How To Handle Rapidly Thinning Hair

Hair loss or thinning hair is a common problem experienced by both men and women today. There are varied causes of hair loss in men and women. In general, hair thinning is associated with predetermined genetic factors, aging, and family history but may also be caused by severe stress, hormonal changes like menopause, puberty, and pregnancy, or by nutritional deficiencies.

Treating Hair Thinning In Men and Women

There are varied treatment options for thinning hair in men and women. While some shampoos and hair conditioners claim to be effective in addressing hair thinning problems, there is no known approval from the FDA as an established treatment for hair loss. Studies have been conducted and medications have been formulated to address hair thinning problems for both men and women. Surgical procedures may also be initiated if the hair thinning problems cannot be corrected through the use of medications. There are some useful treatment options proven to treat hair thinning.

Thinning Hair

Prescription Treatments

Minoxidil or Rogaine

This is an over the counter topical medication. This medication works best on the crown of the head but will work less efficiently when used on the frontal region of the head. This is available in 5% solution, 4% solution, and 2% solution. There are known side effects of Rogaine and this medication needs to be applied once or perhaps twice a day.

Propecia or Finasteride

This is an FDA approved medication for hair thinning problems in men only. This has not been approved for use in women. Finasteride works by means of blocking the natural hormones on the scalp follicles. Propecia is a lower dose version of the medication.

Dutasteride or Avodart

This medication is primarily used to treat enlarged prostate in men and is used as an off label medication for hair thinning in men.

Physical Treatments

Hair Transplant

Hair transplantation has been used by women to treat hair thinning. This involves transplantation of healthy hair follicles onto the affected area.

Hair Extension

Most women with thinning hair problems go for hair extension. This is an effective method used to fill in affected area on the scalp.

Vitamins for Hair Thinning

Hair thinning may also be corrected through taking multivitamins that contain folate, vitamin B, calcium, and iron, since in some cases hair thinning is caused by vitamin deficiency.

Prevent Hair Loss

While there are now known treatments for hair thinning, preventing the onset of hair thinning is a better way to control the condition. Hair loss prevention will involve several factors that would depend on the underlying cause of the condition. One important way to prevent hair loss is having a good hair hygiene regimen that involves hair care using the right products. Good nutrition is another way to prevent hair thinning. Adequate levels of B vitamins and iron should be taken. Treatment of the underlying cause of hair thinning should also be sought to prevent this from occurring.

Consult Your Health Care Provider

If you have thinning hair concerns, it is best to seek medical consultation so this can be properly diagnosed. Moreover, the cause of the condition should also be determined before treatment is initiated. Your health care provider will help you plan the proper treatment regimen that is most appropriate with your thinning hair concerns.