Some men may look great without hair. Michael Jordon comes to mind. But for most men, losing their hair may make them feel old and less attractive. There are medications available with and without a prescription for men experiencing hair loss from “common baldness,” otherwise known as male-pattern baldness or permanent-pattern baldness, according to the FamilyDoctor.org article “Hair Loss and Its Causes.” But there could be other reasons that your hair is disappearing. A hormonal imbalance resulting in too much estrogen is one possible cause. Hair loss may indicate a thyroid problem or a serious disease.
Step 1
Take out the cornrows. Wearing your hair in tight hairstyles, using hot oil treatments and getting perms may all lead to hair loss and possible scarring of your scalp. Hair may grow back if no scarring has occurred, according to FamilyDoctor.org.
Step 2
Ask your doctor if your medication could be the culprit. Drugs used to treat depression, gout, high blood pressure or heart problems can lead to hair falling out, according to FamilyDoctor.org. This can be reversed if you cease taking the meds, but only do so if advised by your physician.
Step 3
Get checked for lupus and diabetes. Symptoms of these and possibly other diseases is hair loss. While you’re at the doctor’s office, ask your doctor to check your thyroid too. An underactive or overactive thyroid gland may also lead to excessive hair loss.
Step 4
Try using Rogaine. Rogaine and extra-strength Rogaine contain a drug called minoxidil that can stop common baldness, according to FamilyDoctor.org. Apply the Rogaine twice a day to your scalp for at least six months before you decide if it is working. Dr. Alan Bauman says that Rogaine may take six to 12 months before noticeable improvements are seen. Dr. Bauman recommends the foam version, as it is less irritating to the scalp in an article for Chicago's "Daily Herald" called “Women get to the Root of Hair Loss.”
Step 5
Take Propecia. This oral medication is FDA-approved for men and has been shown to stop hair loss in 90 percent of men who take it, according to the "Daily Herald." Get a prescription from your doctor. Propecia contains the drug finasteride and is not advised for women.
Step 6
Use laser therapy treatments to increase cell metabolism and blood circulation to the scalp. Several treatments over the course of a few months may help men who are losing their hair, according to the "Daily Herald." Find an office that offers treatments or use an in-home laser comb or brush.
Things You'll Need
- Rogaine
- Propecia
Member Comments