Although baldness cannot be cured and is typically a result of genetic makeup, hormones and age, there are a number of hair loss treatments and vitamins that are available to help encourage new hair growth and prevent further hair loss. For some types of baldness, such as alopecia, hair may begin growing again without any treatment.
Rogaine
Rogaine, also known as Minoxidil, is an over-the-counter medication that has been approved for use by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This topical hair loss medicine comes in both a liquid and foam solution that should be rubbed onto your scalp twice a day in order to prevent further hair loss and help hair grow. However, this new hair growth can take up to 12 weeks to begin and stops when Rogaine usage is stopped. New hair often presents as shorter as or thinner than original hair, however, there may be enough new hair growth to hide bald spots.
Finasteride
Finasteride is an FDA-approved prescription medication that treats male pattern baldness. However, it is not approved for use by women, as it poses a considerable danger to women of childbearing age, especially pregnant women. This medication is available as a daily pill, helping to provide a reduction of hair loss and some new hair growth. Hair loss and new hair growth can take several months to take effect, and the benefits stop if you stop using Finasteride.
Corticosteroids
Cortisone injections shot directly into the scalp may also be effective for those looking for a remedy from thinning hair from alopecia areata. These FDA approved injections are repeated monthly and new hair may be seen within four weeks. Typically, corticosteroid pills are prescribed in between the injections. There are also corticosteroid creams and ointments available but these generally aren't as effective as the injections.
Anthralin (Dritho-Scalp)
This FDA approved medication can be prescribed as an ointment or a cream. It should be applied to the scalp and washed off once a day. Anthralin is a synthetic substance that may encourage new hair growth, however, it may take up to 12 weeks for new hair to be visible.
Biotin (Vitamin H)
Biotin, also known as vitamin H, is important for promoting new hair growth. This is a B-complex vitamin that helps to strengthen hair and grow new hair. It can be found in numerous cosmetic products to help both hair and nails grow faster. This water-soluble vitamin is found in brewer's yeast, walnuts, almonds, sardines, whole grains and bananas. Egg yolk provides a good source for vitamin H, but raw egg white contains a protein called Avidin, which obstructs the body's absorption of biotin.
Vitamins C and E
These antioxidant vitamins help increase circulation in the scalp and throughout the rest of the body. Antioxidant foods include blueberries, cherries, tomatoes, peppers and squash.
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