Trae Young, the electrifying point guard for the Atlanta Hawks, is widely recognized for his clutch three-pointers and fearless leadership on the court. But off the court, there’s another element of his identity that has sparked almost as much conversation—his hair. Whether you’ve seen him trending on Twitter for a buzzer-beater or for his curly crown, it’s clear that Trae Young’s hair has become an unexpected internet fascination. Over the years, fans have speculated, criticized, and even memed his appearance. In this article, we take a deeper, human look into the reality of Trae Young hair, the transformation over time, and how he’s responded to the noise with characteristic confidence.
Quick Bio:
| Full Name | Rayford Trae Young |
|---|---|
| Nickname | Trae Young |
| Date of Birth | September 19, 1998 |
| Age | 26 years old |
| Birthplace | Lubbock, Texas, USA |
| Height | 6 ft 1 in (1.85 m) |
| Weight | 164 lbs (74 kg) |
| Nationality | American |
| Team | Atlanta Hawks (#11) |
| Position | Point Guard |
| Hair Type | 2C–3A loose curls |
| Known For | Deep shooting, viral hairstyle |
| Net Worth (Est.) | $100+ million |
| Social Media | Instagram: @traeyoung |
Hair Type & Signature Style
Trae Young’s natural hair type is a loose, curly texture, often categorized between 2C and 3A. This means his curls are not tight coils but soft waves that tend to frizz easily—especially in high-humidity environments like packed NBA arenas. This texture, while stylish, can also make thinning or uneven density appear more pronounced, particularly when bright lights hit from above. Trae often styles his hair with a high curly top fade, where the sides are tightly tapered and the top is left voluminous. It’s a signature look that blends urban fashion with athletic utility, allowing movement while still maintaining a defined structure. His style is not only unique among NBA players but also has inspired fans to imitate it, particularly younger players and TikTok creators.
The Balding Conversation Begins
By the time Trae entered the league in 2018, whispers about his hairline and crown had already started. Fans on Reddit and Twitter began posting screenshots and comparisons, noting the visible thinning at the crown and recession around the temples. By 2021, the jokes had turned into viral memes. Opposing fans, particularly during the Hawks’ playoff battles, would chant “Trae is balding” in arenas—a move that quickly grabbed national attention. The New York Times even ran a profile discussing the public’s obsession with his hair. For someone constantly in the spotlight, every angle captured on a broadcast became fuel for speculation. While some found humor in the situation, others debated whether the criticism crossed a line, especially considering how appearance-based ridicule can often feel personal.
Trae’s Confident Response
Unlike many public figures who try to dodge personal criticisms, Trae addressed the issue directly—and with remarkable grace. In a 2022 interview, he stated:
“My hair is different than a lot of people’s… Obviously, my hair is thin on the top, so it looks like a bald spot. But I really could care less. If that’s what makes them sleep good at night… I’m cool.”
This calm, unapologetic response silenced many critics and showcased a level of self-confidence rare in athletes so young. Rather than letting the commentary get to him, Trae embraced his hair as part of who he is. His perspective is both refreshing and important, especially in a culture that tends to overanalyze appearance. His reaction not only reflected his maturity but also sent a subtle message to his fans: You don’t have to conform to standards to feel good about yourself.
Has He Had a Hair Transplant?
Over the past couple of seasons, Trae’s hair has appeared noticeably fuller, particularly at the crown. This visual change has led to intense speculation online about whether he underwent a hair transplant, specifically FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction)—a method popular among athletes and celebrities. Several Turkish and American hair clinics have published blog posts analyzing his before-and-after images, pointing out signs of new density and improved coverage. While no official statement or confirmation has been made by Trae, experts suggest that even if he hasn’t had surgery, he may be using PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy or laser treatments to help promote growth. Alternatively, the improved look could simply be the result of better styling techniques, lighting, and product use. Regardless, it’s a noticeable shift—and fans are watching closely.
Public Perception Over Time
Trae Young’s hair has remained one of the more curious topics in sports culture—not because it’s inherently bizarre, but because it became a symbol of internet virality. What began as subtle observations turned into memes, chants, and eventually full-blown articles. The New York Times called his hairstyle “an optical illusion” and suggested that his hairline had taken on a life of its own in pop culture. What’s notable is that despite all the attention, Trae has never drastically changed his appearance to please the crowd. He’s stuck with the style that he likes, even while facing criticism. In doing so, he’s unintentionally become a symbol for embracing what makes you different, and showing that performance—not appearance—is what really matters.
Haircare: What Might Be Behind the Transformation
Although Trae hasn’t shared his exact haircare routine, professionals who work with curly or thinning hair suggest that he’s likely following a regimen that includes hydrating curl creams, leave-in conditioners, and regular trims to shape the fade. For thinning areas, many experts recommend DHT-blocking shampoos, minoxidil foam, and even low-level light therapy to promote hair health. Barbers also play a huge role in maintaining Trae’s look. A fresh taper every two weeks helps give the illusion of fuller hair on top, while the fade along the sides enhances contrast and volume. Whether it’s products, professional help, or both, Trae has clearly figured out what works for him—and it’s paying off.
Why His Hair Matters to Fans
To outsiders, it might seem silly that a basketball player’s hair would be such a topic of national attention. But in reality, this is about more than just hair. Trae Young’s story resonates because it reflects the pressures of being in the public eye—especially when you look different from the “expected” norm. His journey with hair has sparked conversations about male confidence, grooming culture, and the double standards celebrities face. For young men who might be experiencing hair thinning themselves, seeing Trae own his look with pride is empowering. He’s become a quiet role model for accepting change, standing tall, and staying authentic no matter what critics say.
Conclusion
Trae Young’s hair journey is just as honest and gutsy as his basketball game. He’s faced criticism, speculation, and public commentary—but through it all, he’s remained calm, confident, and unapologetically himself. Whether he’s had help through treatments or simply refined his style, one thing is clear: Trae Young owns his look, and it’s become part of what defines him—not just as a player, but as a person. In a world obsessed with perfection, he reminds us that real confidence is about being true to who you are—even when the spotlight is the brightest.
FAQs:
What hair type does Trae Young have?
Trae Young has a 2C–3A curl pattern, which means loose, defined curls that can appear frizzy or thin depending on styling and moisture.
Did Trae Young get a hair transplant?
There is no confirmed information that Trae Young underwent a transplant. However, fans and some clinics have speculated about potential restoration procedures like FUE or PRP due to improved hair density.
Why do people say Trae Young is balding?
Fans started noticing thinning at the crown and a receding hairline early in his career. Arena lighting and camera angles often exaggerated the appearance, leading to viral memes and jokes.
How did Trae Young respond to hair criticism?
He addressed the comments directly, stating that he knows his hair looks different and he’s completely fine with it. He embraced the conversation without letting it affect his confidence.
How does Trae Young maintain his hairstyle?
Though his routine isn’t public, it’s likely that Trae uses curl-specific products, regular fade cuts, and possibly treatments like DHT-blocking shampoos or PRP therapy to maintain his current look.
Also Read: Tara Yummy Age & Bio – Who She Is Behind the Username
