Can you transplant hair to your armpits? (Photo)

Question

I am a man in my 30's and have very little body hair which i find embarrassing, I'm considering hair transplant procedures for my armpits, is this possible and would you recommend it?

Emrah Cinik, MD · Answer

Underarm hair transplantation is possible, however, several important factors must be carefully considered before proceeding.

The underarm region contains important anatomical structures, including major nerves and the axillary artery and vein. Although these structures lie deeper than the skin where grafts are implanted, the procedure still requires careful planning, precise technique, and a thorough understanding of the local anatomy.

The donor follicles would typically be harvested from either the scalp (back of the head) or the beard. However, hair from these areas has different characteristics from natural underarm hair, particularly in terms of thickness, texture, and growth patterns.

Transplanted follicles generally retain many of their original characteristics, meaning that scalp or beard hair may grow longer than natural underarm hair and require regular trimming.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Yes, hair transplantation to the armpits is technically possible, although it is much less common than scalp hair transplantation. The procedure involves moving hair follicles, usually from the scalp, into the underarm area. However, it is not a routine treatment, and the results can be somewhat unpredictable.

One important consideration is that scalp hair behaves differently from natural underarm hair. Transplanted hairs may continue to grow longer and require regular trimming. The underarm area also has unique characteristics, including moisture, friction, and exposure to deodorants, which can affect healing and comfort. As with any transplant, there are risks of infection, scarring, poor graft survival, and uneven growth.

Since you mention having very little body hair, I would also consider whether this is simply your natural hair pattern or whether there could be an underlying hormonal or medical cause, particularly if you have noticed a recent change in body hair growth. A medical evaluation may be worthwhile before pursuing a cosmetic procedure.

Would I recommend it? Not as a first step. Although transplantation may be an option for carefully selected individuals, there is limited evidence regarding long-term outcomes specifically for underarm hair restoration. I would weigh the potential benefits against the cost, surgical risks, and possibility of needing additional procedures.

Having less body hair than other men is also a normal variation in human genetics and does not, by itself, mean that anything is wrong. If restoring underarm hair is important to you, consulting a dermatologist or hair-transplant surgeon experienced in body-hair restoration would help determine whether you are a suitable candidate and what results are realistically achievable.

Ilhan Serdaroglu, MD · Answer

Yes, this is definitely possible, but it's not a request we encounter very often. By transplanting approximately 400-500 grafts to each armpit, we can create a larger hairy area on armpit region  .

Can you transplant hair to your armpits? (Photo)

Answers (3)

More Hair Transplant Questions

What is my possible Norwood stage and how should I proceed? (Photos)

24, no progress after 1 year of topical finasteride + 3 years of minoxidil — is it really too early for a transplant? (Photos)

Are there cardiac risks during a hair transplant?

31 year old Asian male - Am I a good candidate for a hair transplant to lower my hairline? (Photos)

I want hair transplanted to my chest, what grafts will I have to use?

When can I resume Botox treatments after a hair transplant?

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS