Hair loss treatments that actually help (and how to pick one)
Noticed thinning? About half of people see visible hair loss by age 50, and that can feel really stressful. Good news: you don’t have to guess which option to try. This page walks through the treatments that have real evidence, plus simple checks to figure out what might work for you.
Proven medical options
Minoxidil (topical): Apply once or twice daily. Over-the-counter 5% foam or 2% solution helps many people slow loss and regrow fine hairs within 3–6 months. Keep using it — stopping reverses gains in a few months. Side effects are usually mild scalp irritation.
Finasteride (oral, men only): A 1 mg daily tablet lowers DHT and can stop hair loss and increase density for many men within 3–6 months. A small percentage report sexual side effects; discuss risks with your doctor before starting.
Spironolactone and topical anti-androgens (women): For female pattern hair loss, spironolactone or topical formulations can reduce hormonal effects on follicles. These are prescription options — check with a clinician about pregnancy risks and dosing.
Ketoconazole shampoo: Used 1–2 times weekly, it can reduce scalp inflammation and support other treatments. It’s not a primary cure but helps as part of a plan.
Procedures and advanced options
PRP (platelet-rich plasma): Your own blood gets spun and injected into the scalp. Many dermatologists report improved thickness after 3 sessions spaced a month apart, though results vary and repeat treatments are often needed.
Low-level laser therapy (LLLT): Devices like combs or caps can boost hair density for some people over several months. It’s painless and easiest when combined with topical or oral meds.
Hair transplant: For long-lasting restoration, follicular unit extraction (FUE) or strip surgery moves your healthy follicles to thinning areas. It works well if you have stable donor hair, but expect cost, recovery time, and some scarring.
Other options: Microneedling can boost topical absorption. Supplements help only if you have a diagnosed deficiency — iron, vitamin D, or biotin deficiency should be tested and treated specifically.
How to choose and what to expect
Step 1 — Get checked: Ask your doctor for basic labs (thyroid, iron, ferritin, vitamin D) and a scalp exam. Pattern hair loss looks different from patchy or sudden shedding, and the cause changes treatment choice.
Step 2 — Start a low-risk plan: Try minoxidil plus a ketoconazole shampoo while you wait for test results. If you’re a man and want stronger results, discuss finasteride with your clinician.
Step 3 — Be patient and track progress: Most treatments need 3–6 months to show change, and better results often appear at 9–12 months. Take photos every month to see small improvements.
When to see a specialist: Rapid shedding, scarring, pain, or sudden patches need a dermatologist right away. They’ll advise on medical therapy, PRP, or transplants if appropriate.
Bottom line: Start with a clear diagnosis, combine evidence-based meds with simple tests, and expect gradual change. Talk to a clinician before prescription drugs or procedures — sensible steps give the best chance to slow or reverse hair loss.
10 Alternatives to Propecia: What Actually Works for Hair Loss?
Exploring life beyond Propecia? This article dives into ten practical alternatives for tackling hair loss, breaking down how each one works, their benefits, and their drawbacks. From prescription meds to scalp massages and creative DIY approaches, you'll find honest insights for every option. The article balances scientific facts with real-world experience, making it easy to figure out what might really work for you. By the end, you'll have a clear perspective on what's out there—no fluff, just solid advice.