Hair loss can be difficult to accept, especially since having luscious hair is a sign of youthfulness and attractiveness. One of the most common causes of hair loss among men is androgenic alopecia or male pattern hair loss. This type of hair loss is due to genetics where the hair follicles are very sensitive to androgens causing them to shrink over time.
In the following article, we will take you through some of the most effective and scientifically-backed treatments for male hair loss.
It is important to note that some of the hair loss treatments for men that we will discuss below may work better at different stages of hair loss or in combination with other treatments. You can discuss these options with your doctor to find the most suitable treatment plan for your hair loss.
The Most Effective Hair Loss Treatment for Men
1- Minoxidil
Minoxidil is a popular solution for androgenic alopecia among men and women. The treatment comes in the form of a topical solution or foam that you apply directly to the scalp. The effects of minoxodil are more prominent in men with mild hair loss or those in the early stages of their hair loss.
Minoxidil works by prolonging the growth phase of your hair follicles. Additionally, the treatment increases blood flow to the scalp which helps improve follicle health.
In some cases, the treatment can even promote hair growth.
You will begin to see results with minoxidil within 3 to 6 months. It is important to know that stopping treatment will cause hair loss to resume. Consistency is key and you need to check with a trichologist to evaluate the progress and results of the treatment.
2- Hair Transplant
A hair transplant is the only permanent and effective solution for hair loss. The one-time procedure can reverse your hair loss for life. The minimally invasive procedure involves transferring androgen-resistant hair follicles from the back of your head to balding areas on your crown.
Because the hair from the back of your head is genetically resistant to the miniaturizing effects of androgens, it will not fall out due to your hormones. The results of a hair transplant will peak within a year as the follicles adjust to their new location and begin to grow hair.
Aside from a few aftercare practices in the first few months, a hair transplant does not need additional care. However, you can maximize your results by combining your treatment with PRP therapy or laser hair treatment. Both treatments can stimulate the follicles and supply them with nutrients by increasing blood flow in treatment areas.
3- Finasteride
Finasteride is a preventive and not restorative treatment that prevents hair loss through blocking androgens. The specific mechanism of finasteride as a hair loss treatment for men through blocking the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a hormone responsible for hair loss in men with androgenic alopecia since it causes hair follicle miniaturization.
Finasteride causes many side effects such as decreased libido and erectile dysfunction.
The Takeaway
Hereditary hair loss may seem like a difficult issue to treat, but the key is consistency and seeking treatment early. In the early stages of hair loss, you may not be eligible for a hair transplant. A hair transplant is a treatment option that is most effective once your hair loss stabilizes. Before that, maintenance treatments may be better options, such as topical minoxidil. Another great option would be finasteride, an androgen blocker. However, the latter option has many side effects since it will impact your androgens all over the body not just the scalp.
