Selecting a hair loss treatment

We treat it with care, brush it every day and hope it’s never out of place. But when hair begins to lose its thickness and leaves our brush draped with locks, it may be time to consider a hair loss treatment. There are several factors that may lead to hair loss, including certain medications, medical treatments, improper care, poor nutrition or illness. No matter the reason, the loss of one’s hair can be an embarrassing occurrence for many. With a proper diagnosis, a dermatologist can recommend a customized approach and an effective hair loss treatment.

In the beginning, a patient may be prescribed some type of medication in order to help prevent further hair loss. This would depend entirely on the determined cause, but is often an early approach to fighting against continued loss. Perhaps the most widely recognized hair loss treatment is Rogaine, which is available by prescription only. For individuals who do not seem to respond to regular treatments, or simply want a fast and effective hair loss treatment, a transplant may be their preferred approach.

A hair loss treatment is one that helps to prevent recurrence, but a hair transplant is thought to be a permanent resolution. This procedure includes the removal of skin and hair from another area of the head and transplanted to the location of hair loss. This procedure is commonly used on men who are experiencing male pattern baldness because there is usually hair that can be removed from the back and transplanted onto the balding area. It is important that there be enough healthy hair to transplant, as well as enough to remain at the donor site in order to maintain a full look. Certain individuals, such as those with weakened immune systems and/or Diabetes, may not be ideal candidates for a hair transplant.

Men or women who are suffering from complete hair loss due to certain illnesses and/or medical treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation, may find that their only hair loss treatment is that of artificial hair. Commonly referred to as a ‘wig,’ this type of hair is created to look natural and is carefully selected so that each patient feels that there appearance is not dramatically altered by the change.

This article is intended to be used for informational purposes only. It is not to be used in place of, or in conjunction with, professional medical advice or a dermatologist’s recommendation. Prior to beginning any hair loss treatment program, individuals must consult a physician for proper diagnosis and/or treatment.