Hair loss treatment options
The right treatment depends on why you're losing hair. Some treatments are intended to slow hereditary hair loss, while others focus on addressing an underlying health condition.
For example, pattern hair loss may be managed with medicines that support hair growth or reduce the hormonal effects on hair follicles. Sudden shedding caused by illness or nutritional deficiency may improve once the underlying issue is resolved.
Common approaches include:
- Topical minoxidil: Applied to the scalp to help encourage hair growth in certain types of hair loss. Results vary, and continued use is usually needed to maintain benefits.
- Oral finasteride: A prescription medicine used for male pattern hair loss in suitable adult men. It can reduce the effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone involved in hereditary hair loss.
- Treating underlying conditions: Where hair loss is linked to thyroid problems, iron deficiency or another medical condition, addressing the cause may help.
- Specialist dermatology treatments: Certain forms of hair loss may require treatments prescribed or supervised by a dermatologist.
- Hair restoration procedures: Hair transplantation may be an option for some people with stable pattern hair loss, although it isn't appropriate for every type of hair loss.
Not every treatment is suitable for everyone. Finasteride, for example, can cause sexual side effects and has important warnings about mood changes. Treatment choices should take account of medical history, pregnancy considerations and individual risk.
A healthcare professional can help determine whether treatment is appropriate and what results you can realistically expect.