Men often wonder if they can speed up their hair growth. While genetics do play a part, there are treatments available that may assist.
Minoxidil Treatment for Hair Growth
Minoxidil is a topical solution or foam applied topically to the scalp one to two times daily for maximum effectiveness in increasing blood flow to your scalp and stimulating hair growth. Studies have shown it to be highly successful after four months of treatment.
Benefits and Side Effects of Minoxidil
Minoxidil is an easy-to-use topical treatment for male pattern baldness available over the counter with few severe side effects. It does not affect sexual hormone levels and should not lead to reduced sex drive or erectile dysfunction (ED).
Working Mechanism of Minoxidil
Minoxidil’s exact working mechanism remains unknown, yet it has been shown to accelerate hair growth. It reactivates dormant follicles, increases their size and strength, and widens blood vessels to provide more oxygen-rich nutrients to the bristles for further growth stimulation.
Results and Use of Minoxidil
Minoxidil may take two to four months before results are visible. It is not a permanent solution for hair loss but can delay more drastic measures like hair transplants or platelet-rich plasma injections. It should be applied according to label instructions and cautiously to avoid skin irritations.
Types of Minoxidil Products
Minoxidil is available in both topical solution and foam formulations. Topical solutions are sold under brand names like Rogaine, while foam formulas allow for easier penetration into the scalp for even medication distribution. Both can be obtained without a prescription.
Finasteride for hair Loss
Finasteride is an oral medication in the 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor (FAS) class. It is used to treat male pattern baldness and cannot treat female hair loss or other areas of hair loss. Finasteride blocks the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone and shrinks hair follicles, causing hair loss. Hair growth resumes upon discontinuing use.
Side Effects and Long-Term Use of Finasteride
Finasteride may initially cause decreased libido and erectile dysfunction, but these often resolve over time. Long-term use is necessary to sustain results, as discontinuing the medication may result in hair loss returning once off treatment. It should be used cautiously in individuals with liver disease or other medical conditions and only under medical supervision.
Steroids and Hair Loss
When taken in high dosages, steroids can increase DHT levels in the body, leading to accelerated hair loss, particularly for those genetically predisposed. Not all steroids are DHT-based, so consultation with a healthcare provider is essential to prevent hair loss. Using steroids without a valid prescription is dangerous and should be avoided due to the risk of contamination or mislabelling.
Steroid Use and Alopecia Areata
Steroid use may contribute to or worsen the condition of alopecia areata, an autoimmune disease causing hair to thin and fall out. In some cases, steroid injections have shown significant regrowth in individuals suffering from extensive alopecia areata.
