Hair loss can occur for a variety of reasons. These include age, genetics, stress or even disease. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the average person should only lose about 25 to 100 hairs each day. Although it's nearly impossible to keep a count of hair lost, noticable thinning and bald spots can make you aware of a problem. When balding and thinning occurs, there are only two Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved hair formulas available on the market, although other treatment methods may be used to treat underlining causes of hair loss.
Minoxidil (Rogaine)
One of the most well-known hair-growth formulas is minoxidil (Rogaine). Rogaine is a non-prescription medication approved by the FDA for hair regrowth. More specifically, Rogaine products are approved for hair loss from androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness) and alopecia areata (hair loss produced by an autoimmune disease). Rogaine works by expanding and revitalizing hair follicles that have shrunken in size, making it difficult for hair strands to grow correctly. Applied twice daily, Rogaine results last only as long as you use the product.
Finasteride (Propecia)
Another common treatment formula for hair loss is finasteride, more commonly known as Propecia. Propecia is also an FDA-approved treatment for hair growth, especially pattern baldness. Propecia is taken in pill form and directly acts on a hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is converted from testosterone. DHT is partially responsible for the shrinking of hair follicles seen in pattern baldness. Propecia prevents testosterone from being converted into DHT, reducing the overall levels and effects of the hormone.
Anthralin (Dritho-Scalp)
Anthralin (Dritho-Scalp) is a formula not specifically targeted at preventing hair loss, but is used to treat psoriasis and other skin conditions of the scalp. According to the Mayo Clinic, by treating the scalp with this formula, new hair growth may be stimulated, especially for those who are suffering from alopecia areata.
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