My hair thinned because I got it bleached. It won't grow back. What can I do?

Question

hi i used to have very thick hair. My hair was so thick that my hair ties would break. I then went into a salon and a woman put streaks in my hair (bleach). After that, my hair has thinned so much that 80 percent of it has fallen off and not grown back and it has thinned so much. What can I do to grow back the hair? Its been two years and it hasn't grown back. It has thinned quite a bit and I am devastated. Keep in mind I am a 29 year old female.

Guray Yesiladali, MD, FEBOPRAS · Answer

Hello, Thank you for your question. First of all I recommend you to go a dermatologist. Chemical treatments could harm your hair but your case is quite serious. Chemically damaged hairs will regrow after 8-12 months otherwise that means you damaged your hair roots.

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

It may take 6 to 12 months for damaged hairs to grow back.  If you are concerned it is best to see a doctor for an examination.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I suggest seeing a hair loss expert to evaluate and go over your condition and provide you information about your best treatment options. There are great non-invasive options like PRP/progesterone and/or hair transplantation. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Carrie Houssock, MD · Answer

I am sorry this has happened to you.  If the bleach has damaged the scalp, it has been seen that some chemical treatments can indeed permanently effect hair growth.  I would highly suggest seeing a hair restoration specialist to be evaluated for nonsurgical and surgical options.

Kapil Dua, MBBS, MS · Answer

Hair loss  can occur following the use of chemicals. This can be in the form of hair breakage or shedding which can be usually recovered after 6-12 months. But, it will be better to get a physical examination by a hair specialist doctor to know the exact extent of the damage and the treatment of the same..

My hair thinned because I got it bleached. It won't grow back. What can I do?

Answers (9)