Hair loss, also known as alopecia, can be a distressing condition for many individuals. However, there
are several treatment options available to help manage hair loss. It is important to consult with a medical doctor to determine the underlying cause of the hair loss and the most appropriate treatment option.
Causes of Hair Loss
Hair loss can occur for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common causes of hair loss include
Genetics: Androgenetic alopecia, also known as male or female pattern baldness, is the most common form of hair loss and is often inherited from one's parents.
Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes due to pregnancy, menopause, thyroid problems, and other conditions can cause hair loss.
Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as alopecia areata, scalp infections, and trichotillomania, can cause hair loss.
Medications: Some medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, can cause hair loss.
Stress: Physical or emotional stress can cause hair loss.
Effects of Hair Loss
The effects of hair loss can vary from person to person, but for many individuals, hair loss can have a significant impact on their self-esteem and quality of life. Hair loss can lead to feelings of self-consciousness, anxiety, and depression. Some individuals may avoid social situations or feel embarrassed about their appearance. Hair loss can also affect one's professional life, as it may impact job opportunities or career advancement.
Treatment options
Hair loss treatments described below are used to treat male pattern baldness. If hair loss has been caused by underlying infections or other systemic conditions. Management of the hair loss is focused on management of the underlying condition causing it.
1. Medications
Finasteride:
An oral medication that blocks the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that can cause hair loss. Finasteride is suitable for men with male pattern baldness.
Side Effects: Decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, ejaculation disorder, breast cancer, or high-grade prostate cancer [1].
Success Rates: Studies have shown that 83% of men who took finasteride for two years maintained or increased their hair count [2].
Minoxidil:
A topical medication that stimulates hair growth. It is available over-the-counter and can be used by both men and women. Minoxidil is suitable for individuals with androgenetic alopecia.
Side Effects: Scalp irritation, low blood pressure, chest pain, and rapid heartbeat [3].
Success Rates: Studies have shown that 40% of men and 25% of women who used minoxidil for 48 weeks experienced moderate to dense hair growth [4].
2. Hair Transplantation
Hair transplantation is a surgical procedure that involves taking hair follicles from one area of the scalp (the donor site) and transplanting them to another area of the scalp (the recipient site). The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and can take several hours to complete. Hair transplantation is suitable for individuals with androgenetic alopecia who have sufficient donor hair.
Side Effects: Scalp swelling, itching, and redness, infection, bleeding, and scarring [5].
Success Rates: Results can vary, but most individuals experience significant hair growth within 6-12 months after the procedure. In one study, 75% of men who underwent hair transplantation reported significant improvement in their hair density [6].
3. Low-level Laser Therapy
Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) involves using a device that emits low-level laser light to stimulate hair growth. The therapy is typically performed in a clinic setting and can take several sessions to see results. LLLT is suitable for individuals with androgenetic alopecia.
Side Effects: Scalp irritation, headaches, and dizziness [7].
Success Rates: Studies have shown that 60% of men who underwent LLLT for 16 weeks reported significant improvement in their hair density [8].
It is important to note that results may vary, and it may take several months to see significant improvement. Consult with your doctor to determine the best treatment option for you.
4. Platelet Rich Plasma
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy involves injecting a concentrated solution of platelets and growth factors derived from a patient's own blood into the scalp to stimulate hair growth. The procedure is typically performed in a clinic setting and can take several sessions to see results. PRP therapy is suitable for individuals with androgenetic alopecia.
Side Effects: Mild scalp pain, swelling, and redness at the injection site [9].
Success Rates: Studies have shown that PRP therapy can significantly improve hair density and thickness. In one study, 70% of patients who underwent PRP therapy reported significant improvement in their hair growth [10].
It is important to note that results may vary with all the above treatments, and it may take several months to see significant improvement. It is important therefore, to discuss various treatment options with your doctor.
References:
1. Propecia (finasteride) [package insert]. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck & Co., Inc.; 2011.
2. Kaufman KD, Olsen EA, Whiting D, et al. Finasteride in the treatment of men with androgenetic alopecia. J Am Acad Dermatol. 1998;39(4 Pt 1):578-589.
3. Rogaine (minoxidil) [package insert]. New York, NY: Pfizer Consumer Healthcare; 2011.
4. Olsen EA, Dunlap FE, Funicella T, et al. A randomized clinical trial of 5% topical minoxidil versus 2% topical minoxidil and placebo in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia in men. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2002;47(3):377-385.
5. Avram MR, Rogers NE. Hair Transplantation. Dermatol Clin. 2019;37(1):63-71.
6. Umar S. The use of body hair and beard hair in hair restoration. Facial Plast Surg Clin North Am. 2013;21(3):463-471.
7. Lanzafame RJ, Blanche RR, Bodian AB, et al. The growth of human scalp hair mediated by visible red light laser and LED sources in males. Lasers Surg Med. 2013;45(8):487-495.
8. Kim H, Choi JW, Kim JY, et al. Low-level light therapy for androgenetic alopecia: a 24-week, randomized, double-blind, sham device-controlled multicenter trial. Dermatol Surg. 2013;39(8):1177-1183.
9. Dhurat R, Sukesh M. Principles and methods of preparation of platelet-rich plasma: a review and author's perspective. J Cutan Aesthet Surg. 2014;7(4):189-197.
10. Giordano S, Romeo M, di Summa P, et al. Platelet-rich plasma for androgenetic alopecia: a pilot study. Dermatol Surg. 2014;40(9):1010-1019.