Hair loss affects an estimated 80 million Americans, with the two most common causes being female and male pattern baldness, also known as androgenic alopecia, and stress-related hair loss, or telogen effluvium. While pattern baldness is a slowly progressive process that typically occurs as we age, stress-related hair loss can result in excessive shedding, often following a stressful event or illness. In order to regrow hair, it’s important to identify the underlying cause of the hair loss.
At-home treatments for regrowing hair include the use of minoxidil, which is recommended for both male and female pattern baldness, as well as telogen effluvium. Hair growth supplements and red light therapy caps and combs are also options to consider. While supplements and red light therapy have shown promise in some studies, it’s important to consult with a dermatologist to determine the best course of action for your individual situation.
In-office treatments for hair regrowth may include oral minoxidil, spironolactone, finasteride, and platelet-rich plasma injections. Oral minoxidil may be recommended if topical minoxidil is not effective, while spironolactone is often prescribed for women experiencing female pattern hair loss. Finasteride is a prescription treatment for male pattern baldness that must be taken consistently in order to maintain results. Platelet-rich plasma injections involve concentrating platelets from the patient’s blood and injecting it back into the scalp to stimulate hair growth.
It typically takes about six months to see results from at-home treatments such as minoxidil and hair growth supplements. Red light therapy has shown promise in stimulating collagen production and increasing blood circulation in the scalp. In-office treatments such as spironolactone and finasteride can also result in noticeable differences within a few months of consistent use. Platelet-rich plasma injections may require multiple procedures, with about 16 injections needed to stimulate hair regrowth.
Ultimately, determining the most effective treatment for regrowing hair will depend on the underlying cause of the hair loss. Consulting with a dermatologist can help identify the best course of action based on your individual situation. Whether you opt for at-home treatments such as minoxidil and hair growth supplements, or more advanced in-office treatments like platelet-rich plasma injections, there are a variety of options available to help you regrow hair and address the distressing issue of hair loss. By taking proactive steps and seeking expert guidance, you can work towards achieving a fuller, healthier head of hair.
