It's natural to experience some hair loss as a person ages. Even women start to notice a gradual thinning as they advance in years. As someone grows older, the rate of hair growth simply slows, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. But when this thinning begins at an early age, it may be a result of hormones, pattern baldness or another condition entirely. To treat hair loss, it's often necessary to consult with a doctor or dermatologist. This is largely due to the fact that not all products can encourage hair regrowth for all conditions. For women, there are a number of medications that not only stop hair loss but also stimulate new growth.
Minoxidil
According to the Mayo Clinic, women suffering from androgenetic alopecia, or female-pattern baldness, can experience a reduction of hair loss and potential regrowth of hair with the use of minoxidil. Although this medication comes in two different strengths, it's only available in the 2 percent concentration for women. However, the American Hair Loss Association explains that dermatologists do prescribe higher concentrations for some women. Regardless of the strength, it can take upwards of eight months to see results.
Cimetidine
The American Hair Loss Association claims that women suffering from androgenetic alopecia may also respond favorably to cimetidine. Cimetidine is an H-2 blocker used in the treatment of digestive disorders. But higher dosages can actually prevent DHT, also known as dihydrotestosterone, from binding to follicles, which cause them to shrink and prompt hair loss. Unlike minoxidil, cimetidine should only be taken by women who suffer from hair loss.
Spironolactone
Another medication that holds a great deal of potential in treating women with female-pattern baldness is spironolactone. Similar in nature to cimetidine, spironolactone affects DHT. But instead of just preventing the substance from binding to the follicles, it also impedes its production, according to the American Hair Loss Association. If levels of DHT decrease in the body, women become less likely to suffer further hair loss and may even experience some hair regrowth.
Hormone Replacement
For women suffering from hair loss due to menopause, hormone replacement therapy may help prevent further thinning and can encourage hair regrowth, asserts the American Hair Loss Association. Due to the decrease in estrogen and progesterone during this time in life, women can start to lose their hair. By countering this imbalance with hormone replacement, it becomes possible to see new hair growth.
Corticosteroids
The Mayo Clinic recommends the use of corticosteroids in women suffering hair loss due to alopecia areata. In this situation the solution is applied directly to scalp, administered through injections or taken orally. What works for one woman may not work for the next, so a doctor or dermatologist will often recommend one method over another based on medical history, severity of hair loss, age and other factors.
Oral Contraceptives
Another potential treatment for women suffering from female-pattern baldness is oral contraceptives. Much like hormone replacement therapy, birth control pills change hormonal balance in a woman's body. The only forms of contraceptives that can treat this type of alopecia are those with a low androgen index, according to the American Hair Loss Association. A doctor or dermatologist can recommend the correct type for the individual.
Ketoconazole
Products containing ketoconazole may also prove helpful for treating women with female-pattern baldness, states the American Hair Loss Association. Prescription strength products tend to work better than over-the-counter shampoos, so it may become necessary to talk to a doctor or dermatologist to use this as a form of treatment.
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