Reclaiming Confidence: Why More Women Are Choosing Hair Restoration

For generations, hair loss in women was whispered about, concealed with clever styling, extensions, or temporary fixes. Today, that silence is being broken. Advances in medical technology, greater awareness, and a cultural shift toward openness around aesthetic treatments are empowering women to explore permanent, confidence-restoring solutions.

Hair transplants and regenerative procedures are no longer taboo, they are part of a broader wellness conversation. To understand why this shift is happening now, and what options women truly have, we roped in Medical Director of DHI South Africa, Dr Dhesan Moodley, to unpack the science, psychology, and future of female hair restoration.

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Glamour: Hair transplants were long viewed as a male-dominated space. What’s changing?

Dr Dhesan Moodley: That perception is definitely evolving. Historically, hair transplantation was associated almost exclusively with men, largely because male pattern baldness is more visible and predictable. Today, advancements in technology and technique mean we can safely and effectively treat women as well. Just as importantly, women are now more informed and empowered to seek long-term solutions rather than hiding the problem.

Glamour: What’s driving the growing interest among women specifically?

Dr Dhesan Moodley: There are several factors. Improved surgical techniques like Direct Hair Implantation (DHI) have made results far more natural and discreet. We also see greater public awareness; women now understand that conditions like traction alopecia or localised thinning can be treated permanently. On top of that, social media and public figures are helping normalise conversations around hair loss and restoration.

Glamour: How have modern techniques improved outcomes for women?

Dr Dhesan Moodley: Older methods often produced unnatural results, which understandably discouraged women. Today, techniques like DHI allow us to implant follicles with incredible precision, controlling the angle, direction, and depth of each graft. Importantly for women, the procedure often doesn’t require shaving the entire head, making it a far more appealing and discreet option.

Glamour: Non-surgical treatments are also gaining popularity. Why is that?

Dr Dhesan Moodley: Much like Botox and fillers, non-surgical hair restoration has become part of mainstream aesthetic care. While PRP has been around for some time, newer regenerative therapies such as stem cell treatments, exosomes, and Growth Factor Concentrate (GFC) are taking things further. These treatments stimulate follicular repair and density and can be used alone or alongside transplants to enhance results.

Glamour: Hair loss can be deeply emotional for women. How does that factor into treatment decisions?

Dr Dhesan Moodley: Hair loss affects identity, confidence, and emotional well-being. Society is becoming more aware of this psychological impact, which is why hair restoration is now recognised as more than a cosmetic procedure, it’s about quality of life. When women restore their hair, they often regain a sense of self and confidence that impacts every area of their lives.

Glamour: Are women good candidates for hair transplants?

Dr Dhesan Moodley: Absolutely but careful assessment is essential. Women often experience diffuse thinning, even in donor areas, which can make transplantation more complex. This is why a thorough consultation is critical. Interestingly, non-surgical regenerative therapies can strengthen both donor and recipient areas, improving suitability and overall transplant outcomes.

Glamour: What does the data tell us about women and hair restoration?

Dr Dhesan Moodley: Currently, women account for about 10–15% of global hair transplant procedures, and that number is steadily increasing. Non-surgical hair regeneration treatments are even more popular among women. These trends clearly indicate changing attitudes and growing acceptance.

Glamour: Why has DHI become such a compelling option for women?

Dr Dhesan Moodley: DHI is uniquely suited to women because it’s precise, minimally invasive, and discreet. Using the patented Choi implanter pen, we can place follicles without damaging existing hair, which is crucial for women with thinning density. There’s minimal scarring, faster recovery, and very natural results. Combined with regenerative therapies like Regenera Activa, PRP, and GFC, it offers a comprehensive solution.

Glamour: What sets DHI apart globally?

Dr Dhesan Moodley: DHI originated in Greece and is a world leader in hair loss diagnosis, prevention, and treatment, with 50 years of experience and 68 centres worldwide. All procedures are performed entirely by medical doctors trained internationally in DHI techniques. That medical-led approach ensures safety, consistency, and superior outcomes, especially important for female patients.

Glamour: Final thoughts for women considering hair restoration?

Dr Dhesan Moodley: Hair loss is nothing to be ashamed of, and effective solutions exist. Whether surgical or non-surgical, the key is personalised treatment guided by medical expertise. This is a new era for women; one where restoring hair also means restoring confidence and choice.