Available Treatments for The Stressful Issue of Hair Loss
Hair loss in both men and women is a common occurrence that is highly undesirable due to the value that most people put in their hair. Some people don’t particularly mind the hair loss, leaving it untreated and unhidden, while others go transplant clinics, cover it up religiously with hairstyles, scarves or hats. There is also a category of people who seek treatments to prevent further hair loss and restore growth. This article focuses on those who decide to seek hair loss treatments.
1 Finasteride (Propecia)
Finasteride, commonly known by its brand name Propecia, is an FDA-approved medication that is primarily used to treat male pattern baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia. You can buy finasteride online since it is available on private prescription from your general practitioner (GP). Finasteride functions by inhibiting the conversion of testosterone into DHT (dihydrotestosterone), which is the hormone that binds to receptors in your scalp, consequently contributing to hair loss. DHT can cause a slight increase in the production of testosterone, and should, therefore, be generally avoided by women and children.
Finasteride is available in tablet form and should be taken only once daily. The medication is meant to be used for an extended period, and it is possible for you not to see the desired results until you’ve been taking the medication religiously for up to six months. Men who have had used finasteride for hair loss treatment have reported considerably increased hair growth, postponed hair loss, and generally better hair quality. Keep in mind that finasteride is only effective if you take it consistently.
Although finasteride is generally safe, it may have some side effects in some users. Common side effects may include loss of sex drive and erectile dysfunction. To avoid the risk of these side effects, ensure that you follow the given instructions carefully.
2 Dutasteride (Avodart)
The FDA approves dutasteride for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BHP), but it has not been approved for the treatment for hair loss. However, this doesn’t mean that it should not be used to prevent hair loss, since it is just as effective as finasteride, if not more. On the other hand, it can only be prescribed for treatment of hair loss as an off-label option. Dutasteride works by blocking testosterone converting into DHT as well, effectively increasing hair growth in males with pattern baldness. Dutasteride has the same side effects as finasteride, generally affecting sexual performance. However, these effects are rare and isolated incidences.
Both finasteride and dutasteride can be ordered online if you have a private or NHS prescription. You can then send the prescription to an online pharmacy of your choosing and wait for your medication to be dispensed.
3 Minoxidil
Minoxidil is a hair loss treatment that has been approved by the FDA for use by both men and women. It comes in the form of a topical liquid solution, a foam, and a spray. Minoxidil is sold over-the-counter and is easy to use. It works by activating dormant hair follicles, consequently resulting in the stimulation of hair growth. However, it is important to note that minoxidil does not prevent DHT from shrinking your hair follicles.
To use minoxidil, apply it to the affected areas on your scalp once a day. You don’t have to make any alterations to your hair routine since minoxidil is safe to use with most hair products. Make sure that your scalp and hair are dry before you apply the treatment, so as not to affect the absorption rate of the solution. Let it dry naturally, and remember to wash your hands if you used them for application. You can expect to see results a few months after the initial application. Some common minoxidil brands include Rogaine, Lipogaine, Kirkland Minoxidil, and Foligain.
4 Ketoconazole
Ketoconazole is widely used as an antifungal medication, but it also a common ingredient that can be found in many hair loss shampoos. Ketoconazole is often recommended in the form of Nizoral shampoo, a product that has been proven to help treat male pattern baldness. Ketoconazole works by stimulating the growth rate of hair, in addition to containing anti-androgen properties. It works best when used in combination with other hair loss treatments such as finasteride and minoxidil.
Use ketoconazole containing shampoos once a week, applying it as you would any other shampoo, and then thoroughly wash it off. Common side effects that may be experienced include stinging or mild irritation.
Final Thoughts
These hair loss treatments have been proven to be effective in facilitating the growth of hair, with minimal side effects. They are inexpensive and should be taken into consideration before you go for more expensive options such as hair transplants.
