Hi Heidi. I replied earlier but must have pressed wrong button as it didn't go to comment box. Anyway to reply to your questions...my biopsies were done on areas with hair as the bald spots were already 'burnt out' according to dermatologist. I then found out not only did I have lichen planopilaris I also had an even rarer subdivision called Graham-Little Syndrome where I lose other bodily hair, which I have. In my opinion waiting to buzz hair is worse than doing it. When it was done I felt great and proud of myself as the stress of covering up my falling hair was gone. The spots are now almost none existent as exposure to the air soon makes them fade. Good luck! Gail x