What can you do against hair loss?
Hair loss is a common problem that affects both men and women. Many are looking for non-surgical solutions to combat thinning or thinning hair. Whether you are noticing the early signs of hair loss or want to preserve the results of a previous hair transplant, some non- to minimally invasive treatments can be very effective.
Top 5 medical treatments for hair loss
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 5 proven non-surgical hair loss treatments and provide insight into how they work and their potential benefits for you if you’re looking to tackle this problem.
Finasteride
Finasteride is a prescription medication used to treat hair loss in men. It blocks a hormone that inhibits hair growth in the scalp. It is used topically or in tablet form for at least 3 months to achieve noticeable improvement, with good results usually seen within the first 12 months of treatment. Finasteride is for men only. Women with similar hair loss problems may choose another topical medication that stimulates blood flow to the scalp, available over the counter as Rogaine® (minoxidil). It is important to note the potential side effects associated with finasteride when taken orally. These include erectile dysfunction, increase in breast size, hardness or pain in the breasts with nipple discharge, skin rash, swelling of the lips, tongue, throat or face and depression. For this reason, we only offer our patients topical finasteride (Fynzur), which is a safer alternative with fewer side effects.
Minoxidil
Minoxidil, originally developed to treat high blood pressure, is now widely used to combat hair loss, particularly androgenic alopecia. It is suitable for both men and women (except during pregnancy or breastfeeding). There are various products containing minoxidil such as shampoos and foams for topical use. The treatment is carried out by daily application to the scalp, with results visible within four months.
PRP
PRP or plasma therapy for hair loss is a minimally invasive procedure in which the patient’s own blood is taken, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is produced and injected into the scalp. The injection can be done by machine or by hand, as a stand-alone treatment or in combination with the medications mentioned above to maximise the effect. PRP injections slow down hair loss, revitalise and improve hair quality and can sometimes reawaken dormant hair follicles, leading to new hair growth. It offers unique regenerative benefits with no scarring after the procedure. The effectiveness of PRP lies in the high concentration of growth factors that promote natural hair growth by stimulating blood vessel growth, cell proliferation, collagen formation and the growth of specialised cells that are important for hair follicle regeneration. More information about the regenerative effects of PRP and its close relative PRF can be found here.
Exosomes
Exosome therapy offers a ground-breaking approach to treating hair loss by utilising the powerful regenerative potential of stem cells. Exosomes are a particularly attractive alternative for people with a genetic predisposition to hair loss, or if you are reluctant to undergo extensive surgical treatments. Through tiny extracellular vesicles, exosomes deliver growth factors, signalling molecules and nutrients directly to the hair follicles, facilitating intercellular communication that stimulates hair growth. When applied to areas of the scalp affected by hair loss, exosomes stimulate hair regeneration by providing important instructions for cell renewal and initiating vital cellular processes. Due to their small size, exosomes can penetrate deep into the tissue during application and represent an innovative technology for stimulating hair growth and revitalising follicle health.
Fat stem cells and SVF
Fat stem cells and the stromal vascularised fraction (SVF), a more heterogeneous collection of cells without the mature fat cells, have shown promise as substances to promote hair growth due to their regenerative properties. Stem cells have the potential to release growth factors that promote hair follicle regeneration. Although further studies are needed to establish and improve optimal standardised protocols, these technologies are among the most effective non-surgical hair loss therapies currently available. For more insights into the amazing potential of stem cell therapy, click here.
If you would like to learn more or would like additional information, please do not hesitate to contact us. Stay tuned for our next blog where we will discuss surgical hair renewal. .