the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) and European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology annual meetings.
