Understanding the Causes Effective Hair Loss Treatment

 

Hair Loss Treatment

Hair loss, also known as alopecia, has many potential causes such as genetics, aging, medical conditions, or medications. One of the most common causes of hair loss is androgenetic alopecia, a hereditary condition commonly known as male or female pattern baldness. This type of hair loss is related to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), by-product of the androgen testosterone. Genetics determines hair loss sensitivity to DHT. For men, this often results in a receding hairline and bald spot on top of the head. Women experience a general thinning over the entire scalp.

Another common cause of hair loss is telogen effluvium. Hair Loss Treatment occurs when a large number of hairs enter the resting telogen phase of the hair growth cycle all at once, instead of slowly over time. This can be temporary and often results from childbirth, crash diets, extreme weight loss, surgery, illness, emotional or physical stress. Telogen effluvium typically resolves on its own within a few months once the inciting event is over. However, it may worsen an existing hereditary pattern of hair loss.

Autoimmune diseases such as alopecia areata can cause hair loss in patches. In severe cases it may result in the entire scalp being affected. The exact cause of alopecia areata is unknown but it is linked to autoimmunity with genetics playing a role. It most often affects the scalp but may also involve hair loss on other areas of the body.

Topical Hair Loss Treatment

Minoxidil, sold under the brand name Rogaine, is the only topical medication approved by the FDA to treat hair loss. It works by prolonging the growth phase of hair. Minoxidil comes as a topical liquid, foam or gel that is applied directly to the scalp once or twice daily. It may help regrow hair and reduce hair shedding. However, results are not guaranteed and treatment must be continued indefinitely to maintain benefits. Common side effects include itching or irritation of the scalp.

Ketoconazole is an antifungal medication that may help hair loss treatment in certain individuals. It works by inhibiting testosterone's conversion to DHT in the scalp. Ketoconazole comes as a 2% shampoo that is massaged onto the scalp and left on for 3-5 minutes before rinsing out. It may help reduce shedding and stimulate hair regrowth. There is a risk of allergic reaction or skin irritation with use.

Low level laser therapy uses a hand-held laser device to apply beams of light energy to the scalp. This is thought to stimulate hair follicles and increase blood circulation. Multiple treatment sessions over several months may help encourage hair regrowth. Side effects are rare but may include minor skin irritation. Results tend to be more gradual compared to minoxidil or medications.

Essential oils often promoted for hair growth include rosemary, lavender, cedarwood, peppermint and tea tree oils. However, there is currently little evidence these are effective standalone treatments for hereditary hair loss when used topically. They may provide mild benefits for scalp health and reducing shedding associated with temporary hair loss conditions. Any positive effects are typically subtle and short-term.

Oral Medications for Hair Loss Treatment

For male and female pattern baldness, oral anti-androgens are typically more effective than topical treatments alone. Finasteride, sold under the brand name Propecia, is a prescription medication that works by inhibiting the conversion of testosterone to DHT. It comes as 1 mg pills taken once daily by men. Common side effects include sexual dysfunction, decreased libido and erectile dysfunction.

Dutasteride, sold as Avodart, is similar to finasteride but more strongly inhibits both types I and II 5-alpha reductase. This further lowers DHT levels in the body. It has potential for slightly better hair regrowth than finasteride but side effect risk is also higher. Both medications may take 4-6 months to see benefits, which are lost if treatment is discontinued.

Minoxidil is also available as a 2% or 5% oral solution for women. However, it carries a greater risk of side effects compared to topical forms. Spironolactone, a potassium-sparing diuretic, is sometimes used “off-label” by women as it has anti-androgen effects. It may help with scalp shedding and regrowth associated with female pattern hair loss. Monitoring is needed due to potential side effects involving potassium levels, blood pressure control and menstrual irregularities.

Other medications with limited evidence for hair loss treatment include estrogen-based birth control pills or hormonal replacement therapy in menopausal or post-menopausal women. These work by counteracting androgens responsible for hereditary balding patterns. However, risks must be weighed individually for any medical treatment option.

Hair Transplants for Permanent Results

A hair transplant involves surgically removing hair follicles from the back and sides of the scalp where hair tends to be resistant to balding, known as donor areas. These follicular units are then implanted into balding recipient areas. This can significantly improve hair density and appearance. Follicular unit extraction and follicular unit transplantation are often performed under local anesthesia using microscopes for precision.

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