At Skalp®, we stay on top of the latest hair trends and real, science-led solutions for hair loss.

But throughout history, people have tried some truly strange “cures” for thinning hair — most with little or no scientific evidence.

Thanks to research highlighted by Health 24, here are some of the most unusual hair loss treatments ever recorded.

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Ancient Egypt: Animal Fat and… Worse

Over 3,500 years ago, an Egyptian medical text recommended a mixture of:

• Hippopotamus fat

• Tomcat fat

• Snake fat

• Ibex fat

• Crocodile fat

This was applied to the scalp to treat thinning hair — particularly for pharaohs.

If that failed, cow dung was also suggested.

Unsurprisingly, these methods have not stood the test of time.

The Greeks: Hippocrates’ Unusual Advice

Even the brilliant Hippocrates — often called the father of modern medicine — struggled with hair loss himself.

His recommended treatment included:

• Opium

• Horseradish

• Beetroot

• Pigeon droppings

• Spices

It did not work.

His backup theory was based on observing that eunuchs (castrated men) rarely went bald. His solution? Castration.

Thankfully, that never became mainstream.

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Julius Caesar and Cleopatra’s Remedy

When Julius Caesar began losing his hair, Cleopatra reportedly suggested a mixture of:

• Ground mice

• Horse teeth

• Bear grease

When that failed, Caesar adopted a far more practical solution — the laurel wreath. A timeless cover-up.

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King Henry VIII: A Royal Misstep

Henry VIII reportedly applied horse and dog urine to his scalp in an attempt to reverse hair loss.

History does not record any noticeable success.

1936: The Xervac Vacuum Machine

In 1936, the Crosley Corporation launched the Xervac — a vacuum device designed to “stimulate” hair growth by increasing blood flow to the scalp.

It did not work.

It looked uncomfortable.

And it quickly disappeared.

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Modern Myths: Bull Semen Treatments

Even in recent years, unusual treatments have surfaced in parts of London, including applying bovine semen to the scalp to promote thicker hair.

There is no reliable scientific evidence to support this.

Hair loss can make people vulnerable to bold marketing claims — which is why evidence matters.

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The Difference Today: Science, Not Guesswork

Throughout history, hair loss treatments were based on myth, observation or desperation.

Today, we understand far more about:

• Male pattern baldness

• Hormonal hair loss

• Genetic thinning

• Autoimmune hair conditions

And most importantly — what actually works.

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A Modern Solution: Skalp® Scalp Micropigmentation

Skalp® offers a proven, non-surgical solution for hair loss.

Using advanced scalp micropigmentation (SMP), trained practitioners apply specialised pigment to the scalp. The result creates the appearance of:

• A sharp, closely shaved hairstyle

• Increased density in thinning areas

• A defined hairline

• A clean, confident look

Unlike the treatments above, SMP is:

• Clinically developed

• Non-invasive

• Low maintenance

• Immediate in visible results

If you’re struggling with hair loss — or simply want the clean shaved look — Skalp® provides a modern, realistic solution.

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Thinking About Your Options?

If history has taught us anything, it’s this:

Not every “cure” is credible.

Before trying unproven remedies, speak to professionals who specialise in real, lasting results.

Book a consultation with Skalp® today and discover how scalp micropigmentation can transform your look with confidence.

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