Finasteride

It is a prescription medication for men who have male pattern hair loss, or androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Finasteride slows the rate of hair loss and stimulates new hair growth by inhibiting the body’s production of a hormone that destroys hair follicles. This medication is taken once a day by mouth and is most effective when taken at the same time each day.

Oral Minoxidil

Oral minoxidil is mainly used for male and female pattern hair loss. However, there can be benefits for other types of hair loss, too, including telogen effluvium, traction alopecia and loose anagen syndrome.

Studies have shown that about one-third of patients will notice a reduction in shedding, and a third will notice improved growth in 6 months or more. This means that up to 2 in 3 people may notice benefits from oral Minoxidil.

Oral minoxidil does not cause side effects like scalp irritation, burning or itching.

If you are experiencing these symptoms while using topical minoxidil, talk to your dermatologist and they may recommend trying oral formulation instead.

Antiandrogens

Medications that inhibit androgens (that damage or destroy hair follicles) may stop hair loss in female pattern baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Antiandrogen medications are available by prescription only and include spironolactone and oral contraceptives, or birth control pills, that contain estrogen.

Antiandrogens usually start to work after four months. Long-term treatment is necessary to prevent hair loss from recurring.

Antiandrogens can produce side effects, including irregular menstrual periods and drowsiness. Women who are trying to become pregnant should not take antiandrogens.

Corticosteroids

Some types of hair loss are caused by an autoimmune disease and are treated differently than hormonally induced hair loss. With an autoimmune condition, the body’s immune system attacks healthy organs and tissues, including the skin. Sometimes the body destroys healthy hair follicles.

Corticosteroid medications are used to treat people with alopecia areata, lichen planopilaris, and discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE). These immune system suppressors can counteract the effects of an autoimmune disease, allowing hair to grow. Steroids are available as topical solutions or injections, and all require a prescription.

Dermatologists determine which type of treatment is most appropriate based on your age and severity of symptoms.

Supplements

Hair growth is affected by many variables. Certain nutrients, like vitamins B, C, D, Folic Acid, and Iron plays a very important role in texture and growth of hair.

• Biotin, which is a subtype of vitamin B, is very closely related to hair loss.
• Vitamin C being a powerful antioxidant plays a vital role in hair structure.
• Vitamin D deficiency is known to play a part in scarring alopecia.
• Iron takes care of providing enough oxygen to the hair follicles.
• Zinc contributes to immune function and healing processes.

There are several other micronutrients that are required in trace amounts to maintain hair health. A good diet along with a boost of supplements are all you need for a good hair game.