Topical Hair Loss Treatments

Topical Hair Loss Treatments
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There has been much improvement for treating thinning hair over the years for both men and women. Those suffering from hair loss may find effective outcomes with topical hair loss treatments, many of which are anti-inflammatory products. In fighting hair loss, there may be certain unwelcome side effects. These side effects are the results of the body's natural immune system response. If gone uncontrolled, they can increase hair loss. However, with anti-inflammatory hair loss treatment products, scalp irritation can be minimized. It is important to consult with your health-care provider for various treatment options.

DHT Blockers

DHT blockers such as Revivogen, Crinagen, and progesterone creams claim to inhibit hair loss at the roots. These products claim to minimize hair loss by blocking the amount of dyhydrotestosterone or DHT present in the scalp. DHT is the male hormone responsible for thinning hair and hair loss. It binds with the receptor sites in hair follicles that are naturally vulnerable, acting as a vehicle for hair loss. According to the Hair Loss Learning Center, the success of these topical treatments in reducing DHT levels in the scalp has not been clinically proved. However, the potential for reducing DHT in the scalp only, not the body, is promising.

Rogaine

A clear alcohol-based solution, Rogaine is applied twice daily to the balding areas. The crown of the head has been known to show improvement in hair growth using this treatment. Minoxidil is the active ingredient in Rogaine and initially was used to treat high blood pressure until it was discovered that one side effect was hair growth. When Rogaine is used daily, the size of the hair follicles may increase, thus producing longer, thicker hairs. According to Hair Transplant Network, users of extra-strength Rogaine have reported success rates of 50 to 60 percent. Rogaine is the only topical hair loss treatment that is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, or FDA.

T/Gel Shampoos

The brand name for an assortment of shampoos for hair loss treatments is referred to as T/Gel. These products are anti-inflammatory agents designed to address side effects and scalp problems associated with hair loss treatments such as dandruff, flaky scalp, excessive oil, and itching. T/Gel shampoos and hair formulas consist of the product Neutar, which dissolves into the scalp, reducing scalp irritation. According to the Hair Loss Learning Center, this product treats crusty scalp build-up from problems with oily skin and psoriasis.

References

Article reviewed by GlennK Last updated on: Sep 10, 2010

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