If you’re noticing thinning hair, the best hair loss treatment for you is going to depend on your unique needs. Genetics, hormones, stress and other factors are all possible causes for balding and hair loss. But the good news is that there are treatments out there to help you stop hair loss or slow it down.
There are many different hair loss treatment options, from over-the-counter products to prescription medications and even surgery. It’s important to work with a dermatologist who can evaluate your condition and recommend the right type of treatment for you.
Topical minoxidil, available over-the-counter (nonprescription) in liquid, foam and shampoo forms, stops thinning hair and stimulates new growth. This treatment requires consistent use in order to maintain the benefits, but it’s one of the most effective and inexpensive options for men battling baldness.
This formula works by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone, the primary cause of male pattern baldness. Using this product for six months can help regrow your hair and prevent further hair loss.
Another popular treatment is finasteride, which can be taken orally and is often prescribed in conjunction with surgery to slow baldness. This drug also works to block DHT, the main hormone that causes thinning and baldness.
While finasteride has a number of side effects, it’s still one of the most popular treatments for hair loss. It’s typically prescribed to women, but some dermatologists have found that it helps men too if used in conjunction with surgery.
Laser therapy has also been shown to promote regrowth in some cases of hair loss, like alopecia areata. Low-level laser light can be used to heat follicles, reducing inflammation and stimulating hair growth.
There are several different types of laser therapy. Some are based on low-level LED light that can be placed on the scalp. Other treatments are based on high-intensity, laser light that’s injected into the scalp or emitted from a device.
Biotin is a common ingredient in regrowth products because it’s known for its ability to support hair growth. This product from DS Laboratories contains the ingredient in a formula that also includes retinol and azelaic acid, which can block DHT and increase blood circulation to the scalp.
It’s safe to use, noninvasive and easy to apply. Massage two to three drops into your scalp every day and allow the product to work overnight.
A scalp scrub that includes sugar crystals to exfoliate the surface of your skin may be helpful if your thinning or balding is due to dry, flaking scalp or sebum buildup. Ouai St. Barts Cleansing Scalp and Body Sugar Scrub combines sugar with coconut to gently remove the buildup on the scalp and improve the overall health of your hair and scalp.
The American Crew Acumen Daily Thickening Shampoo helps reduce breakage and provides body and fullness to thinning hair, helping it look thicker and healthier. The shampoo also has glycerin and panthenol that moisturize the hair shaft to prevent future dryness.