Other Options
First, be warned that there are about as many hair loss "cures" on the market as there are hairs on your head. Your three main options are:
Topical minoxidil
Minoxidil was originally developed as an oral drug to reduce blood pressure. Researchers recognised this drugs potential as a hair loss treatment when individuals taking minoxidil developed hair growth. Now, Minoxidil is available in topical liquid form to rub into the scalp. It is a well-tolerated therapy with minimal side effects, and there is some evidence that it can promote hair growth in certain individuals. However this treatment is not for everyone; studies have shown that minoxidil is most effective for men that are less than 30 years old and have a bald patch that is less than 10cm across. This treatment’s biggest drawback is that you need to apply minoxidil liquid twice a day, a routine that is quite messy and only has limited effectiveness.
Prescription medicine
Because Male Pattern Hair Loss is a medical condition, MSD has developed a medical treatment for it. Unlike the cosmetic products, Propecia is a prescription medicine that has been clinically tested to stop male pattern hair loss and restore hair follicles to their normal size.
It really works. After only three months on Propecia, you could be seeing longer, thicker hairs and improved scalp coverage.
And remember – the sooner the treatment begins, the better the results.
Hair transplantation
This involves the removal of strips of skin containing active, healthy follicles from the back of the head. Next, they’re cut into small plugs and replanted into bald areas. Transplants involving two, three or four follicles at a time generally result in a more natural regrowth pattern. The newly transplanted follicles ‘think’ they’re still on the back of the head, which is naturally resistant to balding.
Unfortunately, hair loss in the non-transplanted area can continue creating the need for more procedures. Of course, other forms of medical treatment can help prevent continued hair loss after the transplant. See your physician to help you select the hair loss treatment best for you.