Men’s hair loss: Products to prevent and treat thinning hair

Most men worldwide suffer from hair issues at one time in their lives. From a receding hairline to thinning at the crown or even more serious experiences, such changes begin as early as the age of twenty. It is normal and depends on the body's genetic makeup, hormonal balance, and lifestyle factors.

Hair loss can lower self-esteem and make you a little concerned about your appearance. But here's the good news: there are more solutions today than ever in the past. So, let us discuss hair loss by defining its reasons, the most effective hair loss treatment, and ways of preventing it.

Types of Male Hair Loss

Hair loss can be divided into different categories depending on the cause. Let’s have a look at some common hair loss types:

Telogen Efflux: This is a temporary form of hair loss triggered by high stress, illness, or major life changes. During this condition, more hair follicles than normal move to the resting phase, leading to hair loss.

Alopecia Areata: A pathological condition of the skin in which the body develops immunity against hair follicles, resulting in hair loss in round patterns.

Traction Alopecia: This results from excessive force applied to hair follicles. For instance, tight ponytails, braids, or hair extensions can cause it.

Nutritional and Hormonal Hair Loss: Lack of key nutrients like iron, protein, and vitamins can lead to hair thinning and loss. Hormonal imbalances, including thyroid conditions or testosterone levels, can also contribute to hair loss.

Prescription Medications To Combat Hair Loss

Nothing has been more revolutionary in the battle against hair loss than prescription medications for many individuals. Let's explore the two most prominent prescription options:

Finasteride (Propecia)

Finasteride blocks DHT, a hormone causes hair thinning. This formula lowers levels of DHT and, therefore, slows the rate of hair loss, even promoting new hair growth.

Side Effects of Finasteride (Propecia)

According to NHS, finasteride has side effects, but they are relatively rare and occur in fewer than one out of every 1000 patients. However, one should know it before beginning the treatment. A small percentage of users might experience reduced sexual drive, erectile dysfunction, or mood changes.

Minoxidil (Rogaine)

Minoxidil is a topical scalp solution. It enhances circulation to hair tissues, giving new life to shrinking follicles and promoting hair growth. It’s available in over-the-counter liquid and foam formulations and is preferred by many men who desire a treatment that does not involve surgery.

Combination Therapy

Many hair loss specialists recommend using finasteride and minoxidil together for maximum effectiveness. This combined approach targets hair loss from multiple angles: blocking DHT production and stimulating follicle health.

Topical Treatments

Non-prescription topical solutions make it easier and more convenient for men to treat hair loss. Let's explore the most promising options:

Hair Growth Serums: Most hair growth serums bought over the counter contain biotin, peptides, and botanical extracts to help activate hair follicles. These non-greasy, quick-penetrating liquid solutions can help strengthen hair.

Scalp Treatments: These products nurture hair by eradicating problems such as inflammation, dandruff, and poor circulation. These products often contain tea tree oil, salicylic acid, and niacinamide, which help cleanse and exfoliate the scalp.

Caffeine-Infused Solutions: Some topical preparations that contain caffeine have been observed to inhibit DHT and promote hair follicle solutions. They can help enhance blood circulation to the scalp and may extend the growth phase of hair follicles.

Vitamins and Nutrient Sprays: Leave-in spray treatments packed with vitamins and nutrients nourish hair follicles. These products typically contain a blend of biotin, vitamin E, and other rich nutrients that boost hair health.

High-Tech Therapies

Advanced medical technologies offer hope for men struggling with hair loss when traditional treatments fall short. Let’s share some professional treatments for hair loss:

Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): Low-level laser therapy involves using specialised machines that apply low-energy laser light to promote hair follicle growth and scalp blood circulation.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Treatments: PRP is a process that is achieved by taking a patient’s blood, processing the blood to obtain the platelets, and then injecting the plasma into the affected regions of the head. This treatment uses the body's natural healing properties to stimulate hair growth.

Hair Transplant Surgery: Modern hair transplant methods, like FUE ( Follicular Unit Extraction) and FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation ), provide highly advanced solutions for getting permanent hair loss solutions. Surgeons carefully remove hair follicles from dense areas and transplant them to thinning or balding regions.

Stem Cell Hair Restoration: Emerging stem cell therapies use advanced cellular technologies to regenerate hair follicles. These experimental treatments involve surgical removal and relocation of stem cells to replicate hair follicles in the bald region.

Natural and Holistic Methods

Nowadays, male patients prefer safe and effective techniques that empower body self-repair processes. Let’s look at natural strategies to combat hair thinning:

Herbal Solutions

• Saw Palmetto: Reduces DHT production without the need for chemical enhancement.
• Ginseng: Enhances the flow of blood in the area of the scalp.
• Horsetail Extract: Contains silica, which is essential for the hair.
• Stinging Nettle: Prevents testosterone from being converted.

Hair-Nourishing Essential Oils

• Peppermint Oil: Stimulates blood circulation.
• Rosemary Oil: Promotes cellular metabolism.
• Lavender Oil: Cuts down stress levels and assists the overall well-being of the scalp.
• Cedarwood Oil: Restores the normal balance of oil produced by the scalp.

Nutritional Advice

• Protein-rich foods
• Omega-3 fatty acids (from fish)
• Nuts and seeds
• Leafy greens
• Zinc and iron-rich foods
• Hydration

Relaxation Strategies

• Meditation
• Yoga Sessions
• Deep Breathing
• Active Lifestyle
• Restful Sleep

Also read: Does conditioner cause hair fall? Myths and facts

Final Thoughts

Hair loss is a common experience for many men. While it can be disheartening, knowing you have options matters a lot. Various approaches address and manage hair thinning, from medical treatments to lifestyle adjustments. Your self-worth is not tied to your hair but to your character and confidence.