When someone experiences hair loss, it's commonly a result of pattern baldness. Both men and women can suffer from this hereditary condition, but it's by far more prevalent in the male populace. Though hair loss itself doesn't require treatment for any reason other than cosmetic, many people want to restore their full head of hair. Currently, there are very few products that can provide hair regrowth.
Minoxidil
According to both the American Academy of Dermatology and the Mayo Clinic, topical solutions containing minoxidil can effectively cause hair regrowth, especially in the early stages of hair loss. Available in either a 2 percent or 5 percent concentration, the topical foam is applied directly to the areas of the scalp experiencing hair loss. Some products containing minoxidil are advertised as either for men or for women, but the ingredients are typically the same. It's used twice-daily for best results. At this time, the 5 percent solution is only available by prescription.
Finasteride
Finasteride is a prescription medication used to treat pattern baldness in men. It's taken by mouth once a day to prevent dihydrotestosterone, or DHT, from binding to hair follicles, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. DHT essentially deprives nutrients from the dermal papilla, which is the part of the hair follicle that produces the hair. When production of DHT is reduced, most people experience a reduction in hair loss. However, others do tend to experience hair regrowth during its use.
Spironolactone
Women suffering pattern baldness can experience hair regrowth through the use of spironolactone, according to the American Hair Loss Association. It's considered an androgen receptor inhibitor, which impedes the production of androgens such as DHT that could be prompting the hair loss. It's taken by mouth each day for best results.
Corticosteroids
The Mayo Clinic and the American Academy of Dermatology agree that cortisone can help to provide hair regrowth. It can be used in a topical formula or administered through injections. Though it's not necessarily a "product" to treat hair loss, it's known to grow new hair for women, especially when suffering from alopecia areata. Alopecia areata is different from androgenetic alopecia, more commonly known as either male-pattern baldness or female-pattern baldness. Consult a doctor before using this form of treatment, since it doesn't work for everyone.
Member Comments