Zak Hardaker FUE Hair Transplant Before & After

In a refreshingly honest move, rugby league star Zak Hardaker shared his hair transplant journey with fans through Instagram in early 2021. The Hull FC centre decided to tackle his receding hairline head-on, documenting the entire process and helping break down stigmas around hair transplants in professional sports.

• Zak Hardeker got a FUE hair transplant at British Hair Clinic in early 2021
• Approximately 2,800 grafts were transplanted
• The primary focus was on the hairline and temple restoration
• Hardeker openly documented his experience on Instagram
• Hardeker combined PRP treatment with hair transplant for enhanced results

Who is Zak Hardaker?

Zak Hardeker is an English professional rugby player who’s centre and fullback for Hull FC in the Super League. His dynamic playing style and adaptability on the field have established him as a respected presence in professional rugby.

What was Zak Hardaker’s early career like?

Zak Hardaker’s early career began at his hometown club, Knottingley Rockware, where his natural talent quickly became evident. His breakthrough came after signing professional terms with Featherstone Rovers, culminating in joint Co-operative Championship Young Player of the Year honors in 2010. This early recognition propelled him toward successful stints with Leeds, Castleford, Wigan, and, ultimately, Hull FC.

How did Zak Hardaker’s hair look during their early years?

In his early years, Zak Hardaker always had shorter hair with a straight and defined hairline. His hair was not particularly thick, but his natural density and shape suited his features. 

When did Zak Hardaker start losing his hair?

Zak Hardaker started losing his hair around late 2018-early 2019. Hardaker mentioned that he shaved his hair during the pandemic, but it never really grew back.

How did Zak Hardaker’s hair change over time?

Hardaker’s hair loss became most apparent between 2019 and 2020. After he shaved his hair during lockdowns, his temples, and hairline receded and did not grow back. However, he still had good density at the back of his head and his crown area. This indicates a level 2 hair loss on the Norwood scale. 

What is the reason for Zak Hardaker’s hair loss?

The pattern of Zak Hardaker’s hair loss, characterized by recession in the temples and hairline while maintaining crown density aligns with typical androgenetic alopecia characteristics. This common form of male pattern hair loss often stems from a combination of genetic predisposition and hormonal factors.

How did hair loss affect Zak Hardaker’s confidence?

Hardeker admitted that he never really had confidence issues as a pro athlete, but hair loss did make him feel self-conscious. With his hair loss, he started to feel less and less comfortable going out and socializing. Before his hair transplant, we can see Hardeker frequently wearing hats and beanies when going out. 

What sparked rumors about Zak Hardaker’s hair transplant?

There were no rumors about Zak Hardeker’s hair transplant; the athlete bravely shared on his Instagram that he got a hair transplant and talked candidly about the process.

Did Zak Hardaker have a hair transplant?

Yes, Zak Hardaker’s hair transplant was confirmed in 2021 by himself.  Hardaker released 2 long videos on Instagram talking about the procedure and recovery in detail.

Which type of hair transplant did Zak Hardaker get?

Hardaker likely underwent either FUE or Sapphire FUE hair transplant based on his descriptions of the procedure, which mentioned scalp incisions.

How many grafts did Zak Hardaker’s hair transplant require?

According to Hardeker, he got 2800 grafts implanted.

Where did Zak Hardaker get hair transplant?

Zak Hardaker got his hair transplant at the British Hair Clinic.

What details are known about Zak Hardaker’s hair transplant?

According to Hardeker, after several months of research, he carefully chose his clinic. He described the anesthesia as initially uncomfortable but noted that the discomfort lasted only two minutes. The implantation process took three hours, and plenty of healthy donor grafts were available from the back of his head.

Does Zak Hardaker use any supplementary hair loss treatments?

Before getting a hair transplant, Hardeker got PRP treatments at the British Hair Clinic to combat hair loss. In his Instagram videos, Hardeker mentioned he plans to start using Minoxidil to maintain his hair transplant results.

How much did Zak Hardaker’s hair transplant cost?

Zak Hardeker did not confirm the exact cost of his hair transplant but said that it was neither too cheap nor too expensive. Based on his remarks, we can assume his hair transplant cost somewhere between £4,000 and £8,000. 

How does Zak Hardaker look before and after hair transplant?

Before the hair transplant Zak Hardeker had a Norwood lever 2 hair loss pattern. After his hair transplant, his temples and hairline are restored. The results are natural and look very similar to his natural and youthful hairline. 

How has Zak Hardaker’s hair transplant held up over time?

Four years after the hair transplant, Zak Hardaker still has great results. His hair seems to hold up well over time, and the line between his natural hair and the transplanted hair is invisible.

How has Zak Hardaker styled their hair since the hair transplant?

After his hair transplant, Hardaker has experimented with various styles, including slightly longer cuts and even bleach blonde hair. As of late 2024, he’s chosen a close-cropped style, showcasing the versatility of his restored hair.

What does Dr. Ömer Aykut Sümer of MedArt Hair think of Zak Hardaker’s hair transplant?

According to Dr. Sümer, Hardaker’s transplant exemplifies strategic planning and skillful execution. His hair loss may not have been as excessive as most cases we see at the clinic, but the early intervention worked really well. 

Why do so many athletes get hair trasnplants?

Professional athletes and celebrities face unique pressures under high-definition cameras and constant media scrutiny. Hair restoration offers a way to maintain their image and confidence. When public figures like Hardaker share their experiences openly, it helps normalize these procedures for others facing similar challenges.

Which other athletes had a hair transplant?

Several high-profile athletes have reportedly undergone hair restoration:

• Wayne Rooney pioneered openness about hair transplants in football
• David Beckham’s alleged procedure remains widely discussed
• Antonio Conte’s dramatic transformation drew attention

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