You can't always prevent your hair from falling out as you age, but there are treatments and remedies that might slow down the process. Before you go out and buy supplements and special tonics, learn which ones have shown some promise in preventing or treating hair loss.
Male pattern baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is an inherited trait. It affects more than half of men over the age of 50.
1. Prescription and OTC drugsThe U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved two drugs to treat male pattern baldness:
For both of these drugs, it may take up to a year to see results, and you'll need to keep taking them to maintain the benefits.
2. Hair transplantsThe two most popular hair transplant procedures are follicular unit transplantation and follicular unit extraction:
Keep in mind that a hair transplant is considered a surgery, so it can be expensive and may be painful. There are also certain risks, including infections and scarring. You may also need to do multiple hair transplant treatments to get the desired outcome.
3. Laser treatmentLaser treatment is thought to reduce the inflammation in follicles that keeps them from regrowing. There are limited studies to support their effectiveness in treating hair loss, but a 2016 review determined that low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is safe and effective when used to treat male pattern hair loss. More research is needed.
4. Quit smokingIf you're a smoker, you've probably heard about all the negative effects smoking has on your health. But did you know that smoking could cause hair loss on top of facial wrinkles and premature greying of hair? Research has determined that there's a link between smoking and hair loss. If you want to keep from going bald, it may be a good idea to quit smoking as soon as possible.
5. Scalp massageNot only do massages feel wonderful, but they can help with your hair loss, too. Massaging the scalp stimulates the hair follicles. In one small study, healthy Japanese men who received four minutes of scalp massage each day for 24 weeks had thicker hair at the end of the study.
6. OilsThere's some evidence that peppermint oil can help with hair growth. Rosemary oil has also been traditionally used to increase blood circulation on the scalp. A 2013 study found that rosemary leaf extract improved hair regrowth in mice.
Coconut oil, castor oil, and olive oil are also widely recommended, but research on their benefits for hair growth is limited.
7. A balanced dietA well-balanced diet can keep your hair in tip-top shape. Make sure you are including a variety of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, unsaturated fats, and lean proteins in your diet, and limit your intake of sweets.
Certain vitamins and minerals found in food are associated with healthy hair. Try adding in these types of foods:
Last but not least, make sure you're drinking plenty of water.
8. Saw palmettoSaw palmetto is a plant with small berries that's often used as part of a treatment plan for an enlarged prostate. While research is narrow on saw palmetto's ability to treat hair loss, one study showed positive results for men treated with a topical formulation.
9. BiotinBiotin is a vitamin found naturally in foods like:
There's some evidence that taking biotin supplements by mouth may slow hair loss, but most of the research has been done in women.
10. Onion juiceA 2002 study showed that the use of onion juice as a topical treatment resulted in significantly more regrowth than just tap water in people with patchy alopecia areata.
Read more: Are onions good for you? »
11. BhringrajBhringraj (Eclipta alba), also called false daisy, is a species in the sunflower family with a reputation in Ayurvedic tradition as an herb that supports hair growth. Studies in mice have shown that extracts of the herb do show better hair regrowth than minoxidil (Rogaine). However, more research is needed to confirm these effects in humans.
12. Green teaAnother purported herbal remedy for hair loss is green tea. A study in mice of the polyphenolic compounds present in green tea show promise as a natural remedy for hair loss, but human studies have not been done to confirm these effects.
13. HibiscusHibscus rosa-sinesis is marketed widely in India for hair growth. A study in mice showed positive effects on hair follicles, but no studies have been done in humans.
14. Be gentle with your locksTry to be as gentle as possible when brushing or styling your hair. Constantly twisting, twirling, or pulling your hair tight can lead to hair loss. If you're worried about hair loss, you may want to avoid the following:
If you must use chemicals or bleach in your hair, seek help from a trained professional. Don't try to do it yourself at home.
15. Get a checkupAside from your genetics, there are several medical conditions that can result in hair loss. You will be able to address your hair loss by treating the underlying condition. The following conditions could lead to hair loss:
If you have any of these conditions, or you're experiencing other symptoms besides hair loss, make sure you visit your doctor and get the treatment you need. Your hair loss should improve as your condition improves.
16. Reduce stressStress can really do a number on the body, including your hair. Hair loss may be a result of a stressful lifestyle. Strategies to reduce stress include:
Getting enough sleep is also essential.
Keep reading: The best meditation apps of the year »
17. Stop or change a medicationCertain medications can lead to hair loss. Examples include:
If you're concerned about your hair loss, don't stop taking the medication right away. See your doctor to find out if you have other options. You might just have to wait until you finish your treatment. In most cases, your hair should return once the treatment is stopped.
See your doctor if you're experiencing sudden patchy hair loss, you think that a medication may be causing your hair loss, you have a rash, or your skin is scaly.
Source: 17 Hair Loss Treatments for Men
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