The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that hair loss affects more than 80 million Americans, more than half of whom are men. The causes are many--heredity, alopecia areata and medication interactions among them. People who lose their hair may be embarrassed or develop self-esteem issues. But treatments ranging from prescription medications to surgical procedures are available.
Minoxidil
Minoxidil is the only Food and Drug Administration-approved medication for hair loss in men and women. First marketed under the brand name Rogaine by McNeil-PPC, minoxidil was approved in a 2 percent strength with prescription in 1988. In 1996, the 2 percent solution was made available over the counter for men and women. In 2006, Rogaine became available in a 5 percent strength. Minoxidil works by stimulating hair follicles that may have shrunk, according to McNeil. This triggers new hair growth.
Finasteride
Finasteride is a medication for men that can fight baldness. The National Library of Medicine reports that it is used primarily as a treatment for enlarged prostate under the brand name Proscar. Doctors also prescribe it, under the brand name Propecia, to restore hair for those with male pattern baldness. According to Merck, Propecia's manufacturer, the orally ingested pill reduces dihydrotestosterone, the powerful hormone that shrinks hair follicles. By blocking DHT at the scalp line, finasteride facilitates the growth of hair in pattern-loss areas.
Treating the Thyroid
People with overactive or underactive thyroids can experience hair thinning. The thyroid regulates the body's metabolism, directing energy to cells, including hair cells. When thyroid disease develops, hair cells are often starved of nutrients and hormones that can stimulate growth, according to the American Thyroid Association. Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can be treated with medication, which will also resolve the hair loss issue.
Hair Transplant
Doctors can use existing hair to cover baldness via hair transplant surgery. Candidates for hair transplant must have noticeable hair loss but healthy growth on the back and sides of their heads, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Skin grafts from these areas are taken and then stretched over the bald area. The grafts camouflage the baldness and give the appearance of a fuller head of hair.
Hair Pieces
Hair pieces, such as toupees, hair weaves and hair prostheses, are the primary nonsurgical methods of covering baldness. The American Hair Loss Council says that the specific application depends on the amount of existing hair. People with strong hair roots can have synthetic or human hair dyed to match their own shade and woven into the existing hairs. Toupees and prosthetics cover larger surfaces and are attached by double-sided tape, waterproof adhesives or a vacuum base.
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