Over-the-counter
Minoxidil, now over-the-counter in a 5% foam, should be used consistently and as directed to get the maximum benefit.
There have been some studies that indicated caffeine and niacin applied topically to hair follicles may stimulate hair growth. There are shampoos and scalp treatments that contain caffeine and niacin. This would not be a treatment for someone who is balding. It only works on active (living) hair roots. It won’t regenerate bald spots.
Hair growth supplements like Viviscal provide nutrients that promote existing hair growth. We sell a “professional” stronger version of Viviscal in our office. There is also an over-the-counter version available in retail stores.
Two other products I recommend are Glytone hair revitalizing treatments: Anaphase Shampoo and Glytone Néoptide Hair Lotion Spray. Both are available in our office.
Prescription Drugs
Finasteride is used primarily with male patients to reduce hair loss and stimulate hair regrowth. Studies on women have not consistently shown the same benefits. Special considerations should be taken for women of childbearing age, as Finasteride prevents the conversion of testosterone into DHT (dihydrotestosterone). DHT exacerbates male and female-pattern hair loss (top and front of the scalp). Finasteride could also increase estrogen levels, so it should not be used by women with a history of breast cancer.
Spironolactone is an anti-androgenic drug which may reduce hair loss in women. Special precautions also need to be taken for women of child-bearing age.
Platelet Rich Plasma
PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) is a new method to treat hair loss (androgenic alopecia). Some patients experience a reduction in hair loss after several PRP treatments, and also an improvement in the volume and coverage of hair on treated areas of the scalp. PRP is an injectable made from your blood! PRP speeds healing and has been used for years to help athletes recover from injuries and to repair tendons and joints.
A small amount of your blood is drawn and then with a centrifuge, the platelet rich plasma is extracted. After the injections of the PRP into your scalp, you may experience some redness, a little swelling or even bruising for a few days.
