Hair loss is a common problem in the United States, with one in five Americans losing hair at some point in life. The problem is more common in men than women and usually occurs when there’s no sufficient growth to replace hair that has fallen out. Androgenic alopecia – a hereditary condition that can affect both men and women as they age, is a common cause of hair loss. Other times hair can fall out after radiation therapy in the head, during a stressful event, or maybe caused by hairstyles such as cornrows and ponytails that strain your hairline. Fortunately, your hair loss specialist in Lakewood Ranch can help your hair regrow using the following treatment approaches.
Medication
Since sometimes hair loss is due to underlying conditions, your specialist needs to treat that disease or may ask you to stop using specific medication if that is the reason behind your hair loss. The following drugs can help slow down or prevent hair loss in men and women.
- Minoxidil. Products with minoxidil are available over-the-counter in shampoos, liquid, and foam. The product is applied to the affected area – once a day for women and twice for men. You need at least six months of consistent use for the treatment to be effective. Previous patients have reported side effects like scalp irritation and unwanted hair growth on the hands and face.
- Finasteride. Hair specialists prescribe this pill for men, which they take daily. Results are noticeable after a few months, either gradual growth of new hair or slowed hair loss. However, men above 60 years nay not benefit as much from finasteride.
Lifestyle modifications
Some slight changes in your routine hair practices can transform your hair for the better. For example, consider wearing wigs or using extensions instead of tight braids that pull off your edges. However, if braids make you feel your best, ask your hairstylist to be gentle with your hair and avoid tightening the braids. You may want to consider products that add volume to your hair and avoid styles that require wide parts on your head. Talking to your hairstylist about your condition puts them in the know, making it easier for them to manage your hair as your hair the best way possible.
Hair transplant surgery
Patients with a bald head, a common type of permanent hair loss, can benefit from a hair transplant. Like with most surgeries, a consultation with your doctor is necessary to understand what the procedure entails and its risks. Some of the complications resulting from a hair transplant surgery include infection, swelling, and bleeding. Understanding this helps you decide whether the procedure is worthwhile. Your specialist will sedate you before treatment to avoid pain and discomfort during surgery. Hair transplant involves your surgeon using hair from a different part of your head and transplanting it into a bald area or that with thinned hair. However, if the cause of your hair loss is hereditary, you will eventually lose hair with time.
The hairline is a distinct feature of the entire head and affects your general appearance. If yours is receding, consult with your specialist at Honest Hair Restoration to find out which treatment method best suits you.
