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Elon Musk | Source: Getty Images
Elon Musk | Source: Getty Images

6 Astounding Celebrity Hair Transformations – Photos to Compare

Milla Sigaba
May 22, 2024
04:10 A.M.
  • Hollywood's biggest male stars are not just known for their talents but also their stunning hair transformations.
  • From Elon Musk's miraculous mane to John Travolta's bold choices, these six male celebrities' hair journeys are nothing short of outstanding.
  • See the striking before-and-after photos that capture their remarkable changes.
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Elon Musk at the 10th Annual Breakthrough Prize Ceremony on April 13, 2024, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

Elon Musk at the 10th Annual Breakthrough Prize Ceremony on April 13, 2024, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

Male pattern baldness affects countless men worldwide, including some of Hollywood’s most iconic stars. None have publicly confirmed getting hair restoration procedures. But, their changing looks suggest they did, sparking debates on social media.

From thinning locks to fuller manes, these changes are both remarkable and intriguing. Prepare to be amazed by the captivating journeys of these six male celebrities' hair transformations.

John Travolta at The 22nd Annual Critics' Choice Awards on December 11, 2016, in Santa Monica, California. | Source: Getty Images

John Travolta at The 22nd Annual Critics' Choice Awards on December 11, 2016, in Santa Monica, California. | Source: Getty Images

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Elon Musk

Elon Musk, the visionary entrepreneur behind Tesla and SpaceX, has not only transformed the tech and automotive industries but also his appearance. In the early 2000s, Musk's hair was thinning and his hairline was receding. These were classic signs of male pattern baldness.

A portrait of Elon Musk on August 7, 2000, in Palo Alto, California. | Source: Getty Images

A portrait of Elon Musk on August 7, 2000, in Palo Alto, California. | Source: Getty Images

This period saw Musk with a visibly sparse scalp. It was especially so at the temples and crown — a clear sign of androgenetic alopecia. His hair loss was so pronounced that it was impossible to overlook, making it a topic of much speculation.

But by the decade's end, Musk's hair showed remarkable improvement. It was during this time that many believe he started to take steps to combat his hair loss.

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A portrait of Elon Musk on on July 25, 2008, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

A portrait of Elon Musk on on July 25, 2008, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

Dr. Michael May, Wimpole Clinic's principal hair transplant surgeon, explains, "He was most likely using FDA-approved medical therapy around this time, such as Minoxidil or Finasteride."

Despite these measures, the dramatic improvement in his hair density and the restoration of his hairline suggested that medication alone wasn't responsible for the transformation.

Elon Musk at a Tesla Motors press conference during the 2009 North American Auto Show on January 13, 2009. | Source: Getty Images

Elon Musk at a Tesla Motors press conference during the 2009 North American Auto Show on January 13, 2009. | Source: Getty Images

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By the late 2000s, Musk's hair had made a comeback. It was most noticeable at the front of his scalp. The change was so significant that it suggested a likely hair transplant procedure.

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Dr. May has posited that Musk's hair restoration journey probably included his first hair transplant during this period. The results were impressive, giving the tech mogul a much fuller and thicker hairline that resembled his youthful look.

Elon Musk and Grimes at the 2018 MET Gala on May 7, 2018, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

Elon Musk and Grimes at the 2018 MET Gala on May 7, 2018, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

In recent years, Musk's hair has continued to evolve, achieving a density and fullness that almost rivals his original hair. His current hairline is straight and even. It suggests that Musk has had multiple hair transplants to get and keep such impressive results.

Elon Musk at the 2022 MET Gala on May 2, 2022, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

Elon Musk at the 2022 MET Gala on May 2, 2022, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

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Kevin Costner

Kevin Costner, an iconic figure in Hollywood known for his roles in numerous critically acclaimed films, has also experienced a notable hair transformation over the years. During the 1980s, Kevin Costner was recognized for his dark, curly hair, a signature look that complemented his roles in period films from the era.

Kevin and Cindy Costner in New York circa 1980. | Source: Getty Images

Kevin and Cindy Costner in New York circa 1980. | Source: Getty Images

By the early 2000s, Costner had shifted to shorter hairstyles. This change aligned with a maturing look and perhaps the practical needs of his roles in the industry.

However, during the mid to late 2000s, Costner's hair density started to experience noticeable changes. Hair transplant experts believe that he likely underwent hair restoration procedures during this period.

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Kevin Costner during "The Guardian" press conference on September 9, 2006, in Toronto, Canada. | Source: Getty Images

Kevin Costner during "The Guardian" press conference on September 9, 2006, in Toronto, Canada. | Source: Getty Images

The transition is evident in the increased density and more defined hairline compared to earlier years. The exact timing of his hair transplants is not publicly known, but experts estimate it to be around 2007 to 2008 based on the observed improvements.

Kevin Costner at the 2013 Cesar Film Awards on February 22, 2013, in Paris, France. | Source: Getty Images

Kevin Costner at the 2013 Cesar Film Awards on February 22, 2013, in Paris, France. | Source: Getty Images

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In recent years, Kevin Costner’s hair has been a blend of orange-grey hues, reflecting a naturally aging yet healthy appearance. The density and fullness of his hair are clear indicators of successful hair restoration procedures.

Kevin Costner at the 77th annual Cannes Film Festival on May 19, 2024, in France. | Source: Getty Images

Kevin Costner at the 77th annual Cannes Film Festival on May 19, 2024, in France. | Source: Getty Images

Jude Law

Jude Law, the British actor known for his striking looks and charismatic presence, has experienced a notable hair transformation over the years. In his early career, Law was known for his thick, lustrous hair and a prominent V-shaped hairline. This signature look was a part of his youthful charm and contributed significantly to his on-screen presence.

Jude Law at the premiere of "The Talented Mr. Ripley" on December 12, 1999, in  Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

Jude Law at the premiere of "The Talented Mr. Ripley" on December 12, 1999, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

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However, the downside of a V-shaped hairline is that it can make any signs of receding more apparent as the years go by. As Law entered his late 20s, signs of male-pattern baldness began to appear.

His hairline started to recede, transitioning from a V shape to a more pronounced U shape. Still, he kept a stylish and somewhat messy look. He often pushed his hair forward to hide the thinning spots.

Jude Law at the screening of "Dom Hemingway" on October 28, 2013, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

Jude Law at the screening of "Dom Hemingway" on October 28, 2013, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

By 2012, Law made a bold move by shaving his head. This big change addressed his thinning hair. It also showed his versatility and willingness to adapt. The shaved look was a quick fix. But, it showed how much he was balding, and the need for a better cure. Around 2015, Law's hair appeared noticeably fuller.

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Jude Law at the Fox Searchlight Pictures' "Dom Hemingway" screening hosted by The Cinema Society And Links Of London on March 27, 2014, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

Jude Law at the Fox Searchlight Pictures' "Dom Hemingway" screening hosted by The Cinema Society And Links Of London on March 27, 2014, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

The increase in volume sparked speculation about possible hair restoration treatments. Law has maintained his fuller locks since 2018, with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy being one of the treatments professionals have suggested as a possible reason behind his rejuvenated tresses.

Jude Law at the world premiere of "Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets Of Dumbledore" on March 29, 2022, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

Jude Law at the world premiere of "Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets Of Dumbledore" on March 29, 2022, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

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John Travolta

John Travolta, the renowned actor celebrated for his versatile roles and charismatic screen presence, has experienced a dramatic hair transformation over the years. In his early career, Travolta was known for his thick, dark hair, a defining feature that contributed to his heartthrob image in the 1970s and 1980s.

John Travolta at the Academy Awards circa 1978 in Los Angeles. | Source: Getty Images

John Travolta at the Academy Awards circa 1978 in Los Angeles. | Source: Getty Images

As Travolta entered his 30s and moved into the 2000s, signs of hair loss and a receding hairline became more apparent. During this period, he often resorted to wearing hats and other head coverings to camouflage his thinning hair.

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Despite these efforts, the hair loss was noticeable, reflecting a common issue faced by many men as they age. Around 2015, Travolta's hair made a significant comeback, sparking widespread speculation about possible hair transplant procedures.

John Travolta at the world premiere of "Life on the Line" during the 2015 Napa Valley Film Festival on November 14, 2015, in California. | Source: Getty Images

John Travolta at the world premiere of "Life on the Line" during the 2015 Napa Valley Film Festival on November 14, 2015, in California. | Source: Getty Images

His new hairline appeared straighter, stronger, and denser, indicating a successful intervention. However, Travolta has now ditched having hair altogether and confidently rocks the bald look.

John Travolta at the opening night gala and 30th anniversary screening of "Pulp Fiction" during the 2024 TCM Classic Film Festival on April 18, 2024, in Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images

John Travolta at the opening night gala and 30th anniversary screening of "Pulp Fiction" during the 2024 TCM Classic Film Festival on April 18, 2024, in Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images

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Mel Gibson

Mel Gibson has established himself as a major Hollywood star, leading to iconic performances in "Lethal Weapon" and "Braveheart." In his early years, Gibson's thick, wavy hair complemented his rugged good looks.

Mel Gibson during The 10th Annual Moving Picture Ball American Cinematheque Award Honoring Mel Gibson on September 29, 1995, in Century City, California. | Source: Getty Images

Mel Gibson during The 10th Annual Moving Picture Ball American Cinematheque Award Honoring Mel Gibson on September 29, 1995, in Century City, California. | Source: Getty Images

However, as he transitioned into his 30s and 40s, male pattern baldness became evident, characterized by a receding hairline and thinning at the crown. In the 1990s and early 2000s, Gibson often opted for shorter hairstyles to manage his thinning hair.

Mel Gibson at a press conference for "What Women Want" on October 17, 2000, in Sydney, Australia. | Source: Getty Images

Mel Gibson at a press conference for "What Women Want" on October 17, 2000, in Sydney, Australia. | Source: Getty Images

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His struggle with hair loss became more apparent, leading to speculation and interest in how he would address it. To combat his receding hairline, Gibson is believed to have undergone a hair transplant using the Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) method.

Mel Gibson at the 69th annual Cannes Film Festival on May 21, 2016, in France. | Source: Getty Images

Mel Gibson at the 69th annual Cannes Film Festival on May 21, 2016, in France. | Source: Getty Images

This procedure involves extracting individual hair grafts and implanting them into thinning areas. This resulted in a big improvement. It made his hair thicker and denser, boosting his overall appearance.

Mel Gibson during the 73rd Venice Film Festival on September 4, 2016, in Italy. | Source: Getty Images

Mel Gibson during the 73rd Venice Film Festival on September 4, 2016, in Italy. | Source: Getty Images

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Now, Gibson sports a full, neatly styled beard, complementing his thick, well-groomed hair. This look adds a distinguished, mature aura, blending his rugged past with a refined present.

Mel Gibson at the 21st Annual Huading Global Film Awards on December 15, 2016, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

Mel Gibson at the 21st Annual Huading Global Film Awards on December 15, 2016, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

Sylvester Stallone

Sylvester Stallone, the legendary action star known for his roles in "Rocky" and "Rambo," has experienced a subtle journey with his hair over the decades. Stallone's strong, black hair was a significant part of his rugged image throughout the 1970s and 1980s.

A portrait of Sylvester Stallone circa 1996. | Source: Getty Images

A portrait of Sylvester Stallone circa 1996. | Source: Getty Images

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During this period, he maintained a thick, wavy hairstyle that perfectly complemented his tough-guy persona, with no visible signs of hair loss. But, by the late 1990s, subtle changes began to appear. A closer look at photos from this era reveals early signs of hairline recession. It's most noticeable at the temples.

Sylvester Stallone and Naseem Hamed at the Sky Champions of Sport event on January 1, 1996 in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

Sylvester Stallone and Naseem Hamed at the Sky Champions of Sport event on January 1, 1996 in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

Despite this, Stallone continued to wear his signature look. He used the natural thickness of his hair to hide these initial changes. Around 2000, his hairline's density and shape improved. This strongly suggests he got a hair transplant.

Sylvester Stallone at the 74th Annual Golden Globe Awards on January 8, 2017, in Beverly Hills, California. | Source: Getty Images

Sylvester Stallone at the 74th Annual Golden Globe Awards on January 8, 2017, in Beverly Hills, California. | Source: Getty Images

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Professionals believe that his procedure was likely a Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT). It involved transplanting around 1,000 to 1,200 grafts. Recent years have shown that Stallone's hair restoration journey has had lasting success. His current style is often short and well-groomed. It projects an image of confidence and lasting appeal.

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In a world where looks are crucial, hair changes are a hot topic. This is especially true among celebrities. Their journeys were from thinning hair to fuller manes. They show the progress in hair restoration tech. Their hair looks more youthful now.

As we marvel at their before-and-after photos, it's clear that their journey to maintaining a youthful appearance is as captivating as their careers themselves.

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