Hair Loss Treatment: Ultimate Instructions & Tips

Hair loss is a common concern for many individuals, and finding the right treatment can be challenging. Whether you are experiencing thinning hair, receding hairline, or bald patches, it is essential to understand the available options and implement effective strategies. 

This TH Cosmetic‘s article will provide the ultimate instructions and tips for hair loss treatment. From lifestyle changes to medical interventions, we will explore various approaches that can help you address this issue and regain your confidence.

How to diagnose hair loss?

Diagnosing hair loss typically involves a combination of medical history assessment, physical examination, and, in some cases, additional tests. Here are the general steps involved in diagnosing hair loss:

Physical examination

Your healthcare provider will examine your scalp and hair to assess the pattern and severity of hair loss. They may look for inflammation, scaling, redness, or other abnormalities.

Medical history

Your healthcare provider will ask you questions about your hair loss, including when it started, any associated symptoms, family history of hair loss, medications you’re taking, recent illnesses or surgeries, and overall health.

Blood tests

Sometimes, blood tests may be ordered to check for underlying medical conditions that can cause hair loss. These tests may include a complete blood count (CBC), thyroid function tests, hormonal levels (such as testosterone and estrogen), iron, and vitamin D.

Scalp biopsy

If the cause of your hair loss is unclear from the above steps, a small scalp sample may be taken for a biopsy. This sample is examined under a microscope to identify underlying scalp conditions or abnormalities.

It is also a specialized test where photographs or video images of the affected areas of your scalp are taken to analyze your hair follicles’ density and growth rate.

Hair Loss Treatment

There are viable options for treating certain types of hair loss. It is possible to either reverse or at least decelerate the process of losing hair. In alopecia areata, where hair loss occurs in patches, hair may naturally regrow within a year without requiring best hair loss treatment for female.

Medication for hair loss

If an underlying disease is causing your hair loss, treating the disease will be necessary. If a certain medication is the culprit, your doctor may advise temporarily discontinuing it.

Medications are available to treat hereditary baldness, also known as pattern baldness.

Minoxidil (Rogaine)

Minoxidil, marketed under the name Rogaine, is accessible over-the-counter in liquid, foam, and shampoo forms. Women should apply the cream to their scalp once daily for the best effects. However, males should do it twice daily. Many people find the foam version more convenient when applied to damp hair.

Products containing minoxidil have demonstrated efficacy in either promoting hair growth or reducing the rate of hair loss, or occasionally both. Therapy usually lasts at least six months to stop additional hair loss and start hair regeneration.

Finasteride (Propecia)

A drug for males with a prescription is finasteride, sometimes referred to as Propecia. It is consumed orally every day. When using finasteride, many men see a decrease in hair loss, and some even see new hair growth. Several months may pass before you can tell if the medicine works for you. Any advantages must be continued to be used. For males over 60 years old, finasteride might be less effective.

Reduced libido drive and sexual function are rare adverse effects of finasteride, as is a slightly elevated risk of prostate cancer. Women who are or might become pregnant should refrain from handling broken or crushed medications.

Hair Transplant Surgery

Hair transplant surgery is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of hair follicles from one part of the body, typically the back or sides of the scalp (known as the donor area), and implanting them into the areas experiencing hair loss (known as the recipient area). This procedure is commonly used to treat male and female pattern baldness.

The surgery is performed under local anesthesia, and the two main techniques used are follicular unit transplantation (FUT) and follicular unit extraction (FUE). FUT involves removing a strip of scalp and dissecting it into individual follicular units for transplantation. FUE involves extracting individual follicular units directly from the donor area using a micro-punch tool.

After the surgery, the transplanted hair will initially fall out, but new hair growth should start within a few months. The final results are typically seen within 8-12 months, with the transplanted hair growing naturally and blending in with the existing hair.

Laser Therapy

Laser therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or red light therapy, is a non-invasive hair loss treatment for women for hair loss. It involves using red or near-infrared light to stimulate hair growth and improve the thickness and quality of existing hair.

The laser devices used in therapy emit low levels of light that penetrate the scalp and stimulate cellular activity within the hair follicles. This stimulation can increase blood flow, promote the production of new hair cells, and extend the growth phase of the hair cycle.

Laser therapy can be performed at home using handheld devices or specialized clinics. Treatment sessions are usually conducted a few times weekly, and noticeable results may take several months to become apparent.

It’s important to note that laser therapy may not be effective for everyone, and results can vary. It’s best to consult with a healthcare professional or specialist experienced in hair loss treatments to determine if laser therapy suits you.

Changing Your Lifestyle

Hair loss can sometimes be attributed to lifestyle factors or underlying health conditions. Making positive lifestyle changes can help improve your hair’s health and potentially slow down or prevent further hair loss. Here are some lifestyle changes that may be beneficial:

• Nutritious Diet: Ensure your diet is rich in essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and proteins. Include fruits, vegetables, lean meats, whole grains, and healthy fats to give your body the building blocks for healthy hair growth.
• Stress Management: High stress levels can contribute to hair loss. Implement stress reduction techniques such as exercise, meditation, yoga, or engaging in hobbies to promote overall well-being.
• Avoid Harsh Hair Treatments: Limit harsh chemicals, heat styling tools, and tight hairstyles that can damage your hair and contribute to breakage or hair loss.
• Regular Scalp Care: Maintain good scalp hygiene by keeping it clean and avoiding excessive scratching. Use gentle shampoos and conditioners that suit your hair type.
• Treat Underlying Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as hormonal imbalances, thyroid disorders, or scalp infections, can contribute to hair loss. Consult with a healthcare professional to diagnose and treat any underlying conditions.
• Avoid Smoking and Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Smoking and excessive alcohol intake can negatively impact overall health, including hair health. Quitting smoking and moderating alcohol consumption can positively affect your hair.

Home remedies

Hair loss can be a common concern for many people, and while it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to address underlying causes, some home remedies may help promote hair growth and reduce hair loss. Here are a few suggestions:

• Scalp massage: Gently massaging your scalp can help stimulate blood flow to the hair follicles, promoting hair growth. Use your fingertips to massage your scalp in circular motions for a few minutes daily.
• Aloe vera: Apply fresh aloe vera gel directly to your scalp and hair. Leave it on for about 1 hour before rinsing it off. Aloe vera has soothing properties and can help maintain a healthy scalp.
• Coconut oil: Massage warm coconut oil onto your scalp and leave it on overnight. Coconut oil can help moisturize the scalp and protect the hair from damage.
• Onion juice: Extract the juice from an onion and apply it directly to your scalp. Leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour before rinsing. Onion juice contains sulfur, which is believed to promote hair growth.
• Green tea: Brew a cup of green tea and let it cool. Apply it to your scalp and leave it on for an hour before rinsing. Green tea is rich in antioxidants that may help stimulate hair growth.
• Balanced diet: Ensure a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Proper nutrition is essential for healthy hair growth.

Ways to prevent hair loss

Here are some ways to prevent hair loss:

• Maintain a balanced diet: Eat a nutritious diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins. Include foods like leafy greens, fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and fish to provide essential nutrients for hair health.
• Avoid excessive heat and styling: Avoid hot styling tools like curling irons, straighteners, and blow dryers. Excessive heat can damage hair follicles and lead to hair loss. Opt for gentle styling methods when possible.
• Be gentle while washing and brushing: Avoid aggressive brushing or combing, which can cause breakage and hair loss. Use a wide-toothed comb or a brush with soft bristles to detangle your hair. When washing, use a gentle shampoo and conditioner, and avoid vigorous rubbing or towel drying.
• Protect hair from harsh chemicals: Minimize using hair dyes, bleach, and chemical hair loss treatment for men, as they can weaken the hair shaft and contribute to hair loss. If you use them, opt for natural or ammonia-free products and ensure proper hair care afterward.

When to see and what to ask your doctors?

When discussing weight loss with your doctor, scheduling an appointment to address your concerns and seek professional advice is important. Here are some suggestions on when to see your doctor and what questions to ask:

When to see your doctor?

• If you’re considering embarking on a weight loss journey.
• If you’ve been trying to lose weight but have yet to be successful.
• If you’re experiencing health issues related to your weight.
• If you have specific questions or concerns about weight loss.

Questions to ask your doctor?

• What is a healthy weight range based on my height, age, and medical history?
• What are the potential risks associated with my current weight?
• Are there any underlying medical conditions that could be contributing to my weight gain or hindering weight loss?
• What dietary changes should I make to support weight loss while maintaining proper nutrition?
• Are there any medications or supplements that could assist with weight loss?
• How can I develop a realistic and sustainable weight loss plan?

Remember, your doctor is there to provide guidance, personalized advice, and support throughout your weight loss journey. Honesty and open communication about your goals, challenges, and underlying health conditions will help them tailor their recommendations to your needs.

Conclusion

Hair loss can significantly impact an individual’s self-esteem and overall well-being. However, with the right knowledge and proper treatment, managing and even reversing this condition is possible. By following the instructions and tips outlined in this article, you can take proactive steps toward addressing hair loss.

Thanks for reading!