While everyone experiences some level of hair loss during their life, in most cases hair will grow back naturally. For some, family history, medications or a health condition can increase the risk of alopecia (baldness). Alopecia affects men, women and even children, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Treatments are available to help accelerate hair growth, however, although there is no cure for the condition. Always consult your physician to determine the best option before moving forward.
Minoxidil
The Federal Drug Administration approves minoxidil as a nonprescription treatment for baldness. Apply the liquid or foam into your scalp twice daily to reduce the risk for additional hair loss and to promote regrowth. Results can take up to three months, and you may notice that new hair is thinner and shorter, according to the Mayo Clinic. Some people experience side effects from minoxidil, including scalp irritation. Expect your new hair to stop growing if you discontinue use of the drug.
Finasteride
Finasteride is a pill approved by the FDA for daily use and has been shown to slow hair loss. Many who take the pill experience the growth of new hair after several months. Benefits stop once you quit using finasteride, and side effects include reduced sexual function and sex drive. Finasteride is not approved for women, as the pill is dangerous for those who are pregnant or of childbearing age.
Other Drugs
The FDA has approved corticosteroids as a treatment for baldness. Cortisone is injected into your scalp twice each month, and results are sometimes visible in four weeks. Your doctor may recommend corticosteroid pills for excessive hair loss, while ointments and creams are also available, according to the Mayo Clinic. Anthralin, when used as an ointment or cream on your scalp, may result in the growth of new hair after 12 weeks. The FDA has also approved Anthralin.
Surgical Options
In extreme cases, your dermatologist may recommend hair transplant surgery. The American Academy of Dermatology reports that during the procedure, a surgeon takes small plugs of skin containing hairs from your scalp and then implants the plugs into the bald areas. Scalp reduction surgery is also an option and involves the surgical reduction of the bald part of your scalp. The Mayo Clinic recommends the use of only board-certified surgeons and reports that surgical procedures to treat hair loss are expensive and carry the risk of scarring and infection. You may wait up to eight months to see results.
What You Can Do
Keep your hair healthy by eating foods that contain plenty of protein and iron and avoid fad diets, as poor nutrition typically leads to hair loss. Tight hairstyles, including ponytails and braids, increase your chance of hair breakage, as does twisting and pulling your hair. Never brush your hair excessively or have it over-styled, as chemicals used to dye, tint, bleach and straighten hair can damage hair shafts and lead to breakage when used improperly, according to Go Ask Alice!, a health resource from Columbia University.
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