You might have heard someone saying, ‘This particular home remedy for hair loss worked like magic for me’. And to get the same results you tried that too but felt betrayed. Yes, the effectiveness of natural home remedies varies from person to person. It may work wonders for one but not for another because the root cause of hair loss can differ for every person. For some, the reason for hair loss can be stress or genetics, for others, it can be poor diet or a certain medical condition. But now, many advanced hair loss treatments have been developed to tackle the hair loss problem from its root. Some of the advanced hair loss treatments are also scientifically and clinically approved. Exactly what you were looking for? Let’s explore the top 5 hair loss treatments that can help restore your hair.

1. Minoxidil

Minoxidil is an FDA-approved, over-the-counter topical solution commonly used to treat hair loss. Available in both liquid and foam forms, it is applied directly to the scalp twice a day. Minoxidil works by enhancing blood circulation to the scalp and stimulating hair follicles. It encourages hair follicles to enter the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle, leading to thicker, healthier hair over time.

Minoxidil is available in several strengths, including 2%, 5%, 8%, 10%, and 12.5%. The 2% solution is often recommended for women, while the 5% solution is more commonly prescribed for men. For optimal results, Minoxidil should be applied to the clean and dry scalp in a dose of approximately 1 ml, starting from the center and spreading outward. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and apply it no more than twice a day. While results are not immediate, visible improvements in hair growth are typically seen after 3 to 5 months of consistent use.

One of the key points to remember is that if you stop using Minoxidil, the hair growth induced by the treatment may begin to reverse after about 3 to 4 months. This is why it is essential to continue using the product if you wish to maintain your results.  If you experience side effects like dizziness, headaches, heart palpitations, or low blood pressure, stop using minoxidil and consult your dermatologist

2. Finasteride

Finasteride is an FDA-approved, oral prescription medication commonly used to treat hair loss, particularly male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia). It works by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a hormone linked to hair follicle shrinkage and hair loss. By reducing DHT levels, finasteride helps slow or stop hair loss and can promote hair regrowth in some individuals.

Finasteride is typically available in a 1 mg dosage for hair loss treatment. It is taken once a day, usually in tablet form, and should be swallowed whole with or without food. For optimal results, consistent use is necessary, with visible improvements typically seen after 3 to 6 months of daily use.

Again, if you stop using finasteride, the benefits will begin to reverse, and hair loss may resume within 6 to 12 months. Therefore, it is important to continue taking the medication to maintain its effectiveness.

Finasteride is generally well tolerated, but side effects can include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and reduced semen volume. These side effects are rare. If you experience any concerning side effects, it is important to consult with a doctor. Additionally, finasteride is not recommended for women, especially those who are or may become pregnant, as it can cause birth defects.

3. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy 

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is a medical treatment used to promote hair regrowth in individuals experiencing hair loss, particularly androgenetic alopecia (male and female pattern baldness). PRP therapy involves using the patient’s own blood to stimulate hair follicles and improve hair growth. The process works by isolating a concentrated amount of platelets from the blood, which contains growth factors that can promote tissue repair and regeneration.

The PRP procedure begins with a blood draw, typically from the arm. The blood is then processed in a centrifuge to separate the plasma, which is rich in platelets, from other blood components. The resulting PRP is then injected into areas of the scalp where hair thinning or hair loss has occurred. The growth factors in the PRP stimulate dormant hair follicles and encourage them to enter the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle, leading to thicker, fuller hair over time.

PRP therapy for hair loss usually requires multiple sessions to achieve optimal results. The typical treatment plan consists of an initial series of 3 to 4 sessions spaced about 4 to 6 weeks apart, followed by maintenance treatments every 4 to 6 months. Results can typically be seen within 3 to 6 months, although individual responses to treatment may vary.

PRP is considered a safe, minimally invasive procedure with relatively few risks. Since the treatment uses the patient’s own blood, there is a low risk of allergic reactions or infections. However, some individuals may experience mild side effects, such as scalp tenderness, swelling, or redness at the injection site.

4. Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) 

Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) helmets, also known as red light therapy helmets, are FDA-approved devices used to treat hair loss.  Clinical studies suggest that LLLT can be effective in slowing hair loss and promoting hair regrowth, particularly for individuals with androgenetic alopecia. The procedure involves utilising low-level lasers or light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to stimulate hair follicles and promote hair regrowth. The technology behind LLLT is based on the principle of photobiomodulation, which uses specific wavelengths of light to improve cellular function and stimulate the hair follicles to enter the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle.

LLLT helmets are designed to be worn on the head like a cap and typically use red or near-infrared light to penetrate the scalp. The light energy is absorbed by the hair follicles, which helps to increase circulation, reduce inflammation, and encourage the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), a molecule that fuels cellular activity. This process is believed to help rejuvenate hair follicles, strengthen existing hair, and promote new hair growth.

For optimal results with Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) helmets, patients typically need 3–6 sessions per week for 4–6 months. Some may see results after the first session, but noticeable improvements are usually seen after 3 to 6 months of consistent use. After the initial treatment period, maintenance sessions of 1–2 times per week are recommended. Each session lasts 20 to 30 minutes. LLLT is most effective in the early stages of hair loss and cannot stimulate growth in areas without active hair follicles. The treatment is generally safe with no serious side effects.

5. Mesotherapy

Mesotherapy for hair loss is a non-surgical treatment that involves injecting a combination of nutrients, vitamins, amino acids, and growth factors directly into the scalp. The goal is to stimulate hair follicles, improve scalp health, and promote hair regrowth, particularly for conditions like androgenetic alopecia (male and female pattern baldness).

During the procedure, a dermatologist injects a customized mixture of substances, which may include vitamins (such as biotin and B12), minerals, hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, and sometimes platelet-rich plasma (PRP). These injections are typically administered in areas where hair thinning or baldness is present.

Mesotherapy for hair loss usually requires multiple sessions to achieve noticeable results. Typically, 6 to 10 sessions are scheduled about 1 to 2 weeks apart, followed by maintenance treatments every 2 to 3 months. Visible improvements in hair density and reduced shedding can often be seen after 2 to 3 months, with optimal results occurring after 6 months or more of consistent treatment.

The procedure is minimally invasive and generally safe, with few side effects. Common side effects include mild pain, redness, or swelling at the injection sites, though more serious complications are rare. Mesotherapy is most effective for individuals with early to moderate hair loss.

Conclusion

Excessive hair fall can be distressing, but with the right hair loss treatment, it’s possible to reverse or slow down the process. The most effective treatments for hair thinning include FDA-approved medications like minoxidil and finasteride, as well as more advanced procedures like PRP therapy, LLLT, and mesotherapy.

Remember that results may vary from person to person, and not all treatments work for everyone. So, consulting with a hair restoration expert or dermatologist is important. The doctor can help you diagnose the reason for hair loss and suggest the best hair loss treatment plan based on the type and severity of your hair loss.