Hair Loss: Treatments That Work
No one wants this unfortunately,....Up to 85% of men and 50% of women will experience hair loss.
First, it is important to get an evaluation with your physician before starting any treatment. Not all hair loss is the same. Different types of hair loss respond to different treatments.
There are certain conditions that can affect hair loss therefore make sure to discuss with your doctor on what laboratory studies you may need as well as an in office hair test and in some cases a biopsy.
Treatment options include supplements to decrease inflammation, over the counter medications and prescription medications.
Supplements:
Biotin….we have all heard the buzz about how this helps with hair growth, unfortunately we have research to support there is no evidence that biotin helps with hair growth. In fact, high doses of biotin is not advised as it does interfere with other lab studies making it difficult to get diagnosis of other conditions especially thyroid issues.
Vitamin D however, has been shown to be helpful for hair growth, therefore it is important to get your levels checked by your physician if you are having hair loss so you can be on the right supplementation dose. Vitamin D promotes hair growth by stimulating any hair follicle that is dormant.
Omega 3 fatty acids is also helpful. This does not work to directly improve hair growth however it helps to decrease inflammation therefor helping any inflammation that was causing hair shedding.
Over the Counter Medications:
Topical Zinc Pyrithione found in shampoo has been shown to help with sustained hair growth if used for up to 6 months in men.
Topical Minoxidil (Rogaine) is known to improve hair growth. Most common reaction is irritation, rash and itching. If there is no hair growth in 3 months please stop and talk to your physician.
Prescription Medications:
Depending on what type of hair loss is being treated, there are options that your physician can try to improve hair growth. Oral Minoxidil, Finasteride (for men), and Spironolactone (for women) can help.
Other Treatments:
Collagen Induction therapy (micro-needling), can help with hair growth by stimulating hair follicles. Your physician can do this with or without PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) to promote hair growth.
If you are having hair loss concerns please discuss with your doctor for an evaluation, workup and treatment.
If you do not have a physician, please Contact Us and we will be happy to get you scheduled. At One Health DPC, our members get free hair consultations and have access to discounted lab studies to help determine any chronic conditions or vitamin deficiencies that may exacerbate their hair loss. We also have prescription medications in house at wholesale pricing to decrease cost for our members.
Email: welcome@onedpc.com | Call/Text: 828-360-8359
Disclaimer: This blog is not intended to provide diagnosis, treatment or medical advice. Please consult with a physician or other healthcare professional regarding any medical, health related diagnosis or treatment options. Information on this blog should not be considered a substitute for advice from your healthcare professional.
Education. Family Medicine. Dermatology. Hair Loss