Deciding on the correct hair loss treatment is important. Especially with so many available. Hair loss treatment can vary for men and women. Along with the hair loss condition. For example genetic pattern baldness to traction alopecia. Chemical damage to medically induced. Treatment can vary in application. For example, prescription drugs and over the counter lotions. To hair loss therapy treatments and supplements. With three FDA approved hair loss treatments. It must be understood that results will vary from person to person. Consult a specialist before starting any treatment.
(Minoxidil) Regaine/Rogaine®
In the late 1970s, the drug company Upjohn created a drug called minoxidil. Initially, the treatment was developed for high blood pressure. As a side effect, it was discovered that patients grew hair. Candidates applied a 2% solution to the scalp. As a result, it was found that fine hairs grew longer.
Minoxidil stimulates the hair follicles’ growth phase. Consequently hairs grow thicker and longer. Minoxidil can also slow the rate of hair loss. It helps in approximately 70%-75% of cases. Approximately 50% experience hair re-growth. The topical solution is available over-the-counter. Without a prescription. Now available in 2% and 5% concentrations. For men and women. The treatment can be applied twice daily.
A change in hair fall can take two-four months. Before there is a noticeable drop in hair fall. Then around six to see improved hair growth. Often, initial growth is fine, short hairs. Known as vellus hair. As with any treatment. Minoxidil must be used continually. otherwise the benefits stop. Use as prescribed to achieve the best results. If you stop hair loss will recommence. The main side effect of Minoxidil occurs in approximately 2% of patients. This can include, skin itching, scaling, and redness. As a result, the use of a propylene glycol free Minoxidil solution may alleviate these symptoms.
(Finasteride) Propecia®
FDA approved as a hair loss treatment in 1997. A 1 mg pill of finasteride. It was proven to treat genetic male hair loss. In clinical trials. Propecia® stopped hair loss in over 80% of cases. It also stimulated hair re-growth in around 50% of cases.
Male pattern hair loss is due to the formation of dihydrotestosterone (DHT). As a result, triggering the hair loss gene. Generally over the top of the scalp. DHT causes increased hair shedding. As well as the gradual miniaturisation of the hair. Consequently this leads to permanent hair loss. Finasteride inhibits type II 5-alpha-reductase. This enzyme is the catalyst that produces the DHT. Combining with testosterone. Therefore, by reducing DHT production the process of hair loss can be reduced.
The five-year data on Propecia® indicates the hair count increases during the first year. While hair mass and thickness can increase for up to two years. The finding was that patients had on average 277 more hairs per 1-inch circle. This was compared with patients receiving the placebo. Finasteride has side effects. That can occur while being used. As a result, stop when the medication is stopped. One side effect is a change in sexual desire or function. Which occurs in 2% of men. Pregnant women and women of childbearing age should not take or handle the medication.
Low-Level Laser Therapy
Low-Level Lasers or “cold” lasers. Because they do not release energy in the form of heat. The light wavelength repairs damaged tissues. By stimulating blood circulation. As well as cell reproduction. As a result, this encourages the regeneration of normal, healthy tissues.
During the 1960s and 1970s, researchers used low-level lasers to evaluate their potential. This was particularly for the bio-stimulating effects on living tissues. It was during experiments on patients with leg ulcers finding were made. That the hair follicles surrounding the area being treated by the low-level laser grew new hair. Laser light appears to stimulate microcirculation. At the same time, decrease inflammation and improve cellular metabolism and protein synthesis. Furthermore, European studies suggest that LLLT increases blood and lymph circulation. This occurs at the hair roots and stimulates follicular cells, which may cause hair to grow thicker and stronger.
Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy – PRP
Blood platelets promote healing. Also accelerates tissue regeneration. PRP can help stimulate dormant hair follicles. As a result can be used on a variety of hair loss conditions. As well as after a hair transplant.
Platelets are made up of intracellular structures such as glycogen, lysosomes, and alpha granules. These contain clotting and growth factors. Medical literature in Europe and the United States confirms the safety of PRP. The platelets are first separated from the blood. The concentration of platelets is injected back into body. The injections occur in multiple sites. The high concentration of growth factors also stimulates blood flow. As a result helps hair growth.
PRP therapy is not suitable for all. For example, patients who have a history of heavy smoking. As well as drug certain medical conditions.
Mesotherapy
Mesotherapy is a non-surgical therapy. Using a combination of elements. They can consist of natural plant extracts and homoeopathic agents. As well as vasodilators, finasteride and minoxidil. Also vitamins and minerals. The active ingredients can be customised. Dependent on the hair loss cause.
As a result, the principle of Mesotherapy is based on the hair loss cause. For example if there is a lack of nutrient or poor blood circulation. Or a possibly hormone imbalances. In a men or women. For men DHT is the trigger of male pattern baldness. With mesotherapy the scalp can receive an injection or boost. As a result, can stimulate the hair follicles. Improve the blood circulation to improve hair growth.
The microinjections deliver the treatment just below the epidermal layer. This is at a depth of about 1 mm beneath the skin. There is little to no discomfort. Individuals with medical conditions should seek professional advice first. Such as skin complaints, dermal inflammations, diabetes, haemophilia, and pregnancy. As the treatment may affect a pre-existing health condition. That said, dandruff is a scalp condition that can benefit from Mesotherapy.
Vitamins and Minerals
The body needs essential vitamins and minerals. As a vital component to the bodies health. They help strengthen bones, heal wounds, and support the immune system. They convert food into energy. As well as repair cellular damage. Hair is often referred to as a barometer for health.
A bad hair day can result in lank or lifeless hair. Often a result of burning the candle at both ends. Also, not receiving the essential vitamins and minerals required. Vitamins are organic and can be broken down by heat, air, or acid. Minerals are inorganic. They hold their chemical composition. It’s harder to transport vitamins from food as well as other sources. Because cooking and storage can deactivate the compounds.
A poor diet will result in an unacceptable level of vitamins and minerals. This can affect the health of the hair and scalp. Maintaining a balanced diet can help the health and quality of hair growth. It is advised to consult a physician before using this or any dietary supplement. As a hair loss treatment. Especially if pregnant or nursing mothers. Also, individuals with bleeding disorders, minors under the age of 18 years of age, or with a known medical condition.
Hair Restoration Europe (HRE) is an information and clinic directory. As a result, does not favour or recommend any one clinic. The views of this site are independent of any advice or assessment made by a hair restoration clinic.
HRE takes no responsibility for the advice or assessment you receive from a clinic. Especially a hair transplant. A surgical procedure. With permanent results. Protocols may vary from clinic to clinic. Do not assume all clinic standards are the same. We strongly recommend you spend time and research. Before committing yourself to a decision.