And, for many, Minoxidil is just such a solution and a minoxidil beard just what they were looking for.

Minoxidil, a drug originally used to treat high blood pressure (and it still is), enhances hair growth, both on the scalp and face, with many studies to back it up. It can turn a patchy beard into one worthy of envy, with long-lasting results.

Here’s a closer look at Minoxidil, what it is, and how you can use it to bring your beard to its full potential.

First things first: What is Minoxidil?

A good place to begin is, well, from the beginning, i.e., what is Minoxidil, anyway?

It all began in the 1950s when Minoxidil was introduced as a drug to treat high blood pressure.

Minoxidil is considered a hypersensitive vasodilator; vasodilators are medications used to dilate (open) blood vessels. They prevent muscles in the walls of your arteries and veins from tightening and narrowing.

As a result, blood flows more easily through blood vessels. Because the heart doesn’t have to pump as hard, blood pressure is reduced.

Minoxidil was and still is, prescribed to hypersensitive patients whose blood pressure isn’t controlled by standard drugs.

One of the side effects of Minoxidil is that it causes hair growth in different areas of the body, including the face. By 1988, the FDA approved Minoxidil as a hair-growth product, and it was marketed under the name of Rogaine.

How it works remains something of a mystery, even to scientists, but in the most fundamental sense, Minoxidil works by prolonging the anagen phase of hair cells and growth. Anagen is the growth phase of hair growth, which also includes:

The catagen phase

This is considered a transitional phase in which hair follicles shrink and detach from the dermal papilla, which is a structural formation located in the upper layer of the skin. The dermal papilla provides nutrition, via the blood, to hair bulbs.

The telogen phase

The telogen phase is the resting phase of hair growth and lasts about three months. About 10 to 15 percent of hair is in the telogen phase at all times. While old hair rests, new hair enters the growth phases.

The exogen phase

The exogen phase is part of the resting phase, and it’s characterized by the shedding of old hair while new hair continues to grow.

Minoxidil and beard growth

Minoxidil, as mentioned, can spur hair growth on all parts of the body, including your beard and scalp. But a common misconception is that it revives hair growth on your face the same as it does on our head.

Men who have thinning or patchy areas on their beard aren’t “balding” on their faces like men experiencing thinning and shedding hair on their scalp.

Minoxidil stimulates the follicles already on your face. When applied to thin areas of facial hair, Minoxidil helps to develop a more uniform, healthy-looking beard.

The types of Minoxidil for beard growth

The two common types of Rogaine for beard growth come in liquid or foam.

Rogain Topical Solution (Liquid) 

What stands out about this product

• It is an extra-strength product
• You should see results within three months
• It is affordable compared to some hair loss products

Minoxidil liquid is the original form of application and comes in a 5% Extra Strength Rogaine version for men.

You can apply it twice a day – and should for best results – and should experience facial hair growth within three months of first applying it, although results vary by individual.

One of the advantages of minoxidil liquid is that it costs less than the foam version, but it takes longer to dry. Some users also say that the liquid feels slightly greasier on hair.

Rogaine also makes a 2% version for women, who can apply it twice a day on their scalps.

Pros

• East to apply 
• Very potent product
• Reactivates dormant hair follicles
• Ideal for targeting hair thinning on top of the head 
• A lot of buyers get positive results
• Some buyers do use the product in other areas and enjoy good hair growth success

Cons

• Not suitable for women
• Hair loss can start again if you discontinue the product
• Might not work for front baldness

Rogaine Topical Aerosol (Foam) 

What stands out about this product

• It includes 3 months supply
• Contains high quantities of Minoxidil
• Ideal for growing thicker or more dense hair
• See results within 3 months

Rogaine Foam is a popular version of Minoxidil for beard growth. It’s more expensive than the liquid version, but some users report that they experience positive results more quickly when using it. A lot of buyers also tried it on beards then reported that it did, in fact, increase their hair growth rate, and helped them cover some bald patches.

Another plus is that the foam dries in about half the time as the liquid. Even just saving that kind of time helps to justify its (higher) cost.

Pros

• Suitable for various balding or hair thinning areas
• Very easy to use
• The foam doesn’t drip or cause messes
• It is a safer product compared to many others
• Ideal for growing thicker hair
• You can style your beard as normal since the product doesn’t look oily
• A lot of buyers did use it to get a fuller beard

Cons

• Not intended for frontal head baldness

Spectral.BRD beard (nanoxidil)

While Rogaine is a common and effective way of developing a thicker, fuller beard (and Minoxidil is FDA-approved), a product called Spectral.BRD is gaining a lot of traction in beard growth circles.

The key ingredient in Spectral.BRD is nanoxidil, which is very similar to Minoxidil but doesn’t have potential side effects.

The primary difference between the two lies within their molecular structures. Nanoxidil has a greater molecular weight than Minoxidil because it contains one less carbon chain. The heftier molecular weight means it absorbs more efficiently into the skin.

Spectral.BRD was developed by DS Laboratories – which are part of the Miami-based DS Healthcare Group – and which also can lay claim to its unique nanosome delivery system.

The latter enables key ingredients to penetrate deeply into the skin and allows for the continuous release of active ingredients to produce longer-lasting results.

Those ingredients are encapsulated into liposomes that penetrate deeper into the skin because of their smaller size.

Several studies prove the efficacy of the nanosome/liposome system, including this one undertaken in India.

Spectral.BRD has several ingredients that can help users develop a thicker, healthier beard, not the least of which is adenosine. Scientifically speaking, adenosine increases thymidine uptake, which helps induce hair follicle development from the epidermis.

Adenosine also helps increase hair shaft diameter, which contributes to the overall thickness of your beard. Studies show that adenosine is similarly effective as Minoxidil 5% for stimulating hair growth. It also helps to increase the anagen phase of hair growth.

Spectral.BRD contains many other ingredients that help produce a thicker beard while eliminating those areas of patchiness that prevent whiskers from reaching their true potential, including:

Caffeine

We’re not talking about the same stuff that gives you a needed kick-start in the morning, but rather about caffeine extract. When used topically, caffeine extract stimulates facial and scalp hair growth while counteracting protein that suppresses the growth of hair cells.

Biotin

You’ll find biotin in many hair growth products, and a daily biotin supplement may increase hair growth production after 90 to 180 days. A biotin deficiency can cause alopecia, the loss of hair from some or all areas of the body.

Biotin is a type of B vitamin that can make your hair grow at a faster rate. Biotin also makes your nails and skin healthier. If you have a beard, then biotin may make your beard grow faster.

Biotin is an over-the-counter supplement, so it’s easy to purchase online or in stores. You can find it alone or mixed with other vitamins in a supplement.

Research shows that biotin supplements are safe for most people to take. However, if you have diabetes, then you should be careful about taking biotin supplements. If you have diabetes and want to take a biotin supplement, talk to your doctor about the right dose for you.

Piroctone olamine

The primary benefit of piroctone olamine is that it increases the number of hairs in the anagen phase. Many users predict noticeably thicker hair after using piroctone olamine.

In order for minoxidil to work on you it must be applied directly onto your skin. You can either use a beard oil that contains Piroctone Olamine or simply apply some olive oil on top of where you want the hairs to grow. If you are using an oil then make sure that it has Piroctone Olamine in it because this ingredient will help prevent any irritation that might occur when applying minoxidil directly onto your skin without first applying an emoll.

Copper peptides

Copper peptides increase hair follicle size, stimulate hair growth, and reduce hair loss.

Copper peptides are used in a number of products for skin care, but are also found in hair loss prevention products. The reason for this is that it has been shown to increase the tensile strength of collagen, which is a critical part of your hair and skin

Castor oil

Castor oil contains ricinoleic acid, an Omega-9 unsaturated fatty acid that restores moisture in the hair.

When used in conjunction with castor oil, minoxidil for beard growth will cause you to see significantly thicker facial hair. Castor oil is known to help with hair growth because it contains ricinoleic acid and omega-9 fatty acids. These nutrients stimulate blood circulation and improve the health of your hair follicles.

You can make your own beard oil by mixing two parts of a carrier oil, such as jojoba or sweet almond, with one part castor oil. You may also add in a few drops of essential oils, which are used to add scent and help the ingredients penetrate into the skin.

To use beard oil, spread a small amount onto your palm and massage it into your beard and facial hair. If you have long facial hair, you may need to use more to fully coat all of your hair.

Rosemary oil

One of rosemary oil’s many benefits is that it promotes better blood flow to hair follicles, which is necessary for them to survive.

The reason rosemary oil works so well for growing beard hair is because it’s a natural DHT blocker. DHT, or dihydrotestosterone, is a hormone produced by your body that causes hair loss. When you use a natural DHT blocker like rosemary oil, you can help prevent hair loss and encourage new beard growth.

Hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid benefits hair growth by adding moisture to hair follicles and the skin underneath. It can also increase the diameter of hair strands.

Another one of Spectral.BRD’s many benefits are that it’s easy to use.

It comes in a serum form, and you apply six to eight drops of it to the affected area and then massage it into your beard and skin.

You don’t rinse it off after application, and you should apply it twice a day.

How to apply liquid Minoxidil to your beard in 5 easy steps (A simple, illustrated guide)

Using Minoxidil to help grow a thicker beard requires discipline and patience. Don’t expect to see results immediately, and don’t become discouraged when it seems that nothing is happening.

That said, here’s the how-to of applying liquid and foam minoxidil:

1. Wash your face thoroughly

Washing your face is a crucial first step in the process before applying liquid Minoxidil.

We recommend using a quality face wash or cleanser rather than the same bar soap you use for the rest of your body.

Common bar soaps tend to strip your face of its natural oils, which leads to excessive dryness and include harsh chemicals that irritate the skin.

One product we really like is the Ursa Major Fantastic Face Wash. It’s packed with naturally-derived ingredients that won’t irritate the skin.

Make sure to take the time to thoroughly wash your face. Rub your wash or cleanser into all areas of the face while using circular motions with your fingers.

2. Measure the amount of Minoxidil

Measure out 1 ml of Minoxidil with the included dropper. The general recommendation is to use no more than 2 ml a day, or two doses, evening and night. The second application should be at least 8 to 12 hours after the first.

3. Applying the liquid

Begin by putting small drops onto areas of the face where you’re growing a beard. Concentrate first on the areas where patchiness is most evident. Keep applying it to your face until the dropper is empty.

4. Rub it in

Use two fingers, or the applicator if you prefer, to rub the solution gently down to the skin with a light amount of pressure. There’s no need to apply heavy pressure for the solution to get absorbed into the skin.

5. Wash your hands

Once you’ve finished, wash your hands thoroughly with soap until all of the excess minoxidil solutions are gone.

How to apply foam minoxidil in 5 easy steps (A simple, illustrated guide)

Applying minoxidil foam isn’t much different than applying liquid:

1. Wash your face thoroughly

Again, we recommend that you use a face wash or cleanser meant for the job, and not the same bar soap as you use for the rest of your body.

Before applying minoxidil, make sure that you’ve washed your face and beard area thoroughly, so that there aren’t any traces of dirt or oil left behind. This will ensure that the minoxidil absorbs as well as possible and doesn’t clog your pores.

2. Rinse your fingers with cold water

The foam will dissolve too quickly if you dispense it on warm hands. Instead, make sure they’re nice and cool.

3. Dispense the foam into your hands by tipping the can upside down

Do this, so the can’s head faces the ground. Use only enough foam as you’d need to fit into half the container’s cap – which is approximately 1 ml.

4. Use your other hand

The one you’ve cooled down, to apply the foam to your beard area, focusing on areas of patchiness at first.

Repeat until you’ve used all of the foam.

You don’t need to rub it in with great force. As long as you get it onto the skin and rub it in gently, the skin will absorb the minoxidil solution.

5. Wash your hands so that none of the solutions remains.

Some other thoughts about applying Minoxidil

You should apply Minoxidil, whether liquid or foam, twice a day unless instructed otherwise. Most men apply it in the morning and then at bedtime.

You should leave it in for at least four hours; after that, you can rinse or wash your face and apply a moisturizer if needed. But you don’t have to rinse it off if you so choose.

As mentioned previously, you should wait at least eight hours between minoxidil applications.

A common question concerns how long does Minoxidil take to work on your beard.

The bottom line is that, in most cases, you won’t see results for three to six months. You can stop using it after six months if you’ve experienced significant results.

But many men continue applying Minoxidil for up to a year; others may notice results before three months. Results vary from individual to individual, which is perhaps the most important thing to remember.

Another important question pertains to what happens to your beard after minoxidil treatments cease.

Do all the gains you’ve made, i.e., a thicker beard, disappear?

While some say the new growth falls off – if you hear it from a hair transplant expert, don’t be surprised – the majority of men say they’ve continued to have a thick beard for a year, or more, after discontinuing minoxidil treatments.

The rate of new growth may start to slow, and the shaft diameter may be slightly reduced.

The hair that’s likely to fall off after minoxidil treatments stop is vellus hair. Vellus hairs are fine and wispy, and often referred to as “peach fuzz.” These hairs contain very little pigmentation and are very hard to see, especially from a distance.

The hair that won’t fall off, at least immediately, is called “terminal” hair. Terminal hair is thick, pigmented, strong, and fully mature. Vellus hair becomes terminal hair when it matures but can fall off once minoxidil applications stop.

Minoxidil side effects: What to know

As effective as Minoxidil is for helping to create a thicker beard, it’s not perfect, i.e., there are potential side effects of which you should be aware:

Dry skin

Dry skin is a more common side effect when using minoxidil liquid. Some users report itching, skin redness, and other not-too-serious side effects.

Shedding

Shedding isn’t necessarily a side effect in a negative sense, but it’s most often part of the process of hair growth. That is, it’s new hair pushing out the old, and it’s something you may notice in the first several weeks of using Minoxidil.

So, don’t be alarmed if some hair falls out in the early stages of minoxidil use.

Lower blood pressure

True, Minoxidil is a drug used to treat high blood pressure, so it’s natural to assume that your blood pressure will lower if you use it, even topically.

But make sure that your blood pressure doesn’t dip too low, and you shouldn’t use Minoxidil in place of your regular blood pressure medicine.

Weight gain

Don’t be alarmed; you won’t blow up like a balloon after you start taking Minoxidil. But some users report slight weight gain, although there’s not necessarily a direct correlation.

Any subsequent weight gain can be the result of many other factors not pertaining to Minoxidil.

Acne

A less common side effect of Minoxidil is that it may cause acne – especially if you’re biologically prone to acne. Minoxidil tends to dry out the skin, and dry skin may lead to acne for some people.

The good news is that you can use moisturizers and acne products while using Minoxidil, and a good diet can help reduce acne flare-ups as well.

Fatigue

Another less common side effect of Minoxidil is fatigue. You may feel tired or sluggish, but there’s no reason to panic unless those feelings persist. In some cases, cutting back your use of Minoxidil may alleviate those side effects.

Dizziness or light-headedness

You may experience some dizziness and light-headedness after you start taking Minoxidil. But, again, there’s no real cause of alarm unless the symptoms persist.

Dark circles under the eyes

This is a minor side effect, for sure, but you can minimize it with a concealer or vitamin C.

Heart palpitations

Heart palpitations represent a more troubling side effect of Minoxidil. Reduce your dosage if you experience this side effect for more than two weeks – if they continue, make sure to check with your physician before continuing further use.

Minoxidil 2% vs. 5% vs. 10%

Products containing Minoxidil come in various concentrations, i.e., the percentage of Minoxidil included in them.

The higher the percentage, the stronger the dose, so to speak, although using a more highly concentrated product doesn’t guarantee better results in all men.

Minoxidil 2% is the original dose, although 5% is now the norm for treating hair loss in men.

It’s recommended that women use the 2% solution, although they can try the 5% concentration as long as it doesn’t cause side effects.

Does the 5% minoxidil solution deliver better results than the 2%? Studies show that the 5% version works at least slightly better than 2%. But a more than double dose of Minoxidil doesn’t guarantee twice the results.

And then there’s the 10% minoxidil solution, the most powerful of all, or at least one would think. But studies haven’t proved definitively that the 10% concentration provides a turbocharge to hair growth, on the scalp or beard.

In one study, in fact, the 5% topical minoxidil was proven slightly superior to the 10% topical version. Also, the 10% version led to skin irritation and even some shedding.

However, some people may have what’s known as minoxidil resistance in which their bodies don’t metabolize the drug into minoxidil sulfate, the drug’s active ingredient related to hair growth. In those cases, a 10% solution may be better.

But it’s also worth noting that you may see more growth when switching to the 10% version because Minoxidil often works in spurts.

In other words, the initial results from applying the solution may be inferior only because more of your hair is in a stagnant phase at that time.

The bottom line for most men is that the 5% solution should deliver the type of results you want. Plus, in some countries, it’s illegal to sell anything more than 5% minoxidil.

You should only think of trying a higher concentration if you don’t see results from 5% within several months.

Can you improve the results of Minoxidil in other ways?

There’s evidence that some compounds when combined with Minoxidil, may help enhance Minoxidil’s hair growth effects.

Tretinoin, a topical retinoic acid, can enhance the absorption of Minoxidil because, in part, it helps to clear plugged skin pores. An addition of 0.01% tretinoin to a 5% minoxidil solution, when used once a day, may be as effective as applying Minoxidil once a day.

Pyrithione zinc, which helps fight dandruff and may aid hair regrowth, has also been shown to be effective when combined with 5% Rogaine.

But that’s for scalp hair; pyrithione zinc is a key active ingredient in Head & Shoulders Shampoo, which we don’t recommend using on your beard.

Another great method to improve the results of Minoxidil is microneedling: by puncturing the skin very lightly with tiny needles, the blood flow increases and the skin is able to better absorb the Minoxidil.

DS Labs’ StimuROLLER Face is a great product to achieve this: with 540 tiny needles, it very effectively encourages the skin to absorb treatments. Plus it in-itself helps produce healthier and faster hair growth.

Other minoxidil brands you can use for beard growth

Minoxidil, the original that is, isn’t the only game in town regarding products you can use to enhance your beard’s growth. There are other brands, including generic, that many men can use on their facial hair and scalp.

1. Kirkland Signature Minoxidil 

What stands out about this product

• The formula is easy to use
• You get 6 months supply
• It is affordable
• Contains propylene glycol that increases absorption

Kirkland is a generic brand to Rogaine and contains most of the same ingredients, but it costs less. Kirkland, like Rogaine, offers a foam formula with a 5% minoxidil concentration, and it also – like Rogaine – offers a serum, as well.

Both Kirkland and Rogaine contain propylene glycol, which is thought to aid the absorption of ingredients into the skin. It also acts as a mild moisturizer and helps to increase the shelf life of products.

Kirkland, at least to some users, has a greasier feeling on your hands and hair. But it does seem to be less drying for both the skin and hair.

There doesn’t seem to be much difference between using Kirkland foam or serum except that the serum may absorb more easily into the skin.

Pros

• Large bulk pack contains 6 months supply
• Reactivates hair follicles 
• Contains 5% Minoxidil concentration
• Dermatologist recommended

Cons

• Some users do feel that their hair gets a bit greasy

2. Essengen-5 No PG Fast Dry Minoxidil

What stands out about this product

• Contains no propylene glycol
• Ideal for men with sensitive skin
• Specially developed for beards but can be used on the scalp

The “No PG” in Essengen means no propylene glycol. That’s good news for people who may experience allergic reactions to propylene glycol, and it’s a good choice overall for men with sensitive skin.

Instead, Essengen-5 uses glycerin, which helps to cut down on skin irritation. While glycerin tends to be greasier and absorbs more slowly into the skin than propylene glycol, Essengen has improved its formulation to make it faster-drying.

Like most minoxidil products, the recommended use for Essengen is 1 ml twice a day while leaving at least eight hours between applications.

Pros

• Ideal for people with propylene glycol allergies or sensitive skin
• It is very easy to use
• Contains 5% Minoxidil 
• Ideal for stimulating healthy beard growth
• Women can also use it

Cons

• The product is more greasy because glycerin is used to replace some other products
• It is a bit slow to absorb into your skin

3. Tugain

What stands out about this product

• Contains 10% Minoxidil extra strength
• Ideal for beard, scalp, or eyebrows
• Spray or dropper available for easy application

Tugain is an extra-strength product that contains 10% minoxidil. While a 10% solution generally isn’t needed to enhance hair growth, it does exist, and many men use it. 

Each order of Tugain includes a two-ounce bottle that will last a month if you use it daily.  You need to apply the product twice a day and massage it into the scalp.  It comes with a dropper or spray top.  Both of these are very convenient for easy application. 

Pros

• Easy to use
• Two different application methods for one product
• Contains a massive amount of Minoxidil
• You can use it on different body parts and your beard
• A lot of positive reviews from buyers
• A lot of people get better results from this product than others

Cons

• It is pricey

4. Equate 

What stands out about this product

• The set includes a three month supply
• Includes 5% Minoxidil
• Offers quick results

Equate is similar to Rogaine’s extra-strength products in that it comes in a 5% solution. You get three bottles per order, which is enough to last you three months. The solution also nourishes the skin to reduce itchiness and dryness.

Pros

• Easy to use
• A large batch is enough for 3 months
• The product is unscented
• It comes with a dropper
• The extra strength is ideal for boosting follicle regeneration

Cons

• It is more effective for some users than others

Maintaining your beard

It’s important to follow a good beard maintenance regimen, whether you use Minoxidil or not because a healthier, well-maintained beard is one that tends to thrive. So, what tools can help you grow a thicker beard (as you’re taking Minoxidil)? Here’s a look:

1. Beard wash & shampoo

A clean beard is a healthier beard and, besides, who wants a beard that features flecks of yesterday’s lunch, or smells like your friend’s cigarette or cigar? A clean beard helps add to an overall healthy appearance and can help create a better growing environment.

Cleaning your beard with a quality beard wash or shampoo has many benefits, including that it makes your beard soft and manageable.

Cleaning your beard gets rid of dead flakes of skin that turn into beardruff, the facial hair equivalent of scalp dandruff, and it prevents beard itch and other irritations caused by dry skin beneath your whiskers.

The thing to remember is that you shouldn’t use the same shampoo you use on your head to clean your beard.

Shampoo for your hair has two primary purposes, 1) to clean your hair, and 2) to get rid of the oil that makes it look greasy.

It does so by stripping the natural oil (sebum) from the skin. Many shampoos accomplish all this through the use of chemicals.

Beard shampoos, meanwhile, don’t contain harsh chemicals found in regular shampoo because beard manufacturers know that sebum is vital to the overall health of your beard.

The bottom line is that quality beard shampoos clean the grim, leftover food, and other debris from your beard without stripping the skin of much-needed oils. It also helps scrub away dead skin cells that can lead to itching and the dreaded beardruff.

So, as you’re treating your beard with Minoxidil to, hopefully, make your beard thicker and fuller, you should keep it clean and soft as possible, and shampooing it a couple of times of week will help you to do just that.

A beard shampoo that we think you’ll love is Professor Fuzzworthy’s Beard Shampoo. Made in Tasmania, Australia, Professor Fuzzworthy’s shampoo contains all-natural ingredients that aren’t too harsh on facial hair.

2. Beard oil

True beardsmen understand the importance of having a bottle of beard oil in their kit bag.

Beard oil has a long list of benefits, including that it moisturizes the beard and skin, helps to prevent beardruff, and keeps your whiskers soft and thriving.

A beard oil we really like, and think you will, too, is the Honest Amish Classic Beard Oil.

3. Diet

Minoxidil can help your beard thrive and become thicker. So can your diet.

The importance of maintaining a proper diet, whether you’re growing a beard or not, cannot be overstated.

Certain foods can help turn a patchy beard into a fuller one, including foods rich in vitamins A and Beta A carotene, vitamins C and E, B vitamins, foods rich in protein, and Omega-3 fatty acids.

4. Exercise

Like a healthy diet, a regular exercise routine will help your beard to thrive. Among exercise’s many beard benefits is that it improves blood flow, which helps stimulate hair follicles, it increases testosterone, and it boosts metabolism, which can spur hair growth.

5. Reduce stress

It often seems that our lives can become stressful in the amount of time it takes to snap our fingers. Too much stress has damaging effects on our minds, bodies… and facial hair.

Stress, among other things, restricts the flow of vitamins to hair follicles, while hair loss is often a typical response to excess stress.

So, chill out fellas, at least when you can, while engaging in stress-reducing activities such as meditation, exercise, and taking needed breaks along the way.

6. Rest

We all know how it feels after we get a good night’s rest. We also know how it feels when we don’t get enough sleep.

Besides the grogginess, lack of concentration, less productivity that can come with insufficient sleep, it can also lower testosterone and have an impact on facial hair growth. A lack of sleep can also lead to raised stress levels, which has a negative effect on hair loss.

7. Trimming your beard while using Minoxidil

It’s OK to trim and shave (or shape) your beard when using Minoxidil. Minoxidil absorbs well into the skin and shouldn’t pose a problem for trimming your beard. But you may want to keep your trimmer at a lower setting until your beard is full.

FAQ (Frequently asked questions)

How do you apply Minoxidil to your beard?

We discuss the how-to of applying liquid and foam minoxidil in a section above.

In short, you apply the solution to a clean face, using the recommended amount (1 ml), and leave it in for several hours.

You can apply it twice a day, but leave at least eight hours between applications.

How long does Minoxidil take to work?

Many men experience some beard growth within three to six months of taking Minoxidil. Results vary from individual, so don’t become frustrated if growth isn’t evident immediately.

What happens if you stop using Minoxidil on your beard?

Many users say that the gains they’ve made from using Minoxidil last a long while after they quit using it. However, you will probably notice thinning hair the longer you’ve stopped using it.

How long do you leave Minoxidil on the beard?

You should leave Minoxidil on your beard for at least four hours before washing or rinsing it. It’s recommended that you leave at least eight hours between applications.

Where to buy Minoxidil for a beard?

You can purchase Rogaine over-the-counter at most major pharmacies and supermarkets. You can also order it online through Amazon and other vendors.

How fast is Minoxidil absorbed into the beard?

Experts say you should leave Minoxidil in your beard for at least four hours because that will create a 75% absorption rate or higher.

When to wash your face after applying Minoxidil on your beard?

Again, four hours seems to be the magic figure; you should leave it for at least that long to guarantee a satisfactory absorption rate. Don’t wash or rinse your beard until at least four hours have passed.

Conclusion

Many men use Minoxidil to stimulate beard growth while eliminating patchiness that prevents whiskers from reaching their full potential.

The positive results are well-documented, and Minoxidil may be just the thing you were looking for to create a healthier-looking beard.

We’d love to hear from you, too. Do you use a minoxidil product on your beard? If so, which one? What kind of results have you had? We welcome your comments and suggestions.

Just in the United States alone approximately 35 million men and 21 million women suffer from hair loss. Imagine how much higher these numbers are worldwide.

Hair loss is common, and many think that it is out of our control, as genetics and age are considered the main reasons for thinning our hair. But that does not need to be the case.

Several products and treatments have been created and proven to promote hair growth, with the two most popular being Spectral.DNC-N and Rogaine.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the two, explain their differences in detail, and suggest which one we prefer, making your decision easier.

Quick summary

Rogaine vs. Spectral.DNC-N

Rogaine 5% Minoxidil Topical Solution 

The brand

Rogaine is a very well-known brand that provides effective topical treatments for hair loss to both men and women in the form of foam, drops liquid, or tablets.

The brand has been around since the 1980s, and it is the first brand that was started selling regular minoxidil as a treatment. Its name, ”Rogaine”, is synonymous with minoxidil like ”Hoover” for vacuum cleaners. So, you know that it has acquired quite a bit of a reputation throughout the years.

Ingredients

You might be wondering – what is minoxidil?

Minoxidil is the main active ingredient in Rogaine’s topical solution – and other hair loss solutions, and it is perhaps the most popular hair loss medication for over 40 years. It is a drug that is used not only for hair growth treatment but also as a treatment for hypertension.

Minoxidil is proven to work well, with users able to see results in less than six months. Its effectiveness is backed up by several scientific studies and trials.

However, its exact mechanism of action is not very clear until today despite its extensive research on hair growth. It is believed that it partially enlarges the hair follicles and lengthens the anagen hair growth phase, which results in more hair coverage.

Usability

Rogaine is most effective for people whose hair loss is at its first stages. If you are already lost all of your hair, it is unlikely you will see any results.

Nevertheless, it isn’t helpful for treating all kinds of hair loss, such as a receding hairline or baldness in the front of the scalp. It is proven most effective in persons who have genetic hair loss at the vertex of the scalp (the area at the rear of the head, just behind the crown).

In order to see continuous effects from Rogaine, it needs to be applied twice a day. Results usually are evident after three to six months, depending on the individual.

Applying it more than twice a day will not improve its results; instead, you will waste product and be forced to purchase a new bottle of it sooner than necessary.

If you suddenly decide to stop using it, you’ll stop experiencing any improvements in your hair loss as well. It is a treatment that you have to maintain using consistently as the results aren’t permanent.

What to think about

Upon using the product, you will definitely notice that it definitely makes your hair or scalp feel and look rather greasy. Nonetheless, the foam version is very easy to apply, particularly if you have longer hair in the application area.

Another thing to bear in mind is that, while Rogaine has been approved by the FDA as a hair loss treatment and is considered safe, if not used properly, it can provide a variety of side effects to its user.

The most common ones that can occur are:

• Scalp irritation, and itchiness
• Hair growth to other areas of your body such as your forehead
• Changes in hair color and texture
• Vomiting and nausea (if taken as a tablet)

Some more serious, but rarest side effects include:

• Increased hair loss, instead of hair growth
• Rapid weight gain
• Dizziness and lightheadedness
• Fainting
• Chest pain
• Fast and irregular heartbeat
• Excessive swelling or numbness of hands, feet, face
• Blurred vision

Disclaimer

Our goal is to give you the most up-to-date and relevant information possible. However, we can’t ensure that this information includes all possible adverse effects because drugs affect people differently. This material is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare expert who is familiar with your medical history about potential side effects.

Studies have also shown that women are more sensitive than men when it comes to, side effects. That is why the recommended allowance for women is 2% instead of 5% for males.

Concluding, while Rogaine is effective, people have started to look for alternative solutions because of its many side effects. One alternative, we’ve found out is the innovative Spectral.DNC-N which, is producing similar results (if not better) with a heck of a lot fewer side effects and irritations.

Spectral DNC-N

The brand

If you do research on DS Laboratories, you will notice one word popping up all the time in their branding philosophy ‘’innovation’’.

It is a brand that is working really hard like Rogaine to minimize the effect of hair loss on every human being.

They have managed to create a product that not only does it provide similar results to Rogaine/minoxidil, but also has fewer side effects: The Spectral.DNC-N.

Ingredients and usability

Spectral.DNC-N has as a main active ingredient Nanoxidil, instead of Minoxidil.

I’m sure you are wondering now, what is nanoxidil?

Nanoxidil is very similar to minoxidil in its structure, but the only difference is that it has a considerably lower molecule weight. This results in better penetration of the product by the scalp and thus, in a better absorption rate and fewer side effects.

You can think of nanoxidil as a more advanced version of minoxidil.

There are a lot of studies out there that prove its effectiveness in treating mild to moderate androgenic alopecia (another fancy word for hair loss).

In a recent study, in 2019, Spectral.DNC-N achieved around a 28.6% increase in hair growth within just three months of testing after ongoing treatment. The great thing is that researchers have come to the conclusion that it not only increases hair density and growth but also lowers inflammatory conditions on the scalp.

Unlike Rogaine, which causes greater sensitivity and side effects on women, the above research found that nanoxidil is highly successful in the treatment of early female pattern hair loss with no side effects.

But, there’s more.

Spectral.DNC-N includes additional ingredients that are also well known for their effectiveness in promoting hair growth. Some of the most notable are:

Retinol – This ingredient aids in the product’s absorption into the skin. It also blocks DHT (blocking dihydrotestosterone), which is known to shrink hair follicles in males.
Vitamin B2 – This vitamin aids in the treatment of receding hairlines.
Adenosine – This is a molecule that aids in cell optimization.
Copper peptides – which treat scalp irritation and inflammation.
Herbal extracts – which aid in the improvement of the scalp’s overall health and condition.
Caffeine – Also a popular DHT blocker

What else could you ask for from a hair loss treatment solution?

Additionally, unlike Rogaine, Spectral.DNC-N is effective not only in treating the vertex area of the scalp but also hairlines as well. This is extremely beneficial as you get better all-round results. And as the product is water-based, it is basically not greasy on the scalp, unlike traditional Rogaine.

Results from Spectral.DNC.N users

What to think about

However, it is important to note that while early results and several studies show the benefits of nanoxidil, as it is a fairly new ingredient, undeniably, you will find more research on minoxidil since it exists from the 70s. Nevertheless, current clinical results show that nanoxidil might be the way forward.

Verdict

As a male who has experienced male pattern baldness, I have used both Rogaine and Spectral.DNC-N.

While both products performed well in diminishing my hair loss, I was surprised how well Spectral.DNC-N performed. Using Rogaine, I used to have some scalp irritations every now and then, but after switching to Spectral.DNC-N, they were nonexistent.

If you are using Rogaine, saw results, and don’t have any side effects, then there is absolutely no reason for you to change your treatment. However, if you are experiencing irritations, or just starting to experience baldness, then Spectral.DNC-N, in my opinion, is the better choice.

Let us know in the comments below if you have used any of these two products, and your opinion.

While the causes of balding are mostly out of our control, how to stop hair loss – or at least slow it down – is another matter. Methods and techniques for treating hair loss and promoting hair growth abound, and we’ll delve into those methods in this article.

We also think it’s important that any information on how to stop balding should also include its causes, which is how we’ll begin.

An Overview – Why Do Men & Women Lose Their Hair?

A common question among men and women who experience hair loss is, “Why me?” It’s a valid question, and the answers cover a wide range of who we are – from our genetics to our lifestyle choices.

It’s estimated that as much as 95% of all hair loss sufferers are men and women under the age of thirty. This is probably because they have higher levels of male hormones circulating in their heads. However, there are a variety of other reasons why male or female hair loss occurs, including medical or genetic issues, severe stress, high levels of toxicity and chronic illness.

Before we dig into our list of hair loss treatments for men and women, let’s look at some causes.

MPB

MPB (male pattern baldness) is a dreaded acronym for many men and is about as popular as chronic halitosis. Its scientific name is androgenetic alopecia, and it refers to the process by which men begin to lose their hair, and continue to lose it.

The most common causes of MPB are genetics, hormones, and age:

• Genetics refers to the DNA that you’ve inherited from your parents and ancestors that, in many ways, represents the luck of the draw. If your father and grandfather lost their hair, chances are you’ll lose yours, too.
• Regarding hormones, something called dihydrotestosterone (DHT) plays a major role in baldness. Men who are pre-disposed to MPB inherit hair follicles that are sensitive to DHT. When testosterone converts to DHT, hair follicles shrink, which results in thinner, finer hair until hair growth stops completely. Note: DHT doesn’t mean that you have more testosterone than other men (sorry, fellas). It just means that your hair follicles are more sensitive to hormones.
• Meanwhile, there’s nothing mysterious about the role of age in hair loss, i.e., as men age their rate of hair growth decreases. Becoming older means experiencing hair loss, at least for the vast majority of men.

There are also some lifestyle factors that may contribute to hair loss, including smoking, stress, alcohol abuse, poor nutrition, and medications.

The list of medications that may cause thinning hair includes antidepressants, cholesterol-lowering drugs, high blood pressure medication, weight loss drugs, and non-steroid anti-inflammatory medication.

Hair Loss in Women

Hair loss in women is similar to hair loss in men, including that women also experience loss due to DHT – a hormone some think is exclusive to men but which women produce at lower levels.

That said, women also experience androgenetic alopecia or, in this case, female pattern baldness.

Women experiencing menopause have lower estrogen levels, which cause an imbalance of hormones that lead to excess production of DHT. However, additional factors may contribute to hair loss in women, including:

• Stress
• Pregnancy (which may result in temporary hair loss)
• Anemia
• An over-active immune system
• Poor nutrition
• Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

It’s notable that hair loss is more common in men than in women. Indeed, men – in most cases – are 30% more likely to experience hair loss than women because they’re prone to androgenetic alopecia.

Also, hair loss in men tends to be more noticeable because it starts at the temples and recedes.

On the other hand, women tend to experience baldness near the top or crown of their head, which is less noticeable. But how to stop hair loss in women is of similar concern.

Now that we’ve covered some of the causes of hair loss, it’s time to take a look at ways to treat it.

How You Can Stop Hair Loss Using These 15 Methods

1. Regrow Your Hair With Minoxidil

No list of hair loss treatments is complete without mentioning Minoxidil. Also commonly known as Rogaine, Minoxidil has FDA approval and many men praise it as a method to stimulate hair growth while also treating hair loss.

Minoxidil was developed in the 1950s as a way to treat high blood pressure. An unexpected side effect was that it stimulated hair growth all over the body, and not just on the scalp.

It works by allowing more oxygen, nutrients, and blood to reach hair follicles, which stimulates growth.

Or, that’s what they think is how Minoxidil works for treating hair loss because no one is 100% sure why it’s effective. In any case, it’s a legitimate treatment for male pattern baldness and thinning hair in women. And you’ll find plenty of studies to back it up.

It’s worth noting that Rogaine has the distinction of being the first hair growth drug approved by the FDA. You can buy it without a prescription, and it comes in extra strength for men and regular strength for men.

If you suffer from hair loss, some products worth checking out include Women’s Rogaine 5% Minoxidil Foam for Hair Thinning and Lossand Men’s Rogaine 5% Minoxidil Foam for Hair Loss and Hair Regrowth

2. Lipogaine: An Effective Way To Treat Hair Loss

Lipogaine is another treatment for men and women looking for a method to slow down the rate of their hair loss. It contains 5% minoxidil, a fairly standard but strong dose, and has the added benefit of blocking DHT. In turn, it helps support hair regrowth.

Here’s a look at a couple of products we like:

• Lipogaine For Men

Lipogaine For Men includes 5% Minoxidil but also a blend of herbs and other ingredients that block DHT.

Its ingredients include saw palmetto extract, biotin (a vitamin that supports healthy hair growth), niacin (which stimulates blood flow to the scalp), linolenic acid (a fatty acid used to support healthy hair growth).

It also includes vitamins B12 and B6 – which also help aid blood flow to the scalp.

One of Lipogaine’s many benefits is, as mentioned, is that it combines ingredients that fight hair loss while blocking DHT. Its list of ingredients includes many vitamins, which means you don’t have to buy hair loss supplements separately if you so choose.

• Lipogaine For Women

Minoxidil is one of the most important solutions for women looking to treat hair loss because they can’t use Finasteride, which we’ll discuss shortly.

That said, Lipogaine gets plenty of praise from customers because it has the Minoxidil component while also fighting androgenic alopecia, which is the equivalent of DHT hair loss in women.

Lipogaine For Women includes saw palmetto (which inhibits DHT) and ketoconazole, which also serves as a DHT blocker while fighting scalp fungus that may inhibit hair growth. It also includes oleic and linolenic acids.

3. Using Propecia to Block DHT While Promoting Hair Growth

Propecia, also known as Finasteride or Dutasteride, is another solution for how to stop hair loss in men. It works by inhibiting the process by which testosterone converts into DHT – as much as 70% according to some studies.

Propecia’s initial use was the treat prostate problems before being used to treat MPB.

It’s a drug that has some notable side effects, such as erectile dysfunction and a loss of libido, but the chances of experiencing those issues are extremely low (as low as 1% according to many medical professionals).

An important note: Propecia is for use by men only. It can cause birth defects in women exposed to it during pregnancy.

4. Transplants For Creating a Fuller Head of Hair

Hair transplants have been around for quite a while now and represent another option – albeit an expensive one – for dealing with hair loss.

The hair transplant process involves relocating plugs of skin from part of the scalp that contains active hair follicles to areas where hair growth has ceased.

Interestingly, the newly-transplanted hair often falls out within a few weeks of the transplant procedure but grows back from the relocated follicles over a span of several months.

The two common methods of hair transplants are follicular unit transplantation (FUT) and follicular unit extraction (FUE). The FUE method consists of transplanting individual follicles for less scarring.

5. Caffeine For Hair Loss?

Most of us associate caffeine with the daily jolt of java that lifts the fog of sleep while also giving us a kick start out the door in the morning. But caffeine isn’t just a dose of much-needed energy – it’s also good for treating hair loss.

Here’s the thing: studies show that caffeine, when applied to the scalp, can increase the lifespan of hair follicles while encouraging healthy hair growth.

OK, we’re not talking about caffeine in the same way as we talk about the stuff in your morning cup, but caffeine compounds that are applied topically and provide nutrients to the scalp.

One product we particularly like in the “caffeine for hair loss” market is the Ultrax Labs Hair Surge Caffeine Hair Loss/Hair Growth Stimulating Shampoo

It’s effective for men and women and, besides caffeine, contains ketoconazole and saw palmetto – two other powerful ingredients used to treat thinning hair.

Ultrax Labs markets its shampoo as a complete “delivery” system that delivers the right ingredients to you your hair follicles while making sure that they remain there.

You can use Hair Surge in addition to your regular shampoo or in place of it. In either case, the recommended usage is five times a week.

6. Nizoral A-D: An Anti-Dandruff Shampoo That Promotes Hair Growth

Many men and women suffer from dandruff, a condition that qualifies as aggravating and also a bit embarrassing (or a lot embarrassing, depending on how you feel about it).

Dandruff may have several causes, including irritated and oily skin, dry skin, not shampooing enough, and medical conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis.

The good news, if there’s such a thing as “good” news regarding those pesky white flakes falling like snow on your clothes, is that dandruff – by itself – can’t lead to hair loss.

The other good news is that dandruff is very treatable and there’s no shortage of shampoos and other hair products available to help rid you of the problem.

Among the shampoos is Nizoral’s A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo which not only fights dandruff but also contains ketoconazole that works to prevent hair loss while stimulating hair growth.

So, if you suffer from dandruff and thinning hair, Nizoral A-D packs a powerful one-two punch that addresses both issues. While it’s not intended for everyday use, you can use it a couple of times a week for two months and notice the results.

Lipogaine is a form of Minoxidil and an effective treatment in the fight against hair loss.

7. The Vitamin Solution to Hair Loss

Your hair is the same as every other part of your body in that it needs a variety of nutrients to thrive and survive. Many studies link vitamin deficiencies to poor hair growth and hair loss, which helps explain the wide variety of hair growth supplements available today.

HairAnew  is one such product and one that we think effectively fights hair loss in men and women while promoting hair growth. It comes in capsule form and also is healthy for skin and nails. But its effect on hair loss and growth is what interests us.

Let’s take a closer look:

• For starters, HairAnew is completely vegan and vegetarian and contains no collagen or animal products, and is free of gluten and soy.
• HairAnew’s list of ingredients includes vitamins considered essential for hair growth. Biotin, a B complex vitamin also known as Vitamin H, provides a variety of health benefits, including regulating blood sugar and, as mentioned, and keeping hair healthy.
• HairAnew contains 11 ingredients in all, including vitamins C, E, and B6, as well as zinc – which, among other benefits, keeps hormones in balance which helps promote healthy hair.
• Its combination of ingredients helps address all of the nutritional deficiencies that we, A) may not be getting in our daily diet, and B) and that can lead to hair loss, thinning, and diminished hair regrowth.

Again, HairAnew is suitable for men and women. It also comes with a money-back guarantee if you have experienced positive results after 30 or 60 days. The recommended dosage is two capsules daily.

8. Using a Supplement to Block DHT

No article on male hair loss is complete without mentioning DHT, that three-letter acronym with a big scientific name. We touched on it earlier, but the effects of DHT on hair loss and growth are worth a little longer look.

For one, DHT is an essential characteristic of every male because it helps develop their essential male characteristics – from a deeper voice to increased muscle mass to body hair.

DHT also plays a key role in the development of the testicles and penis in the male fetus.

But DHT is considered a key culprit in the development of male pattern baldness because it shrinks hair follicles which, in turn, leads to hair loss. Some estimates suggest that by age 50, over half of all men in the United States will experience DHT-related hair loss.

All of which leads us to the next product we find worthy in the fight against hair loss, the Advanced Trichology DHT Blocker With Immune Support .

Like HairAnew, it’s a dietary supplement in capsule form, but has a list of ingredients designed specifically to block DHT.

It also addresses issues beyond DHT that can negatively impact hair growth, including stress, poor nutrition, bacteria, fungus, and even the effects of medication on hair loss.

And it’s not just for men – the DHT Blocker With Immune Support System is effective for women who experience hair loss after taking birth control or hormone therapy, and who have a family of history of hair loss (men or women).

Another benefit for women is that it supports improved metabolism, hormonal health, and decreases bloating.

The DHT Blocker With Immune Support vegan and gluten-free formula include saw palmetto, green tea leaf extract, pumpkin seed extract, grapefruit seed extract, zinc, and more.

It also comes with a 100% money back guarantee; if you don’t find it useful after 120 days you’ll receive a full refund. The recommended dosage is two capsules twice daily, once in the morning and once at night.

9. Spironolactone: Another Product Used To Block DHT

Spironolactone, which comes in pill or topical form, also works to block DHT that can cause hair loss. It’s also used to treat female pattern baldness.

10. Laser Technology & Hair Growth

A more recent method for fighting hair loss is low-level laser hair therapy (LLLT) and its application methods include laser helmets and combs.

One of our favorites – and one of the most effective for fighting hair loss – is the iRestore Laser Hair Growth System  which consists of a plastic helmet with lasers and lights enclosed.

True, you’ll look like a stormtrooper, or like you own a one-of-a-kind bicycle helmet – but iRestore has the backing of many customers who report reduced hair loss and increased hair growth. It also has FDA clearance, which means it’s approved for safe use.

While the jury may still be out regarding the effectiveness of LLLT on hair growth, studies abound that give credence to the legitimacy of hair helmets and combs.

It’s also said to work well in conjunction with other hair growth treatments, such as Minoxidil, Rogaine, etc., to enhance those treatments.

How does it work? IRestore’s Hair Growth System includes 51 medical-grade lasers and LED lights the radiate energy to hair follicles. The energy enhances cell metabolism rate while reactivating follicles to stimulate hair growth.

Moreover, iRestore is safe to use and won’t burn the scalp, but users must take precaution to not look directly into the laser light.

One advantage that LLLT helmets have over laser combs is that they don’t require constant hand motions that can become tiring and inconvenient.

They also allow you to do other things, such as read or watch television, while you’re having your laser helmet session (which, in the case of the iRestore System, last 25 minutes).

The folks at iRestore recommend using their Hair Growth System every other day. They also offer a 6-month money-back guarantee if users don’t experience noticeable results. You can use it alone or along with other products.

11. Derma Rollers: Another Approach to Fighting Hair Loss

What began as a tool for skin care became a method for fighting hair loss. That’s the story of the derma roller, which is a plastic roller with needles on it that you roll over your skin and scalp.

The needles make small incisions in the skin which don’t cause bleeding (and there’s minimal, if any, pain experienced during the process).

The theory is that the minor skin damage caused by the derma roller will soon start to heal and regenerate, which leads to increased collagen production and increased nutrient absorption.

The same theory holds true for the skin on your scalp, or is expected to, at least. And the StimuROLLER Hair our pick of the litter in this category, is said to kick-start hair growth while cutting down on hair loss – particularly when used in conjunction to Minoxidil.

While many people say that derma rollers in general produce excellent results for promoting hair growth, there’s also a lot of people who say it has no effect at all.

In other words, the jury remains in the deliberation room and could be there a while.

12. Creating the Appearance of Hair Growth With Scalp Micropigmentation

Scalp Micropigmentation is a procedure that’s gaining popularity among men. It involves the use of microneedles to add pigment into the scalp – as you would with a tattoo on another part of your body – to create the appearance of tiny hair follicles.

A tiny wound is created in the skin when each dot is applied and a scab forms over the wound. When the scab falls away, it takes some of the implanted pigment with it and causes a gradual fading of the dots.

In other words, the procedure doesn’t promote hair growth but

Most SMP treatments are split over three separate sessions but results may vary from person to person. There are few, if any, side effects to scalp micropigmentation.

13. Using an Essential Oil For Hair Growth

Essential oils have many uses, not the least of which is their positive impact on a person’s overall health.

The list of essential oils includes rosemary oil, which is the most important ingredient in the 100% Pure Rosemary Essential Oil For Healthy Hair Growth by Maple Holistics

The 100% Pure Rosemary product addresses a wide range of wellness and beauty issues, including that it helps hair to become thicker while fighting hair loss and dandruff. It also serves as a DHT blocker.

Among its other benefits are that it promotes healthier skin, boost mental functions, while reducing stress. It’s also free of chemicals, parabens, preservatives, and additives.

14. Castor Oil Is Good For Your Overall Hair Health

To some folks, castor oil conjures up thoughts of being “stopped up” and having to – perhaps despite our many protests as children – taking it as a laxative. But castor oil does so much more and now has street cred as a way to facilitate hair growth.

Today, you’ll find a variety of castor oil products designed to fight hair loss, including the Sky Organics USDA Organic Cold-Pressed Castor Oil.

The latter is our top choice for castor oil that has hair-healthy benefits, while it’s also ideal for nourishing and hydrating the skin.

Castor oil is rich in vitamins and fatty acids and replenishes the scalp’s natural oils while strengthening thin hair, preventing hair loss, and repairing split ends. It also improves blood flow in the scalp and has antibacterial properties that combat bacteria and fungus.

Castor oil’s recommended use for fighting hair loss is to massage it into your scalp and leaving it there 30 minutes before rinsing it out. You can heat it to help it penetrate the scalp faster and add a few drops of lavender oil that promotes hair growth.

It’s also effective when left on overnight (make sure to cover your hair in some way, such as with a shower cap).

Another easy application involves adding a small amount (about 20%) of castor oil to your favorite conditioner.

15. Natural Methods For Hair Loss

Many people prefer using natural methods for dealing with issues such as hair loss. There are many such methods available, and we’ll touch on a few of him here:

• Essential oils

You’ll find essential oils for use in a variety of products, including those which address hair loss and hair growth. One method involves combining essential oils with a scalp massage to promote blood flow to the hair follicles.

Among the essential oils you can use are lavender, rosemary, thyme, peppermint, and cedarwood. While no scientific evidence backs up the claims of many who say the essential oil treatment stimulates hair growth, there’s nothing wrong with giving it a try.

• Egg oil

Some experts say that egg oil is helpful in preventing hair loss, as well as for treating dandruff and moisturizing hair.

Egg oil’s suggested use is to massage it into your scalp and leaving it on overnight. You’ll wash it off in the morning, preferably with a sulfate-free shampoo. Most people see results when they repeat the process two to three times a week.

• Hot oil treatments

Hot oil applied to the hair can moisturize it and stimulate growth. Simply warm up the oil – no more than 104 degrees Fahrenheit – and massage it into your scalp. Put on a shower cap and let the oil sit for 30 minutes before washing it out with shampoo.

Any kind of natural oil, such as olive oil, safflower oil, or canola oil, is suitable for this treatment.

• Lifestyle changes

There are many positive changes you can make in your daily lives that, at the least, will slow the rate of hair loss – whether it’s reducing stress, exercising more, eating healthier, refraining from smoking and excessive alcohol use, getting the proper amount of rest, etc.

Maintaining a meditation practice reduces stress and helps restore hormonal balance.

As you can see, there are many methods used currently to treat hair loss in men and women. It also seems likely that techniques and medication will continue to evolve.

Choosing the right solution for you is a matter of personal preference, and it pays to do your research and weigh all of your options before making your choice.

We welcome your feedback and suggestions, as always. Do you use – or have tried – any of the hair loss treatments listed above? If so, what are your results? We’d love to hear from you!

But the bottom line is that many men, and women, choose to fight back against male and female pattern baldness.

Perhaps they don’t like the results they’re getting from other strategies, including topical solutions that you’ll find in every supermarket or pharmacy shelf.

Besides, hair transplants have evolved tremendously over the years, and the skilled surgeons who perform them continue to set the bar higher for exceptional results.

So, if you’re considering a hair transplant, this guide’s for you. We’ll go in-depth to talk about hair transplants, the most common procedures, up and coming technology, and much, much more.

We hope to clear up any confusion you may have about transplants while helping you decide if one is right for you.

Here’s Why You’re Losing Your Hair

Millions of men and women across the world are losing their hair, or experience hair loss to a lesser degree. This is completely normal, because it can be found in over 90% of adults over the age of 35.

While it doesn’t seem as though you will lose any more hair than you already have, this doesn’t mean that it won’t cause problems for your self-esteem; or make things a little harder socially, especially in the workplace. The main question on top of everyone’s mind when it comes to if they should get a hair transplant is if it works.

If you’re considering a hair transplant, the chances are you understand a thing or two about hair loss. But it doesn’t hurt to cover the basics of hair loss and some of the reasons for it.

1. It’s all in your genes man

Many men are genetically disposed to experience hair loss. If you’re father or grandfather went bald, the odds are that you may, too. It’s all in your wiring, and there’s not a lot you can do about it, unfortunately.

It’s the same reason some men are short and others tall. You need only to look at your family lineage to have an idea of the odds of you going bald as you get older.

2. You’re a man, not a woman

Men are more likely to experience permanent hair loss than women. Studies show that 70% of men lose their hair, compared to 40% for women. To be more specific, men have a better chance of experiencing androgenetic alopecia – better known as male pattern baldness.

MPB starts with hair loss at a man’s temples and moves backward to form a distinctive “M” shape. But you can also experience hair loss at the crown of your head, as well.

3. Another dreaded acronym (DHT) and its role in hair loss

DHT stands for dihydrotestosterone, which is a by-product of the hormone testosterone. DHT shrinks hair follicles and makes it difficult for them to thrive.

Because testosterone constantly produces DHT – but at genetically-determined rates that may differ from male to male – men are more at risk for suffering hair loss.

Don’t be quick to bash DHT’s role, however, because it’s responsible for many important male characteristics such as body hair, muscle mass, a deeper voice, etc.

4. The 3 hair growth phases and how they affect hair loss

Having a better understanding of hair loss includes knowing the three phases of hair growth: anagen, catagen, and telogen.

• Anagen, the first phase, is when hair is growing. This phase may last for several years, depending on your genetics. When the anagen phase ends, the hair stops growing.
• Catagen is a transitional phase that follows anagen. During the catagen phase, the bulb at the bottom of hair follicles detaches from the blood supply and moves upward. The hair follicle shrinks to allow the upward push and becomes less stable. The catagen phase typically lasts about two weeks, if not less.
• Telogen represents the phase when hair follicles compromised during the catagen phase fall out, and your hair remains in the telogen phase longer as you get older. Which leads us to our next point:

5. Getting older means losing your hair

Aging causes our bodies to change in a variety of ways, and a man’s hair is part of those changes. Our hair thins as we get older, the anagen phase of hair growth becomes shorter, but – again – each person’s pace of age-related hair loss has a lot to do with genetics.

There are other reasons for hair loss, including medical conditions such as alopecia areata that causes hair to become patchy, or scalp infections. Some medications and supplements may cause hair to fall out, while radiation therapy also has an impact.

Meanwhile, lifestyle factors such as diet, smoking, alcohol use, and stress may hinder hair growth.

What Are The Different Types of Hair Transplants?

Something you’ll soon discover when researching hair transplant surgery is that there’s no one-size-fits-all technology.

Most patients choose one of two methods – Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) and Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT), although there are other methods, as well as promising new technology that could become relevant in the future.

Let’s start with FUE and FUT procedures, the two most common types of hair restoration.

1. FUE surgery – What it is, its advantages and disadvantages

In both FUE and FUT procedures surgeons harvest hair follicles from an area of the head or body and transplant them to the area of the scalp where hair is thinning or falling out.

So, how does hair transplant work?

An FUE hair transplant involves the extraction of follicles from a larger donor zone, which maximizes the number of available grafts. Follicles are removed individually with a small, specialized cutting device.

Surgeons use a local anesthetic to numb the area of extraction and the process is painless.

In both FUE and FUT surgery, tiny sites are created using fine blades and needles for where the grafts from another part of the head are inserted. Because FUE involves the extraction of individual hair follicles, the surgery is tedious and takes longer.

In many cases, surgeons and clinics split an FUE procedure into multiple, shorter sessions.

The advantage of FUE, however, is that no large cuts or stitches are needed. There’s no linear, more noticeable scar, and your recovery time is quicker than with a FUT procedure.

It’s important to note that the number of available grafts – in both FUE and FUT – vary from patient to patient. But FUE potentially has more possible grafts because hair is taken from a larger area since there are no visible scars left behind.

There’s only a finite number of available grafts in both FUE and FUT surgery, and multiple procedures deplete the donor area over time.

So, who would most benefit from the FUE method?

• Men and women with smaller areas of baldness
• People who prefer shorter hairstyles
• Patients who prefer less-invasive procedures and don’t want cuts or stitches on the scalp.
• People who lead active lifestyles, including athletes.
• Patients who prefer and need a shorter recovery period.

There are some disadvantages to the FUE method, including:

• The entire donor area must be shaved, in most cases. The area includes the sides of your head and the back of the scalp, which isn’t as much of an inconvenience for men have shorter hairstyles. In less extensive procedures – typically 1,000 grafts or less – patients may be able to keep their longer hairstyle.
• The grafts extracted during FUE surgery are often more fragile than those extracted during FUT. An FUE graft includes the hair follicle, bulb, and some of the surrounding tissue, but not the protective dermis and fat that’s harvested from a FUT procedure.
• An FUE procedure tends to be more expensive than FUT.

There are also steps you’ll need to follow before FUE surgery (we’ll talk about post-surgery aftercare a little later), such as:

• Don’t take aspirin, vitamin E, or multivitamins 10 days before the procedure. Aspirin inhibits the function of platelets that help stop bleeding.
• Don’t drink alcohol or take an anti-inflammatory medication three days before surgery. Also, limit your exposure to the sun.
• If you color your hair, make sure you have it done within three days of your procedure to provide better visualization of the hair.
• Refrain from smoking one week before your procedure as it may delay healing.
• Taking 1000 to 2000 mg of vitamin C before surgery may help with healing.

2. FUT surgery – what it is, its advantages and disadvantages

FUT, also known as strip harvesting, involves the extraction of a strip of hair from a part of the head in which hair is growing. The surgeon then uses a microscope to divide individual hair follicles into small groups before inserting them into bald areas.

The donor zone for a FUT hair transplant typically is the sides and back of the scalp. The surgeon can harvest more hair follicles in one strip than with other types of hair transplant procedures, and more hair is “moved” in one sitting than with FUE.

Each graft contains oil (sebaceous) glands, nerves, a tiny bit of muscle, and some fine hairs. Surgeons place the grafts into tiny incisions made on the scalp in a single session.

Again, the primary advantage of a FUT procedure compared to FUE is that larger areas of baldness are covered in fewer sittings – and often in one session. That makes it more suitable for patients who have significant areas of baldness.

There are other advantages, however, including that FUT tends to provide a more natural-looking head of hair once the healing is complete, and that it’s more affordable than FUE.

Some disadvantages of the FUT procedure include:

• Noticeable scarring in the donor area.
• A longer recovery period.
• The risk of local inflammation and infection if proper care isn’t taking during and after surgery.
• Patients need to refrain from strenuous activity for one month following the FUT procedure.

Among the steps you should take before a FUT hair transplant are:

• Don’t cut your hair within two weeks of the surgery and leave your hair a half-inch long on the back and sides to provide a covering for sutures.
• Don’t take anti-inflammatory medication for one week before the procedure.
• Limit your sun exposure to ensure that your scalp isn’t sunburned when you arrive for your initial FUT session.
• Let your surgeon know if you’re taking blood thinners or broad beta-blockers.
• Refrain from smoking and drinking at least a week before your transplant. Both habits may inhibit healing.
• As with an FUE transplant, color your hair within three days of surgery to provide better visualization of your hair.

3. Other hair transplant techniques: The role of robots

A promising 21^st-century technology involves the use of robotics to perform hair restoration procedures.

While the technology isn’t new to this century, it has taken a dramatic leap forward, and many of the top hair transplant surgeons in the world have adopted it.

FUE robotic hair transplants involve the use of a 3D image-guided program with a robotic arm. The physician controls the system, which also includes video imaging, live motion tracking, and a user interface.

The major advantage of this technology is that it’s much faster than labor-intensive manual transplants.

There are other advantages, including more consistent graft extraction, but make sure the physician you choose has plenty of experience with the technology.

4. Stem cell hair transplants – the wave of the future?

A stem cell hair transplant represents the potential frontier of hair transplants and is still in the development stage. It’s similar to traditional hair transplants except that a small skin sample is taken from the donor area of the scalp instead.

Specialists replicate the follicles found in the skin sample and implant them back into the scalp – both in the area of hair loss and the donor zone.

Several research teams are working on stem cell hair loss treatments and a transplant was completed successfully in 2017 by Italian researchers.

While procedures may differ slightly among those developing them, they’re all based on growing new hair follicles in a lab setting.

For now, there’s no guaranteed outcome of stem cell procedures, but that may change in the next few years.

5. Platelet-rich treatments

Another newcomer in the world of hair loss and restoration treatment is platelet-rich plasma treatments (PRP). It’s a non-invasive procedure that’s used to treat sports injuries, including damage to ligaments, muscles, nerves, and joints, as well as for skin rejuvenation.

Recent studies show that PRP can serve as an effective, safe procedure for treating hair loss in men and women.

PRP is sometimes used in conjunction with hair transplant surgery to help reduce swelling and pain, to increase hair thickness, and also as a stand-alone hair growth procedure.

Here’s how it works:

• A specialist draws blood from the patient’s arm and places it in a centrifuge that separates the blood’s platelets from other red and white blood cells.
• The platelets are activated by mixing them with calcium chloride, thrombin, and (sometimes) collagen.
• Activated platelets, when injected back into the body, have several naturally-occurring substances that can stimulate cell growth, healing, as well as epidermal growth and connective tissue growth.

The use of the patient’s blood and tissue during PRP treatments enables physicians to harness their healing power to promote natural hair growth without having to move hair from one part of the scalp to another.

Deciding Whether to Get a Hair Transplant – The Pros and Cons

Going bald is, for many men, a disheartening, even traumatic experience. All that hair that helped you rock your final year of high school photo is gone forever and with it – you may think – comes the end of your most handsome, virile years.

Not so fast.

In many countries, including the U.S., becoming bald isn’t the punch to the gut it used to be, and many men prefer to shave their head rather than wait for the inevitable day in the not-so-distant future when it all falls out.

Some women say that a man with a bald man seems more masculine, strong, and even dominant.

Keep in mind, however, that we – and they – are talking about men who are completely bald (such as Bruce Willis and others), not men who are in various stages of hair loss and trying desperately to make it seem not so bad.

And whatever you do, guys, don’t compensate for hair loss by doing a “comb-over” to cover the bare spots on top of your head. There’s probably a very small percentage of women who find a comb-over attractive, and good luck finding one.

But rocking the bald look successfully, in which you give off a strong, masculine vibe, means also having an attractive build and dominant air. If not, a bald head may make you seem old and less virile.

All that said, we’re not encouraging you to go bald because it might help make you seem more attractive to women. Our focus is on hair transplants and why you should consider getting one. There are some pros and cons.

Pro:

• A nice head of hair is attractive to women

True, we’ve just discussed that women today find (some) bald men attractive. Hell, bald is even beautiful, or so the saying goes. But the fact remains that a woman’s perception of a man who has a full head of hair is almost always positive.

A study by John Hopkins University showed that men with a natural head of hair were perceived 1.1 years younger than their actual age. Meanwhile, men who had a hair transplant appeared 3.6 years younger.

The same study also showed that men with a nice head of hair also scored higher in categories such as attractiveness, successfulness, and approachability.

Con:

• A nice head of hair doesn’t necessarily raise your confidence

Even if you get a hair transplant and feel more confident, it still comes down to your overall confidence. If you’re a confident person bald or not, the chances are good that you’ll remain confident in all areas of your life.

But if your hair loss makes you feel less attractive, your feelings of inadequacy may become more obvious.

Besides, accepting your baldness may also raise your confidence level. In turn, that boost of confidence helps you withstand societal pressure.

Pro:

• A hair transplant is permanent

The results of a hair transplant don’t just last for a year or two, but they last forever. Your newly transplanted hair won’t fall out. However, any hair on your head that isn’t part of a transplant continues to fall out at its normal rate.

Con:

• A hair transplant is surgery, after all

Make no mistake, a hair transplant is a surgical procedure and the mere thought may cause a spike in your anxiety levels. Then again, it’s not a surgical procedure in the same sense of, say, open heart surgery – not even close.

The good news is that most clinics offer patients a light sedative and you’ll be awake the entire time.

Pro:

• A hair transplant looks natural

A hair transplant isn’t like wearing a toupee or wig. Instead, you’ll get a natural-looking head of hair that’s subtle and not overtly obvious.

The bottom line is that you’ll love the hair transplant results, especially when a highly-trained, experienced surgeon performs the procedure.

Con:

• You’ll need recovery time after a hair transplant

Like with any surgical procedure, a hair transplant requires the proper amount of healing time. Most surgeons recommend that patients wait seven to 10 days after the procedure before resuming normal activities.

Among some things you can do to aid the healing process is to protect your newly-transplanted hair from direct sunlight (for up to three weeks) and to avoid tugging, pulling, or scratching your hair.

Pro:

• Your new hair needs no specialized treatment

Once the recovery period has passed you can resume your normal hair care routine – from shampooing it, to having it cut and styled, to brushing it and having it colored.

Con:

• You need to continue your current hair loss treatments

You may believe that having a hair transplant allows you to stop using hair growth/hair loss treatments such as Finasteride (Propecia) and Minoxidil (Rogaine). Not so fast.

While the decision may vary from case to case, most transplant specialists recommend that you continue to use hair loss products. There are a few reasons why:

• While a hair transplant restores hair, and its natural growth, on the part of the scalp where the transplant takes place, the rest of your non-transplanted hair continues to shed at its normal rate. The problem is, you’ll have parts of the scalp where hair is thriving (from the hair transplant) and others in which hair is shedding. The result is hair that looks uneven and patchy.
• Some surgeons believe that using Minoxidil during post-surgery aftercare helps the transplanted hairs to grow faster.

There’s no need to use products such as Propecia and Minoxidil if you’ve lost all of your hair. But you should consult with your doctor to make sure you have enough donor hair available to cover your scalp.

Pro:

• A full head of hair may help you in your career

Several studies indicate that “attractive” men and women receive more advances and pay raises at work. Many managers prefer people who look young and energetic, and we’ve already discussed how men with nice hair appear younger.

Con:

• What qualifies as “attractive” today may change

Fashion styles come and go, sometimes in what seems like a matter of months, as do people’s perceptions of what qualifies as physically attractive.

A couple of centuries ago, people considered women with full hips and a rounded stomach desirable because it indicated wealth. It only makes sense – you can eat enough to get chunky, therefore you must have money to afford all that food.

Even just a few decades ago, women with hourglass figures captured their fair share of the Hollywood.

The bottom line is that what’s considered attractive today always changes, at least somewhat. It’s anyone’s guess whether a man with a full head of hair still earns sizable attractiveness points 100 years from now.

But, in the society we live in now, having a nice head of hair certainly doesn’t hurt. Not that a bald man can’t garner his share of attention, but it does help if they have the kind of masculine features and head shape that are compatible with a bald head.

Here’s What You’ll Pay For a Hair Transplant

Creating a new head of hair over parts of the scalp where hair isn’t growing is a highly specialized process. The results, in many, many cases are amazing and patients feel a renewed sense of confidence and attractiveness after their hair transplant.

But – and there’s always a “but” – you’ll also pay a significant amount of money for your new head of hair and the surgeon’s specialized services.

A hair transplant typically ranges in price from $4,000 to $16,000, in most cases, and most insurance companies don’t cover the costs of the transplant because they classify it as cosmetic surgery.

The cost of a transplant varies from clinic to clinic and depends on the patient’s level of hair loss. Many facilities that offer FUT or FUE (or both) methods charge per graft, and each graft typically consists of one to four hair follicles.

Other factors also affect the price of a hair transplant procedure, including:

• The type of procedure you choose – An FUE transplant usually costs more than FUT.
• Where you live – The cost of living where you reside and the number of surgeons in your area can influence what a surgeon charges.
• The surgeon’s skill – The better the surgeon, the more expensive your procedure may be.
• The amount of hair transplanted – Transplanting hair on the entire scalp costs more than treating smaller patches.

Other factors may affect your overall cost, including travel costs if you choose a specialist who doesn’t have a clinic in your area. Plus, there are aftercare costs such as the price of pain medication – if you need it – and antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medicine.

While you may feel tempted to find the most inexpensive surgeon and treatment, do keep in mind that a cheaper option may result in a less-than-satisfactory transplant.

And, let’s face it, a cheap-looking transplant that looks unnatural can result in a lot of embarrassment.

We recommend that you don’t skimp on the money but search for a skilled surgeon in a price range that works for you. On the other hand, a higher price doesn’t guarantee a more skilled surgeon, so do your research carefully before you choose a clinic.

Hair Transplants: Some History & Everything Else You Need to Know

Everything starts somewhere and hair transplants are no exception. While the roots – no pun intended – of modern hair restoration surgery began in the 1930s in Japan, the world’s quest for a fuller head of hair didn’t start there.

Indeed, snake oil salesmen of the 1800s, particularly those in America’s Wild West, had all sorts of hair loss “cures” and were more than willing to sell them to any sucker who crossed their path.

Those salesmen had a tough job and a set of iron cajones considering that their potential client list included hardened outlaws and other nasty folks who were quick to draw their guns when irritated.

No, not an easy gig, and the fate of those early hair restoration con artists depended on their ability to sell grease that may or may not have made hair look thicker.

Treating hair loss attained more legitimate status thanks to the work of Japanese dermatologist Dr. Shojui Okuda who developed a technique for restoring hair on burn victims.

Another Japanese doctor later developed a method that used smaller hair-bearing skin grafts to, oddly enough, replace lost pubic hair on female patients.

New York dermatologist Dr. Norman Orentreich performed the first hair transplant surgery in the U.S. in 1952 on a man suffering from MPB.

Orenteich’s methods laid the groundwork for modern hair transplantation, and by the 1960s the procedure had found a permanent place in the world of cosmetic surgery.

The development of modern hair transplant surgery included large plug technique, in which surgeons used skin grafts (plugs) of multiple hair follicles. The procedure’s main downside was the extremely slow growth of transplanted hair, however.

Minigrafts and micrografts, consisting of hair grafts of three to six hair follicles, helped define hair transplant surgery in the 1980s, while the technology of the 1990s made it possible to move a large number of grafts from one part of the head to the other.

The surgical instruments became smaller and minimized trauma to the skin tissue.

Today, thanks to the advent of FUE, FUT, and other procedures as well as evolving technology, hair transplants remain the gold standard for treating hair loss.

Some common questions people have about hair transplants

Deciding to undergo hair transplant surgery is no small commitment. For one, your appearance is at stake and, consequently, your self-esteem, as well.

Will my hair transplant look natural?

A hair transplant completed by a qualified, trained surgeon will have a look so natural that it may fool your hair stylist.

That’s another reason why it’s important to choose your surgeon and clinic carefully, because results can vary widely from one procedure and clinic to another.

Will people notice my hair transplant?

This question is closely related to #1, but is still relevant because hair transplant surgery does leave tiny scabs around the incisions. While the scabs usually fall off within a week, they’re noticeable if not concealed by existing hair.

Can I get a hair transplant at any age?

Male pattern baldness doesn’t wreak havoc only on older men. It can also happen to men in their 20’s – and even earlier – and many young men today consider hair transplants a viable option.

That’s understandable considering that men who start losing their hair earlier in life have a higher risk of going bald later.

But most surgeons suggest that men wait at least until their mid-20’s before considering a hair transplant over other options. Why? It comes down to a few things:

• The donor area, or “zone,” of a younger man’s head may not be stable. That is, you need a permanent zone to draw hair from because there’s no guarantee that the donor hair will stay put while the donor area continues to thin.
• Because a man’s hair loss continues into his 30s, and even beyond, a man who receives a hair transplant in his 20s will likely need additional treatments as he ages. It’s hard to determine the long-term stability of donor hair when patients are very young.
• A hair transplant is most effective when used to restore a normal adult hairline, not an adolescent hairline that’s still changing.
• Because it’s difficult to tell the eventual pattern of hair loss in a younger person, a transplant could lead to an unnatural appearance as you lose more hair.

Is hair transplant permanent?

Yes, hair transplants are considered permanent and it’s one of many reasons why you may want to consider having the procedure to deal with hair loss.

Hair transplants are permanent because the hair obtained from the back of the scalp is genetically more durable than hair found on other parts of the scalp.

However, the transplanted hair is subject to the effects of aging as any other part of the body, and becomes finer and turns gray as you get older. But in many patients and surgeons report that transplanted hair turns grayer more slowly than existing scalp hair.

Is hair transplant painful?

You’re not alone if you have some anxiety about experiencing pain during a hair transplant.

Fortunately, the vast majority of patients report feeling no pain during an FUE procedure. Your surgeon injects a mild anesthetic into your scalp before the surgery; there may be some mild discomfort during the injection and some discomfort post-surgery.

FUT surgery is a bit more painful but, again, many patients say discomfort is minimal. Medicine is sometimes prescribed to deal with post-transplant pain.

Restoring scalp hair isn’t the only game in town these days, either. Beard transplants – which we’ll compare with hair transplants a bit later – have become popular among men who, due to genetics and other factors, have trouble growing a full beard.

Like hair transplants, a beard transplant relies on FUE and FUT technology to move hair from one part of the body to the other. The result is a permanent, natural-looking beard.

Some Do’s and Don’ts of Hair Transplant Aftercare

What you do in the period right after your hair transplant is crucial for ensuring that you get the best results.

Taking the proper aftercare steps also helps you to return to your daily routines faster and to enhance your hair transplant success rate. Here’s a look at some do’s:

• Follow your surgeon’s instructions. Your surgeon doesn’t give you aftercare instructions just to hear himself or herself talk. There are general aftercare guidelines you should follow, but the instructions given by the person who performed your transplant are of utmost importance.
• Keep your scalp dry the day of and day after your transplant to allow the skin to start healing.
• Keep the area around the scalp as clean as possible during recovery. You may feel soreness and numbness in the graft area, but don’t put anything on your scalp that hasn’t been approved by your surgeon.
• Take painkillers if you feel pain and discomfort in the hours immediately after surgery. The general anesthetic given you before the procedure will have worn off and you may have some soreness and swelling. Contact your surgeon if pain and swelling persist, but those symptoms are normal post-surgery side effects.
• Wash and shampoo your hair a day or two after surgery to clean scabs around grafted hairs. This prevents the scabs from damaging hair follicles and thwarting hair growth. However, wait four or five days after the procedure to wash your hair under a showerhead; hand wash it instead with water collected from the tap or other source for the first few days after surgery. Ask your surgeon for recommendations of shampoos you can use safely.
• You can use an ice pack to relieve swelling or soreness during the first week following surgery but don’t place the pack directly on the grafted area.
• Have someone available to drive you home after the procedure because you may still feel the effects of the anesthetic applied before the surgery.

Some things you shouldn’t do after your transplant include:

• Exposing your head and transplant area to direct sunlight for several days. If you need to be in the sun, wear a hat for protection.
• Don’t pick at the scabs on your newly-grafted scalp because doing so may cause the grafts to fall out.
• Don’t drink or smoke for several days, if not longer, after the procedure. Drinking and smoking interfere with the blood flow needed to heal your transplanted area.
• Don’t work out or play sports for around ten days after surgery. Try not to engage in any activities that cause excessive sweating because it may increase your risk of getting an infection. Avoid playing contact sports – such as basketball and soccer – for the first month after surgery, although a short routine walk or jog is often OK.

You’re Not Alone – Celebrities Who’ve Had Hair Transplants

If you decide to get a hair transplant you’ll join a club whose member list increases with each passing year. It’s also a club inhabited by many notable people (not that you’re not notable), including the following well-known gents:

1. Wayne Rooney

The British soccer star had hair transplant surgery in 2011 and now sports a nice, albeit short, head of hair.

2. Elon Musk

While no one can prove beyond a doubt that Musk, the former PayPal CEO, had a hair transplant, a noted transplant specialist said he’s almost certain that Musk’s revived locks are the by-product of a surgical procedure.

3. John Travolta

Travolta’s head of hair was the envy of many men during his Saturday Night Fever days. Well, the effects of aging took their toll and left Travolta with a decidedly receding look, but now he sports a full head of hair that’s reminiscent of his youth.

Is the transformation the result of a transplant? Most observers say it is.

4. Matthew McConaughey

McConaughey’s hair had all the signs for MPB before the turn of the century but it returned with a vengeance a few years later and helped him become People magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive in 2005.

5. Elton John

The singer of hits such as “Bennie and the Jets” and “Rocket Man,” Sir Elton may have the distinction of being one of the first celebrities to receive a hair transplant. Or is just incredibly good at rocking a wig.

6. David Beckham

Rooney isn’t the only soccer ace to get a second lease on his hair’s life. Beckham, like many others, has likely dealt with his receding hair by getting a transplant.

7. Sean Penn

Penn’s once admirable head of hair began to fall out as he got older – surprise, surprise – but he, allegedly, opted for a hair transplant.

8. Bono

U2’s frontman was losing his hair at a rapid rate before he had a transplant to stop the shedding.

How a Hair Transplant is Different – and Similar – From a Beard Transplant

The surge in popularity of beards in the past several years has also seen a rise in the relatively new science of beard transplants.

While many men desire a full, wondrous beard, not all of them can achieve it because of a variety of factors, including genetics. But beard transplants offer a solution for those who can’t get the beard they desire on their own.

Like a hair transplant, the hair used for a beard transplant is moved from one part of the body to another – in this case, the area of the face where a beard normally grows.

While the procedures used for each are similar, there are differences between beard and hair transplants, however.

The characteristics of scalp and beard hair differ, for one. Beards and mustaches consist of single-hair units that don’t begin to appear until puberty.

Androgens, i.e., male sex hormones, power beard growth and facial hair increases in density for new few decades, depending on the individual.

Meanwhile, as we mentioned earlier, the action of androgens (DHT) can cause hair loss on the scalp and lead to male pattern baldness. The hair follicles of some men are more sensitive to certain male hormones.

Another difference that relates to hair and beard transplants is the overall density of the hair. Facial hair has less density than scalp hair. Facial hair follicles typically are in more of an elliptical shape, as well, when compared to the more oval or circular shape of scalp hair.

Here are some more differences and similarities between hair and beard transplants:

• The procedure

While the removal of hair grafts from the donor area is similar for both beard and scalp transplants, the harvest and distribution of them are different.

If not enough hair is available in the “donor zone” (the back of the scalp) for a beard transplant, hair from other parts of the body – arms, legs, chest, etc. – is often used. But the preferred zone is the back of the scalp, where hair is particularly resistant to hair loss.

Another difference between hair and beard transplants is that surgeons use smaller incisions when transplanting hair to the facial region.

• The types of hair and beard transplants

Hair and beard transplants generally follow two methods – Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) and Follicular Unit Transplant (FUT). We discussed both procedures earlier in the article, and both have similar advantages and disadvantages for beard transplants.

One of the benefits of using the FUE procedure for a beard transplant is that it doesn’t leave a linear scar. Tiny, white scars are left behind in the donor zone, but they’re barely visible – even if you have shorter hair.

The FUT beard transplant procedure harvests a greater amount of hair, which may make it easier to achieve a maximum, “full” look on the face.

The hair harvested during a FUT beard transplant procedure usually comes the middle of the donor zone to ensure the maximum number of grafts.

The typical full beard transplant may consist of approximately 2,500 grafts while the average number of grafts available ranges anywhere from 4,000 to 7,000.

• The cost

Beard transplants, like hair transplants, aren’t inexpensive. You may pay anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000 for a beard transplant at a reputable clinic with properly-trained, experienced surgeons.

Make sure you do your research before choosing a clinic – especially if you decide to save some bucks by going to a lower-priced clinic.

You always want to be safe rather than sorry when you decide to do something permanent, such as a hair or beard transplant.

• Your hair will fall out after a beard transplant

Say what?! Yes, it’s true: your newly-transplanted hairs fall out within three weeks of having your transplant procedure. Not to worry, however, because those hairs get replaced by hair that grows from the new grafts. Indeed, temporary shedding is simply part of the process.

• Facial hair transplants aren’t just for beards

A facial hair transplant often involves creating a fuller beard, but the procedure also works for mustaches, goatees, and sideburns. Or, the transplant may only involve filling in patchy areas of facial hair.

• The risks

The risks involved with a beard transplant include pain at the donor and recipient sites, bruising, swelling, infection – not unlike the risks of having a hair transplant.

• The result

The results for both hair and beard transplant procedures are permanent, i.e., the hair that’s transplanted is permanent. Non-transplanted hair continues to fall out for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is the aging process.

If you’re man long-plagued by a patchy beard, you’ll like that you won’t have to endure that patchiness again after you’ve had a beard transplant.

What Are Some Alternatives to Hair Transplant Procedures?

Millions of men are willing to do what it takes to prevent hair loss and regenerate hair growth.

Hair transplants incorporate ever-changing technology and offer a more permanent solution than other hair loss treatments but there are many other options available.

Let’s start with the “Big 3” of hair loss treatments – finasteride, minoxidil, and ketoconazole.

1. Finasteride, aka, Propecia

Before we get into what Propecia is and how it works, let’s first talk about one of its supposed “drawbacks.” Specifically, Finasteride/Propecia has had a reputation – mostly undeserved – of causing a loss of libido in men, as well as erectile dysfunction.

Both side effects cause many men to consider other hair loss treatments, but you shouldn’t let nightmares of a limp noodle scare you away. Why?

Because a very small percentage of men (1% or less) have experienced these side effects and, in some cases, just the thought of something affecting a man’s sex drive and his beloved tool causes things to become, well, a bit flaccid.

We’re men, after all, and “limp” is sometimes a four-letter word stronger than the rest.

All that said, don’t let Finasteride’s less-than-likely side effects scare you because you’re probably in the 99% who never experience them. OK, enough on that, let’s look at how the stuff works.

• Propecia fights hair loss by reducing levels of DHT in the body. More specifically, it works by reducing an enzyme called 5a-Reductase that converts testosterone into DHT. Propecia blocks DHT at its source and will, potentially, slow hair loss while regenerating hair growth.
• Several scientific studies show that Finasteride helps prevent hair loss at the vertex scalp – the area on the top of the head that’s slightly behind your hairline.
• Propecia blocks up to 70% of DHT and can block, reverse, or even reverse hair loss. Note: there’s some debate whether Propecia can regrow hair, although many users report hair growth when taking it. In any case, it won’t replace all of the hair you’ve lost but it can prevent you from losing more, and may even cause new follicles to sprout.
• The most common method of using Propecia is by taking 1 mg pill every day but many men use it every other day or even three times a week. You should see results in three months.
• Propecia received FDA approval for treating MPB in 1997.
• You can get Propecia from your regular doctor or dermatologist, and online. Be wary of sketchy pharmaceutical sites if buying it online, however.

2. Minoxidil

Like Finasteride, Minoxidil has FDA approval as a way to treat hair loss. It began as a drug used to treat high blood pressure in the 1950s, but one of its side effects was hair growth. And for men with receding hairlines, hair growth was a most pleasant side effect.

Minoxidil works by widening blood vessels and improving blood circulation to the scalp. In turn, more oxygen, nutrients, and blood reach the hair follicles to make them stronger.

It also lengthens the anagen (growth) phase of hair growth. Unlike Finasteride, Minoxidil doesn’t work as a DHT blocker.

You may know Minoxidil by the common brand name Rogaine, and it typically comes in liquid or foam versions. Minoxidil may also go by Lipogaine, Regaine (in Europe), Kirkland Minoxidil, Foligain, etc.

Lipogaine provides the added advantage of including DHT-blocking ingredients. They don’t pack the same punch as Finasteride in the DHT battle, but they do give minoxidil a bit of a boost.

Kirkland Minoxidil costs less than Rogaine and many men choose it because of its price. The main reason Kirkland Minoxidil costs less is that Rogaine supposedly uses better ingredients. But Kirkland Minoxidil is often just as effective as other Minoxidil products.

While Finasteride may be a bit more potent than Minoxidil, there aren’t potential sexual side effects with Minoxidil. You’ll also find Minoxidil practically everywhere and it’s available over-the-counter.

Great example — Rogaine Minoxidil Foam (for Men) 

3. Ketoconazole

Ketoconazole, also known as Nizoral, is the last component of the hair loss treatment Big 3.

Nizoral comes in a shampoo form and its active ingredient is ketoconazole, which inhibits hair loss and MPB by inhibiting DHT and by reducing inflammation that can lead to hair loss.

Nizoral shampoo comes in two versions, 1% and 2% Ketoconazole, and you’ll probably need a prescription for the 2% version. In either case, it’s not considered as strong as Finasteride or Minoxidil, but it’s still an effective way to fight hair loss.

Here’s the other thing: you should use Nizoral in conjunction with Finasteride and Minoxidil. You won’t get the same results if you use it alone, and you shouldn’t expect hair regrowth.

Instead, you will see a slower rate of hair loss than you experienced before you started to use it.

Don’t use Nizoral, or other Ketoconazole brands, in place of your regular shampoo.

Most men use it every other day, or even just once a week, with positive results. Cut back on its use if your hair becomes brittle. You apply it as you would any shampoo, but leave it on for five to 10 minutes before washing it off.

Great example — Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 

Some other hair loss treatments for men

While the Big 3 are popular among many, many men looking to for ways to fight hair loss, there are other options, as well:

• Dutasteride

Think of Dutasteride – or its “street” name, Avodart – as a stronger form of Propecia. It packs a wallop regarding DHT reduction and prevents DHT from attaching to hair follicles. You can only get it with a doctor’s prescription.

• Spironolactone

Topical spironolactone works as a topical DHT blocker. While not considered particularly strong, spironolactone is the go-to option for many users.

• Derma rollers

A derma roller works much differently than Finasteride, Minoxidil, etc., because it’s a small plastic roller with numerous tiny needles that you can use on your scalp.

The needles make small incisions on the skin (but won’t cause bleeding or even hurt) so that the skin will heal and regenerate.

In turn, the production of collagen – the most abundant protein the body and something that benefits the hair, among many other parts of the body – increases. Your skin also becomes more able to absorb nutrients.

The jury is still out regarding the effectiveness of derma rollers, but some people swear by them. To others, well, a derma roller doesn’t do a damn thing.

Great example — StimuROLLER Hair

• Scalp micropigmentation

You’ll often hear scalp micropigmentation referred to as the “hair tattoo,” which gives you a good idea what it entails.

Indeed, scalp micropigmentation is a process that uses microneedles to tattoo the scalp while giving the appearance of tiny hair follicles. It’s particularly effective for adding density to areas of the scalp with thinning hair.

Trained technicians use the microneedles to layer pigment dots on your scalp. The procedure creates the illusion of a full head of (shaved) hair.

Each dot is applied into a tiny wound on the skin, and a scab forms over the wound and eventually falls off, taking some of the pigment with it.

That’s why scalp micropigmentation often requires multiple sessions to get the proper pigment shade. Technicians usually apply lighter shades first before introducing darker shades during subsequent sessions.

An initial micropigmentation procedure usually lasts from three to five hours while additional sessions typically take less time as technicians fine-tune things to get the correct blend of density and darkness.

Patients may experience some discomfort during an SMP session but the discomfort becomes more tolerable as the session progresses.

But it’s safe to say that SMP causes less pain than most tattoos, although everyone’s tolerance for pain and discomfort is different.

Most patients can return to work the day after a scalp micropigmentation procedure. They may experience a slight redness on the skin that lasts from 24 to 48 hours.

While only trained technicians perform SMP, results may vary from company to company. That’s why it’s important to do your research to find the most reputable SMP companies before choosing one to handle your procedure.

The last thing you want is a hair tattoo that doesn’t look realistic.

A scalp micropigmentation doesn’t come cheap and generally costs from $2,000 to $4,000 in the United States. But SMP is also used to conceal scars, blemishes, or other types of trauma to the skin. It’s even used to blend birthmarks into the scalp.

• Hair growth vitamins and supplements

Another treatment option includes the use of vitamins and supplements targeted to encourage hair growth while slowing down hair loss. Vitamins such as A, B12, H, C, E, and D are important for hair growth.

Vitamin H, better known as biotin, is an essential ingredient in hair growth supplements.

Important minerals and proteins such as folic acid, iron, zinc, niacin magnesium, calcium, riboflavin, can also stimulate hair growth. Vitamins are essential to healthy hair but need help from minerals and proteins to promote hair growth.

It’s important to choose a supplement that both reduces hair loss and improves hair growth and, in every case, choose one that’s proven to block the effects of DHT.

Great example — Revita Nutraceutical Tablets for Hair Growth

• Laser combs and helmets

Some men choose laser combs and helmets to treat hair loss – while promoting hair growth – and swear by their effectiveness, but others remain skeptical.

Laser combs and helmets utilize Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) to prolong the anagen phase of hair growth while also increasing blood flow to the scalp to help ward off the effects of DHT.

At least one clinical study show that laser combs produced positive hair growth results in men and women, and combs and helmets have FDA approval for safety (but for their effectiveness).

A laser comb is a manual device that you move over your scalp as it emits laser light. Laser combs are cheaper than laser helmets and treatments typically take less time.

Laser helmets, just as their name implies, involve placing a plastic shell over your head. The shell/helmet has medical-grade lasers and LEDs to radiate light energy that’s absorbed by the hair follicles.

The helmets are lightweight and fit comfortably on the user’s head. The typical laser helmet session lasts from 20 to 30 minutes.

You can use laser helmets and combs in combination with other hair-loss treatments, including Minoxidil, supplements, and hair-growth shampoos.

Great example — Irestore Laser Hair Growth System 

• Toupees & Wigs

Men have covered bald spots with wigs and hairpieces for thousands of years.

They don’t have to now thanks to hair transplants and other procedures designed to conceal hair loss, as well as topical solutions such as Finasteride and Propecia, but some men still prefer wearing a toupee or other type of hairpiece.

While the popularity of toupees is waning – their use has declined by 30% in the U.S. and Asia – you’ll have no trouble finding one if that’s your thing.

And there are some advantages of wearing a toupee, not the least of which is that they cover bald spots (which is the name of the game we’re talking about here, after all).

Some toupees consist of human hair, which improves their authenticity, and are easily attached to existing hair.

You’ll also find them in a variety of styles and colors, which makes it easy to find one that fits your skin tone and style of dress, and they’re more affordable than most other methods used to deal with baldness.

Ah, but there are disadvantages, as anyone who’s seen a man with an ill-fitting toupee can attest, and you need to carefully consider your choices before ordering a toupee from an online seller:

• A toupee can fall off if not securely attached and that can create a boatload of embarrassing consequences.
• A toupee that’s not a perfect match with your existing hair is, well, way too obvious.
• Toupees need regular cleaning, and their color may fade over time, leaving spots and blotches that are way too noticeable.
• Acrylic toupees have a short lifespan; in most case, less than a year.

Wigs provide another option for men seeking solutions for their hair loss. While men’s wigs aren’t nearly as common as women’s wigs, they have come a long way thanks to evolving technology and manufacturing methods.

Many men’s wigs consist of synthetic, natural-looking hair fiber that doesn’t lose its shape or style. Lace front wigs, which are tied by hand and have a sheer lace band that goes onto the scalp, are the most popular type of men’s wigs today.

The general rule-of-thumb for both toupees and wigs is that, the better the hairpiece, the less others will notice it. Finding the right match is everything.

Conclusion

Man’s quest to cover up thinning and balding hair has gone on for ages and will continue for many years to come. While the bald look has gained widespread acceptance, the fact is that many men – and women – prefer a full head of hair.

Hair transplants represent the most overall effective method of covering bald spots, and you can’t argue with their realistic-looking results. Transplants aren’t cheap, but the right surgeon and right clinic will make your investment worthwhile.

Meanwhile, the future seems unlimited regarding new technology for dealing with hair loss. There are alternatives to hair transplants now, and it’s safe to say there will be more as researchers perfect new methods and techniques and make them available to everyone.

How about you? Have you had a hair transplant or are you considering having one? What’s your opinion of hair transplants? We always encourage your feedback, and we’d love to hear from you. Until next time, friends.

There’s also the uncertainty that comes from being a man who is losing his hair. While not as potentially life-altering perhaps, as other changes in our lives, the prospect of going bald is a big fear for many men.

And with it comes the million-dollar question: How long does it take to go bald?

The consensus of hair loss experts and men who’ve completely lost their hair is 5 to 25 years.

The problem is, the process of going bald doesn’t always follow a nice, neat pattern. In fact, it’s insanely unpredictable. While one guy loses some hair but stays the same for several years, another guy loses all of his in only five years.

The good news is that we live in an era where baldness is accepted and, in many cases, viewed as attractive.

If you’re tired of fighting the MPB (Male Pattern Baldness) and hair loss battle, by all means, shave what’s left and go with a nice, shiny dome. You’d be in good company, too: Bruce Willis, Vin Diesel, the Rock, and much more.

OK, let’s take a closer look at not only how long it takes to go bald, but also the reasons behind it and things you can do to try and stop it.

Common Signs That You’re Going Bald

We know what you’re thinking – “My hair falling out is the most common sign that I’m going bald.” Yep, we get it. But just because you notice a few extra stray hairs on your pillow doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re going bald.

Let’s define a few terms first.

Alopecia is the blanket term for hair loss. Symptoms of alopecia include a small bald patch in your hair to a complete loss of body hair. But there are many types of alopecia, with the most common form being male pattern baldness (MPB).

When it comes to men and hair loss, MPB is a term used frequently, and it’s also known as androgenic or androgenetic alopecia. It affects about half of all men before they reach the age of 50.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to look for with male pattern baldness:

• MPB is typically evident at the front of the scalp first. For many men, the hair on the temples and crown seem to be most sensitive to DHT (dihydrotestosterone), which we’ll touch on a bit later.
• The frontal hairline forms into an “M” pattern as the hair on temples and crown recedes.
• Sometimes balding on the crown of your head becomes more noticeable before the hair on the front. You check with a mirror if you’re not sure, or hesitant to believe it.
• If you really want to be sure, take photos of your hair every month to check on potential hair loss.

Male pattern baldness is different from alopecia areata, in which you experience patches of hair loss. Alopecia areata may occur suddenly and can afflict men, women, and children of all ages.

Alopecia totalis, meanwhile, is the term used when you lose all the hair on your scalp.

What are other signs you’re going bald? Well, that excess hair on your pillow may be a sign, as well as the abundance of hair left behind in your comb or brush.

But remember: if you’re human, you’re shedding hair because most people lose anywhere from 50 to 100 hairs a day.

Hair loss in women

At least men have options. That is, when a man starts to lose his hair, he can always shave his head and join the expanding “bald is beautiful” crowd. Pairing a bald head with a beard is not only commonplace but also looks great in many cases.

Going bald is a different story for women, however. For one, the psychological damage of hair loss is often much greater for women and can take a heavy emotional toll that affects physical health.

For another, few women choose to shave their head and go with the bald look.

The most common cause of hair loss in women is Female Pattern Hair Loss, a.k.a., androgenetic alopecia.

The Academy of Dermatology reports that 30 million women are affected by FPHL. And FPHL has a distinct appearance in that a women’s hair thins mainly on the top and the crown of the scalp.

It typically begins with a widening of the center hair part. Women tend to keep their hairline, unlike men.

FPHL shrinks the hair follicles to make them shorter, thinner, and more brittle. Eventually, there’s a decrease in the total number of follicles. It is rare, however, that a woman goes completely bald due to FPHL.

While FPHL is the biggest culprit in female hair loss, other factors come into play:

• Telogen effluvium, which is a stress response due to a major shock to your emotional or physical health. Hair will grow back when stress is the cause.
• A nutritional deficiency or illness.
• The side effects of certain drugs.
• Alopecia
• A fungal scalp infection
• Overtreating of your hair, such as with curling irons, hot rollers, or coloring the hair.
• Some women suffer from a mental disorder known as trichotillomania, which causes them to pull out their hair frequently.

When Will You Start to Lose Your Hair?

Male pattern baldness can begin at any age. Research shows that one-fifth of all men will experience some hair loss by age 20, and the percentage grows with age.

By the time you’re in your 30s, there’s a 30 percent chance that you’ll face the hair-vanishing wrath of MPB, with a 10 percent increase in each subsequent decade.

In other words, if you live to your 90s, there’s a 90 percent chance you’ll suffer hair loss, significant or not.

It’s always fun to look at those high school yearbook photos of you and your classmates – “Look at all that hair!” But if you look closely, you’ll probably notice the signs of MPB in at least a few of them – including thinning hair and a receding hairline.

But the majority of men with MPB start noticing their hair loss in their mid to late 20s.

For some men and women, the symptoms of hair loss are gradual enough that it doesn’t become noticeable until a good chunk of hair already is gone.

This type of “invisible baldness” involves a slow decrease in the hair’s density until it ultimately becomes noticeable to the naked eye.

You may also experience temporary hair loss that’s unrelated to MPB. Examples include hair loss caused by stress, certain medications, illness, etc.

That old saying about, “This job is causing me to pull my hair out!” is at least partly true in a figurative sense – except that excess stress is doing the “pulling” for you.

But the bottom line is that most men and women lose hair thickness and amount as they age. Women have the advantage in that inherited baldness is much more common in men. Indeed, over 20% of men begin to bald before age 30.

But back to the original question:

How long does it take to go bald?

OK, so let’s take a closer look at how long it takes go bald.

We’ve already mentioned that it typically takes a man 5 to 25 years to go bald once MPB grabs you by the scalp. How long does it take to go bald from alopecia?

Well, MPB and alopecia are one in the same, unless you have a different form of alopecia, such as alopecia areata (caused by an autoimmune disorder), or cicatricial alopecia (which results from inflammation around the hair follicle and has no known cause).

And we talked how the rate of hair loss is different for every man, although there are certain similarities among large numbers of men. For some men, thinning and hair loss may stop before their hairline reaches their crown.

Here’s the thing: about 100 hairs each day reach the end of their resting phase (telogen) and fall out. That’s normal. But if more than 100 hairs fall out daily, you have a problem. This is when clinical hair loss starts to occur.

Here’s the other thing: once hair loss begins it’s hell trying to slow it down. Hair loss may be gradual or not-so-gradual, but it’s always relentless. Hair loss doesn’t care what you think. It just keeps coming.

That said, you don’t go bald all of a sudden, and that’s the good news, as it were. Your thinning hair will come back and go through several more cycles (which we’ll talk about shortly); the problem is it comes back thinner and weaker with every cycle.

Perhaps the best answer to how long it takes to go bald is, “it depends.” While that’s not exactly going out on a limb, it’s as close to the truth as any other answer.

• The Norwood Scale

We wouldn’t be doing our job if we didn’t mention the Norwood Scale in a piece about balding. The Norwood Scale is a set of images which show the different stages of MPB.

There are eight “stages” on the Norwood Scale, with the first stage depicting minimal hair loss. The last stage represents the most severe form of hair loss when you have little or no hair left on the front or top of the head.

Basically, the scale provides a visual image by which men assess their hair loss. The rate at which a man advances through the stages differs from individual to individual.

So, Why Am I Going Bald?

In the grand scheme of things, losing your hair isn’t THAT big of a deal.

But we’re not diminishing anyone’s feelings about going bald, by any means, and for many men going bald is the emotional equivalent of a kick in the ass (or other lower body part). We feel your pain.

If you’re one of those men, you’re undoubtedly asking yourself – and others – “Why me?” It’s not because you’re a bad person, but it’s almost always because:

• You’re genetically predisposed to suffer hair loss

Sometimes it’s all about the luck of the draw. Your dad lost his hair. So did his dad. Or your mom and her dad and granddad had thinning hair. Simply put, there’s a genetic DNA blueprint that’s out of your control.

• Hormones

One term you’ll find in every article about baldness is “dihydrotestosterone.”

It’s a big word and has a big impact on why men lose hair. Why? Because when testosterone converts to DHT, your hair follicles shrink and your hair becomes thinner and finer until growth simply ceases.

While some men think that their hair loss is due to too much testosterone, they don’t have more testosterone than the average guy, in most cases. The fact is, men with MPB are more sensitive to hormones, including DHT.

• Age

Nothing too complicated here, fellas – as you get older your rate of hair growth slows. If you see an elderly man with a full head of hair, don’t hesitate to congratulate him. After all, he struck gold in the genetic lottery.

• Other factors

Studies show that other factors may contribute to hair loss, including smoking, diet, alcohol use, and certain medications such as anti-depressants, cholesterol and high blood pressure medicine, certain antibiotics, and more.

It’s also well-known and documented that chemotherapy drugs used to treat cancer cause hair loss. Chemo drugs wipe out rapidly expanding cancer cells but also attack other cells in your body, including those that cause hair growth.

The good news is that most hair loss associated with chemotherapy is temporary.

Skin disorders, such as psoriasis, dermatitis, follicle infection, and even sunburn, may cause hair loss. Fungal infections may also be a culprit, along with medical conditions such as thyroid disease, lupus, diabetes, and anemia.

Hair Growth: How it Works

It’s always helpful to understand the mechanics of hair growth to understand male pattern baldness. Let’s take a quick look at the three stages of hair growth:

1. Anagen

Anagen is the growth phase of your hair and individual hair follicles may remain in this phase for two to six years. In most cases, 85% of hair is in this growth phase and the longer it lasts, the longer the hair.

2. Catagen

The catagen phase is much, much shorter than the anagen phase – it lasts no more than two weeks – and it allows the hair follicle to renew itself.

3. Telogen

The telogen phase is when hair follicles remain dormant and may last up to two months. When the telogen phase ends and the anagen phase kicks in, existing hair is pushed out by the new growth.

So, what does it all mean? For men with male pattern baldness, the anagen phase shortens and hair follicles grow smaller. Additionally, the hair’s maximum length is reduced while the telogen phase becomes longer.

OK, I’m Going Bald. What Can I Do About It?

So, you’re going bald. You’ve probably been panicking about this for a while, and maybe it’s even starting to affect your day-to-day life.

But the thing is, the vast majority of guys are going to go through this at some point in their lives — so you’re not alone. The good news is that there are many things you can do to improve your situation.

While going bald isn’t the end of the world for men, it’s also understandable that you’re stressed out by the relentless march of male pattern baldness. And the bald look may not be for you.

But MPB doesn’t necessarily predict total scalp armageddon thanks to the variety of products and treatments available to men (and women). Let’s examine some of these solutions.

1. Shampoo

There’s a multitude of hair-loss shampoo on the market, which is good news. The bad news is that the quality can vary widely from product to product, so buyer beware. Make sure that you choose only the highest quality hair loss shampoos.

There are four key ingredients in hair loss shampoo: ketoconazole, caffeine, biotin, and saw palmetto. We’ve discussed these ingredients in previous posts, but here’s a quick refresher:

• Ketoconazole – Research shows that ketoconazole helps improve hair density, follicle size, and the proportion of hair that’s in the anagen stage. It’s also effective in treating a scalp fungus called Pityriasis.
• Caffeine – No, you don’t have to pour your morning java onto your head. But the caffeine found in hair-loss shampoos prolongs anagen duration, enhances the length of hair shafts, and stimulates the growth of keratinocyte – which is most abundant cell found in the outer layer of your skin.
• Biotin – Hair loss may be the consequence of a biotin and zinc deficiency. Also known as vitamin B7, biotin helps strengthen hair and nails. It’s also a vital component of skin cells, which play an important role in hair follicle health. You’ll find biotin in many food sources, such as eggs, peanuts, cauliflower, bananas, whole grains, and more.
• Saw palmetto – The science behind saw palmetto shows that it may block an enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT.

2. Hair growth products

There’s no shortage of hair growth products on the market, either. Like choosing a hair-loss shampoo, be on the lookout for snake oil-like products when shopping for the best hair growth products. Let’s talk about the most popular – and common – hair growth products:

• Minoxidil

Commonly

, minoxidil is a drug for treating hair loss in men and women.

Minoxidil was originally used to treat high blood pressure, but patients and physicians noticed that hair growth was one of side effects. That led to the development of a topical solution designed to be applied directly to the scalp and skin.

• Lipogaine

Also a member of the minoxidil family, Lipogaine is a powerful hair loss treatment with proven results. Lipogaine reduces DHT levels on the scalp while increasing hair growth by stimulating blood flow to the scalp.

• Finasteride

Also known as Propecia, finasteride is another drug that’s used to treat hair loss. Finasteride often gets a bad rap because of the negative effects it may have on a man’s sex life, but studies show that the likelihood of experiencing them is slim and none.

• Supplements

Dietary supplements such as vitamins are thought to increase hair growth.

3. Hair loss treatments

Your search for solutions to your receding hairline may also lead you to less conventional treatments, such as scalp micropigmentation, derma roller, and iRestore Laser Hair Growth System

• Scalp micropigmentation

Scalp micropigmentation is a process in which microneedles are used to tattoo pigment into the scalp. In turn, the process creates the appearance of tiny hair follicles to give the hair a fuller look. SMP treatments typically take three sessions.

• Derma Roller

A Derma Roller also uses the tiny needles approach, except that the needles are attached to a small plastic roller which you roll over the affected areas of the scalp.

Its purpose is to stimulate the body’s natural healing process – and thus creating a new layer of skin that’s better than the older layer.

It also increases platelet activation and skin wound regeneration, activates stem cells in the hair bulge area, and activates pathways in the hair follicles that are inhibited by DHT.

Some researchers also say that using a derma roller in conjunction with minoxidil treatment helps regrow hair better than using minoxidil alone.

Derma rollers are also used for exfoliation of the skin on nearly every part of your body and is used to treat acne as well as stretch marks in women.

• iRestore Laser Hair Growth System

Approved by the FDA, the iRestore Laser Hair Growth System is, as its name suggests, laser technology for the treatment of hair loss.

Low-level laser therapy through a helmet-like device stimulates your hair follicles so that they grow thicker and fuller. And so far, so good: a 2017 study showed that the average increase in hair count was 43.2% while using iRestore.

Conclusion

All that said, we’ve now covered the hows, whys, and what-to-dos of hair loss, all while addressing the question of “How long will it take to go bald?”

Again, the bottom line is that the rate of hair loss is different for each, but the overall consensus is that complete baldness occurs within a 5 to 25-year time frame.

Not that you have to sit back and let nature run its course, however. After all, there’s a long list of products out there – from shampoo to laser therapy – that may help you hold off baldness.

Or, like many men, you may choose to shave what’s left and sport the bald look proudly. Pairing it with a beard will only add to your awesomeness.

What are your experiences with hair loss? When did you first start to notice it? And, are you using any hair-loss products now (and how do they work)? As always, we’d love to hear from you. Your feedback is always welcome.

For most people, hair loss is out of their control as genetics, age, and other factors contribute to thinning hair and, eventually, baldness.

That’s why hair loss products such as minoxidil and nanoxidil are so popular – because they can fight the effects of male and female pattern baldness while reducing the emotional distress associated with it.

We’ll discuss minoxidil vs. nanoxidil in this post while showing what they do to treat hair loss. We’ll also look into other factors, including the hair growth process.

Minoxidil vs. Nanoxidil: The scientific difference

While minoxidil and nanoxidil are different (and the same) in a lot of ways, a key difference is in their molecular structure. Nanoxidil has a similar molecular foundation as minoxidil but it has one less carbon chain.

In turn, that gives nanoxidil a larger molecular weight than minoxidil – which means it has a greater skin absorption capacity, as well.

Another key difference is that minoxidil focuses on treating the vertex (crown) area of the scalp while nanoxidil treats both the vertex and the hairline. The latter is good news for the many men who have a receding hairline.

Let’s take a deeper dive and examine minoxidil and nanoxidil more closely.

Minoxidil: The original

A couple of things you can say about minoxidil from the beginning:

1. It’s backed by scientific research and trials,
2. It’s the only over-the-counter hair loss solution recommended by the FDA
3. It has a long history.

The Upjohn company – now Pfizer – created minoxidil in the 1950s as a way to treat ulcers and hypertension. But one of its interesting side effects was that it promoted hair growth.

From there, the rest was history as scientists channeled this information into creating a solution for fighting male pattern baldness.

How it works

One of the many interesting things about minoxidil is that scientists don’t quite understand how it works for stopping hair loss and promoting new hair growth.

But it’s considered a potassium channel opener which, in short, widens blood vessels and improves blood flow to the scalp.

As a result, minoxidil allows more blood, oxygen, and nutrients to hair follicles to help make them healthier and more able to thrive.

Hair that’s in the telogen phase of the hair growth cycle – which we’ll touch on a bit later – sheds and is replaced by thicker hair in the anagen (growth) phase.

Minoxidil primarily treats the top of the head (vertex), not the hairline. But it remains the most popular hair growth agent for men and women.

Minoxidil’s results

Minoxidil works by increasing blood flow to the scalp, which delivers more nutrients to the follicle that produces hair. The increased nutrient supply allows hair to grow longer than it normally would at its current rate of growth.

While scientists may not know exactly how minoxidil works, enough studies show that it does work. In a clinical study conducted by the FDA, 26% of men experienced moderate to dense hair growth by using the 2% minoxidil treatment for four months.

Other studies show that even better hair growth results when using the 5% minoxidil version. Which leads us to our next topic:

Minoxidil 2% vs. minoxidil 5%.

You can purchase minoxidil in either the 2% or 5% versions. The percentages indicate the amount of minoxidil contained in the product. The FDA approves both versions, but nothing above 5%.

While the 5% version is available to men, it’s not recommended for women because it may cause unwanted hair growth on other parts of the body.

What’s better? As you might expect, a larger dose of minoxidil has a greater impact on hair growth; one study showed that 5% minoxidil produced better results than the 2% version – up to 45% more hair regrowth in some participants.

The study even showed that participants had more positive psychological impressions of hair loss when using the 5% version.

The 5% minoxidil and 2% are the same in that neither is good for restoring growth or preventing hair loss along the hairline. Also, minoxidil isn’t effective if you have significant hair loss. It’s best for men or women over 18 who have gradually thinning hair.

4 Types of minoxidil

Minoxidil comes in four types: liquid, aerosol, foam, and minoxidil for beard treatment. Which one you choose depends on personal preference and the area of treatment.

• Liquid minoxidil

Liquid minoxidil is the “original” and still widely used today. It contains propylene glycol, water, and alcohol, along with minoxidil.

It’s typically less expensive than other minoxidil types and many users say you need less liquid to cover an affected area as you do with foam.

• Minoxidil foam

Some minoxidil users experience adverse reactions to the propylene glycol found in minoxidil liquid, which is the main reason for the development of minoxidil foam.

It’s convenient to apply and many minoxidil users feel that the foam is less messy and less greasy than liquid minoxidil overall. It also dries quickly.

• Minoxidil aerosol

Aerosol minoxidil consists of a mixture of foam and liquid versions. It’s relatively easy to apply and comes in a 5% minoxidil formula. It’s not recommended for use by women.

• Minoxidil beard treatment

Men with patchy beards may find it difficult to grow a full, lustrous face of whiskers. But minoxidil is among the products that may enhance beard growth, and scientific data shows that the 5% solution is effective for use on beards.

Check out Rogaine For Men if you think your beard hasn’t reached its full potential.

Minoxidil: The bottom line

There’s no denying that minoxidil helps many men and women in the fight against hair loss. While it’s still not clear how minoxidil works for treating hair loss and spurring hair growth, it does work for a lot of people.

Here are some things to keep in mind as you consider whether to use minoxidil or not:

• It’s easy to get because you can purchase it over-the-counter without a doctor’s prescription. But it’s a good idea to check with a doctor before you buy it to determine the cause of your hair loss. Minoxidil won’t work if you have an underlying health condition that’s responsible for hair loss instead of the more common male and female pattern baldness.
• Minoxidil is relatively easy to use, whether you purchase it in liquid, foam, or aerosol form. You can apply it directly to the scalp and it doesn’t take long to get the hang of its application.
• You should use minoxidil twice a day, as recommended, to get the desired results. Applying it more than twice a day won’t bring better results; instead, you’ll waste product and have to buy a new bottle of it sooner than you should.
• If you quit using minoxidil you’ll stop seeing positive results for treating your hair loss. It won’t continue to work, and you’ll have to keep applying it now and into the future because it doesn’t deliver permanent results.
• Minoxidil’s results aren’t guaranteed but many men and women experience good results by using it consistently.
• Minoxidil is particularly effective for younger men and women experiencing the early stages of hair loss.
• Minoxidil treats hair loss on the top of the head and not a receding hairline.
• Minoxidil isn’t overly expensive but it’s not cheap, either. A three-month supply of minoxidil 5% can cost around $40. But it would be a lot more expensive if you could only purchase it by prescription.
• You can purchase minoxidil at most local drug stores, pharmacies, supermarkets, and online.
• Rogaine is a common brand name of minoxidil – and it’s available in the extra-strength 5% version  – but you can buy it in a variety of generic versions.
• Patience is truly a virtue when using minoxidil because you may not see results for up to four months, and even longer in some cases. Stay with your daily minoxidil routine during those times of seemingly no progress.

Some precautions for using minoxidil

As with any drug, you should take care when using minoxidil while also understanding its potential side effects.

1. Never use minoxidil if your scalp is swollen, infected, red, or irritated.
2. Only use minoxidil made for your gender.
3. Pregnant women shouldn’t use minoxidil without first seeking the advice of a doctor.
4. It’s best to dry your hair and scalp before applying minoxidil.
5. Only use minoxidil on your scalp unless you’re using the beard treatment.
6. Avoid getting minoxidil in your eyes, nose, or mouth.
7. While the risk of side effects is minimal when taking minoxidil you may experience lightheadedness, dizziness, a fast or irregular heartbeat, or numbness or tingling in the hands, face, or feet. If you experience any side effects, contact a doctor.

Nanoxidil: The minoxidil alternative

Nanoxidil is similar to Minoxidil but it uses nanoparticles instead of a topical solution. Nanoparticles are tiny particles that are only a few nanometers in diameter (one nanometer is one billionth of a meter). Nanoparticles are used in everything from sunscreen to cosmetics because they allow for better absorption through skin cells than traditional delivery methods.

Nanoxidil has been shown to be significantly more effective than Minoxidil at stimulating hair growth because it uses nanotechnology

While minoxidil’s roots extend to the 1950s, nanoxidil is a newcomer regarding hair loss and hair growth treatments.

Released in 2011 by Divine Skin Inc., nanoxidil represented an alternative to minoxidil and, its creators and others claimed, more effective treatment for hair loss.

The difference between nanoxidil and minoxidil lies in their chemical structure. Nanoxidil has a different molecular weight from minoxidil, and is responsible for opening the ion channels in the scalp. Its weight helps it to absorb more deeply into the scalp.

Another key difference between nanoxidil and minoxidil is that nanoxidil is useful for treating all areas of hair loss, not just hair loss on the scalp. That makes it a good option for men experiencing hair loss on their hairline.

Nanoxidil, unlike minoxidil, doesn’t have FDA approval, but it appears to have fewer side effects while producing positive results for men and women experiencing hair loss.

DS Laboratories, which includes nanoxidil in its Spectral DNC-N formula, says that 93% of people using nanoxidil saw a decrease in hair loss.

Spectral DNC-N

DS Labs’ Spectral DNC-N is the first topical hair-loss treatment that uses nanoxidil to fight hair loss.

Spectral DNC-N is said to work continuously over 12 hours – longer than most other treatments for baldness – and includes the DS Labs’ unique nanosome delivery system that delivers key ingredients more deeply into the skin.

The key compounds in Spectral DNC-N block dihydrotestosterone, a sex hormone that can lead to hair loss, while also encouraging hair growth at the hairline (as well as at the crown).

Spectral DNC-N also includes other helpful ingredients:

• Retinol – which improves the absorption of the product into the skin.
• Vitamin B2 – which helps treat a receding hairline.
• Adenosine – which is used for cell optimization.
• Copper peptides – which fight inflammation of the scalp.
• Herbal extracts – which help to improve the overall health and condition of the scalp.

Nanoxidil: The bottom line

While nanoxidil, and Spectral DNC-N, is effective in treating hair loss, there’s still not a lot of information or studies about it, including whether it may have long-term side effects.

But, again, its short-term side effects are less than those of minoxidil – if it has any side effects, at all.

• One of the advantages of using nanoxidil is that it treats the entire scalp area and not just the crown of the head.
• People can use nanoxidil to not only deal with significant hair loss, but also as a preventive measure to retain their current hair while, hopefully, holding off future hair loss problems.
• Nanoxidil is an excellent choice for women who, in many cases, are more sensitive to Minoxidil’s side effects (which is why women can only use a maximum minoxidil concentration of 2%).
• Indeed, one of the reasons nanoxidil has become popular is that it’s said to have few, if any, of the side effects experienced by minoxidil users.
• Nanoxidil includes other ingredients – such as aminexil, adenosine, and copper peptides – that improve hair growth. Minoxidil lotions, on the other hand, usually only contain minoxidil.
• You apply nanoxidil to the scalp in the form of a topical lotion.
• Recent studies show that nanoxidil is highly-effective in treating early female pattern hair loss without worry of increased scalp sensitivity.
• Nanoxidil boosts hair count and hair density while reducing scalp inflammation.

Aminexil and stemoxydine

Aminexil and stemoxydine are two other compounds that have a similar molecular structure as minoxidil. Both are the creations of L’Oreal, the cosmetic company.

Aminexil treats hair loss by improving blood circulation to the scalp. It also helps to prevent the hardening and scarring of hair shafts that may lead to hair loss. It’s often used in conjunction with minoxidil.

Stemoxydine is another chemical that works similarly to minoxidil. It stimulates hair cells stuck in the dormant phase to enter into the anagen phase to continue their growth. Stemoxydine comes in a liquid form and is suitable for men and women.

The stages of hair growth

Part of understanding how hair products such as minoxidil and nanoxidil work is understanding the hair growth cycle. Considering that there are around 100,000 hair follicles on the scalp (and a whopping 5 million on the body).

As each follicle manufactures new hair, it pushes out the hair shaft to create longer hair. But not all hair grows at the same time, and each strand is in a different part of the cycle, which consists of four phases:

1. Anagen

The anagen phase is when hair is growing and represents the first stage of the cycle. During this phase, the cells of hair bulbs divide rapidly and create new hair growth. Studies show that up to 90% of hair follicles are in the anagen phase at any given time.

The anagen phase doesn’t pass quickly, mind you, but lasts between two and seven years. The length of the phase determines maximum hair length; hence, people with long hair have a longer anagen phase than many others.

Many factors determine the length of each individual’s anagen phase, including genetics, age, overall health, and lifestyle factors such as nutrition.

2. Catagen

Catagen is the transitional phase of the hair cycle and occurs after the anagen (growth) phase. It’s a short transitional phase that lasts two to three weeks and one in which hair stops growing and detaches itself from the blood supply.

3. Telogen

The telogen phase is one of “hibernation” in which the existing hair rests while new hair begins to grow beneath it slowly. This phase lasts for three months and up to 15% of all hair is in it at any one time.

4. Exogen

The final phase of the hair growth cycle is exogen in which hair sheds. Keep in mind that every hair on your head sheds eventually and most people lose 50 to 100 hairs each day.

Once hair sheds, the follicles transition back to the anagen phase where the cycle begins again.

It’s important to remember that, as mentioned, not every hair follicle is in the same phase at the same time. That’s a good thing considering that it keeps hair from shedding all at once.

Conclusion

Minoxidil and nanoxidil are different compounds that help treat hair loss and stimulate hair growth.

Nanoxidil, the newer of the two, produces similar results as minoxidil (if not better) and doesn’t have the same side effects – although it’s too early to tell if it has long-term side effects.

Is one better than the other? That’s a topic of much debate and there really isn’t a conclusive answer. What’s clear is that both products can decrease hair loss and help users to develop a thicker, fuller head of hair.

Do you use minoxidil or nanoxidil? If so, what are the results? As always, we’d love to hear from you.

While many men take finasteride to fight male pattern baldness, there’s also a certain stigma attached to it – namely, it can cause some unwanted side effects. How to reduce the effects of finasteride, which we’ll cover in this post, is a big deal.

After all, among those side effects is erectile dysfunction, i.e., once you start taking finasteride, your love muscle will become as limp as an overcooked spaghetti noodle.

No man wants that, right?

But there’s a lot of myth surrounding finasteride and its not-so-pleasant effects. Yes, you may find – finally – a solution for your male pattern baldness – but it’s going to come at a cost.

On the other hand, how true are the “horror” stories, i.e., the stories of men at full limp in the bedroom when a more erect tool is needed?

We hope to dispel some of the finasteride myths, or at least ease your anxiety about using it to treat your thinning hair, but we’ll also discuss the very real, potential side effects that may or may not occur.

How common are finasteride’s side effects?

The list of finasteride’s potential side effects isn’t particularly alarming if you eliminate the sexual side of things. Finasteride users may experience headaches, slight swelling in the hands and feet, a runny nose, or even some dizziness.

Then again, many medications have similar side effects, and, well, possibly putting up with a slightly runny nose seems like a fair trade-off for a revitalized head of hair that’s no longer fighting a losing battle against the dreaded MPB.

But the Big 3 of finasteride’s side effects – erectile dysfunction, a lowered libido, and ejaculatory disorders – are enough to send some men into a panic.

Keep in mind that finasteride isn’t just used to treat hair loss but also to treat an enlarged prostate – or, more specifically, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Men who suffer from BPH have difficulty urinating and often need to pee multiple times during the night.

Finasteride helps decrease BPH symptoms while reducing the chances of needing to have prostate surgery. So, considering that finasteride resolves issues associated with a man’s “parts,” it’s not surprising that it can cause some other problems down there.

But back to the original question: how common are finasteride’s side effects?

The best answer is that the side effects, particularly those involving erections and libido, aren’t that common at all.

There’s plenty of science to back up that conclusion, including a 2012 study that sexual side effects such as ED and decreased libido occurred in less than 2% of all men taking the drug.

That same study referred to previous studies that “showed that the incidence of these side effects with finasteride therapy was generally comparable to that observed with the treatment of a placebo.”

Here’s the other thing: the typical dose of finasteride used to treat hair loss (1 mg) is small enough that side effects are far less likely to happen than many men believe.

Finasteride: Just the Facts

Finasteride fights hair loss by reducing the action of the enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is widely believed to cause hair loss in some men.

While finasteride can increase the number of scalp hair, it won’t increase the amount of hair on your body.

Finasteride does increase estrogen levels in males by up to 15%, which contributes to a potential lowered libido and ED.

Side effects are the major reason why some people do not want to try Propecia, or any other pill that is used to fight hair loss.

The Hype Machine and How Myths Evolve

Finasteride’s side effects came under public scrutiny over 20 years ago as it continued to help many, many men deal with their thinning hair and MPB.

While it’s no surprise that publicity about a drug that may negatively impact a man’s sex life can set off a cacophony of alarms, the media and other sources seemed to overlook one simple fact: those side effects aren’t very widespread.

Instead, the word finasteride (or Propecia, as it’s commonly known) suddenly became the Libido Killing Drug that could force many sexually-active men to the sidelines. Sure, they might develop a beautiful head of hair, but problems in the bedroom left them a bit limp.

Let’s not forget the psychological effects, either. Just the thought of taking a drug that could mess with their erection was enough for some men to, well, not get an erection.

In other words, give them a placebo that they think is finasteride, and they may mind-screw themselves into not getting it up. Hell, it happens.

As one doctor put it, “…when they did all the trials before this subject was tainted by the media or medical-legal incentives – the problem of side effects didn’t exist. There were transient side effects, but even the percentage of these transient side effects was small.”

The bottom line is that you shouldn’t believe everything you read or hear. That’s not to say there isn’t a possibility of side effects when taking finasteride, but evidence suggests that the chances of experiencing them are right around slim-to-none.

How long do Propecia side effects last after stopping?

First, finasteride is only effective as long as you’re taking it. Once you stop taking it, the amount of medication in your body slowly declines, until it’s completely gone with several days.

Without finasteride in your body, there’s no blocking the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme which, in turn, means that your body will again convert a small amount of testosterone into DHT and cause thinning of the hair on your scalp.

If your long-term goal is to prevent hair loss, however, you’ll probably need to take it for years.

If you’re worried about finasteride side effects after stopping its use, the data is a bit mixed. For most men, Propecia’s side effects cease once they stopping take it – including ED and libido side effects.

Moreover, side effects sometimes subside as treatment continues and the body adjusts to the medication.

But there is some evidence that there’s a small risk of Propecia’s sexual side effects continuing after the patient stops taking it.

In 2012, the FDA changed the labeling on Propecia to say that adverse reactions like ED and libido disorders may continue after the treatment has ended.

While it’s not fully understood whether finasteride can lead to permanent sexual side effects, there seems to be a very minimal chance that it could happen.

Physicians, meanwhile, are encouraged to inform patients about the potential for long-term consequences.

What Are Some Other Finasteride Side Effects?

As mentioned, you may experience some other side effects while taking finasteride, such as dizziness or lightheadedness when getting up from a sitting or lying position, cold sweats, and chills.

Less common side effects – besides ED and libido issues – may include itchy skin, bloating or swelling of the face, arms, hands, lower legs and feet, hives, tingling of the hands or feet, or even unusual weight gain and loss.

The key phrase here is “may experience,” because most Propecia users experience few, if any, side effects, while a very small percentage of men (under 2%, as mentioned) experience sexual side effects.

And the side effects may go away as your body adjusts to the medication. Consult your doctor if you should experience side effects of any kind, however.

How to reduce side effects of finasteride using these 7 methods (A simple, illustrated guide)

1. Decreasing Estrogen (Estradiol)

First things, first: the level of estrogen in a man’s body increases by as much as 15% when taking Propecia, and an increase of estrogen can mean a decrease in your libido.

It also can increase a man’s chances for developing gynecomastia – which is an abnormal enlargement of the breasts (think man boobs, but not the kind caused by excess weight and a flabby chest).

When we eliminate DHT in our bodies, estrogen becomes more potent, creating hormonal imbalances which lead to erectile dysfunction, dry skin, weight gain, and even depression.

On the flip side, however, decreasing estrogen too much can have detrimental effects. The good news is that there are natural ways to reduce estrogen levels without going overboard:

• Aromatase and Aromatase Inhibitors

Aromatase is the enzyme responsible for synthesizing estrogen.

Aromatase inhibitors are drugs used to treat gynecomastia in men, as well as ovarian and breast cancer in postmenopausal women, and these work by preventing testosterone from converting to estradiol.

More good news: there are many natural sources of aromatase inhibitors, including:

• Cruciferous vegetables – Examples of cruciferous vegetables include broccoli, Brussel sprouts, bok choy, cabbage, cauliflower, garden cress, kale, and other similar green, leafy vegetables. Cruciferous vegetables contain Diindolylmethane (DIM), a compound that regulates estradiol.
• Zinc – Zinc plays several roles in the body’s functioning, including that it allows the body to create testosterone, helps support immune function, and aids in protein production. High doses of zinc are used as an aromatase inhibitor, and it’s also an aphrodisiac.
• Grapeseed extract – Grapeseed extract has countless benefits and also serves as a potent aromatase inhibitor. It’s a derivative from whole grape seeds.
• Lose weight – You can lower your estrogen while increasing your testosterone levels by losing weight.

2. Boosting Libido, Increasing Semen Volume, and Improving Erectile Function

To summarize, the three most commonly reported Propecia side effects are lowered libido, erectile dysfunction, and ejaculatory disorders. Be aware, however, that not all of them may be caused by finasteride in every case.

Men may encounter these kinds of conditions at several points in their life, and sexual dysfunction also can be the result of overuse of pornography, a stressful and unhealthy lifestyle, poor diet, and the natural effects of aging.

Fortunately, there are many ways to improve sexual disorders naturally:

• Exercise & stress relief – Proper fitness, cardiovascular health, playing sports, and Kegel exercises can significantly boost your sexual health. Most of us also are aware of the negative impact excess stress has on our lives, including on our sexual performance. Walking, taking time off, meditation – all are great ways to relieve stress. Simple relaxation can make all the difference.
• Male libido supplements – Supplements such as ginseng, maca, Muira puama, and tribulis terristris help to improve your libido and have scientific evidence to back them up.

Among other common testosterone boosters is vitamin D. There’s a strong link between vitamin D deficiency and low testosterone levels, as well with low sperm quality.

An easy way to get more vitamin D is through increased sun exposure because it’s a fat-soluble vitamin that’s produced in the skin when exposed to sunlight.

• Ginger, a common household spice, also may help boost testosterone levels, according to various studies.
• Aphrodisiac foods – Foods such as honey, bananas, chocolate, avocado, chili peppers, oysters (which are high in zinc), arugula, pomegranate, and watermelon help boost your libido and help you perform better in bed.

3. Increasing Your Nitric Oxide Levels

Consider this: nitric oxide is the basis of Viagra, that little blue pill that can raise your love life literally and figuratively.

While nitric oxide can have a positive effect on your erectile function, you also can develop a tolerance for it – and become dependent on it. Your best bet, especially when you’re young, is to raise your nitric levels naturally in the following ways:

• Foods with high nitrate content – Spinach, beets, lettuce, arugula, dark chocolate, and carrots increase the levels of nitric oxide in your body.
• Nitric oxide supplements – Citrulline, a top supplement for erectile function, is an excellent nitric oxide supplement, while other supplements include vitamin C, CoQ10, Ginseng, and Pycnogenol – which all help to increase or preserve the levels of nitric oxide in your system.
• Pomegranate juice – Pomegranate juice is another powerful switch-on for your erectile function, but avoid using if it if you’re taking Viagra. Why? Because you’ll get more than you bargained for – an erection that won’t go away – and you’ll have to take a hard trip to the doctor.

4. ED Pills

Viagra, Cialis, Levitra – all are erectile dysfunction medications commonly used today, and millions of men enjoy the positive effects they have on their love lives.

Sildenafil, the active ingredient in Viagra, helps you get an erection when the time is right and should be taken approximately one hour before sexual activity (you’ll start to notice results within 30 to 60 minutes after taking it).

For Hims, a San Francisco-based company devoted to men’s wellness, offers a Sildenafil pill that helps you get it up and keep it up when things move to the bedroom, or wherever else the mood may strike.

5. Reduce the Dose

It only makes sense: lower the dose of a medication, including finasteride, and you decrease the chances of side effects. Some finasteride users say that lowering their dose from 1 mg to 0.2 mg reduced or eliminated the drug’s side effects.

But it’s not only finasteride users who say that lowering the dose lessens the side effects.

The National Center for Biotechnology Information also confirms that dropping down to a 0.2 mg dose reduces or eliminates side effects while remaining useful for fighting male pattern baldness.

Additional studies show that a 0.2 mg dose is about 80% as effective for treating hair loss as 1 mg.

Even lowering the dose to 0.5 mg reduces your chances of experiencing finasteride side effects. DHT is still inhibited at the 0.5 doses, although not as effectively as 1 mg.

6. Reducing How Often You Take It

The recommended dosage for finasteride is 1 mg tablet per day, but some studies show that taking the same dose every other day has similar effectiveness for treating hair loss. While the research is limited, taking finasteride every other day may reduce side effects.

It’s possible that your doctor prescribed a dosage that’s higher than what you need, especially if they didn’t know your full medical history when they wrote the prescription. Try talking to your doctor about reducing your dosage. This could help reduce side effects while still allowing the drug to be effective.

7. Using Topical Finasteride

While finasteride can be extremely effective at treating male pattern baldness, it can also have some unpleasant and sometimes even dangerous side effects. These side effects include:

• loss of libido

• erectile dysfunction

• depression and other mood issues

• breast pain and enlargement

Finasteride also is available in a topical form, and studies show that it’s effective in fighting MPB and decreases the likelihood of experiencing side effects.

While finasteride may still find its way to your bloodstream with the topical version, it’s a lesser amount, which leads to reduced side effects.

The bad news? Topical finasteride isn’t available in the United States.

But wait … is more help on the way?

Propecia is just one of several options available for fighting hair loss, but it’s similar to the others in that it treats the symptoms of hair loss and requires ongoing use for it to remain effective, but it’s not as if scientists are sitting on their behinds on the sidelines.

Researchers continue to target the causes of hair loss, which may eventually lead to hair loss treatments that yield few if any, side effects.

Scientists at the University of Texas identified a protein called KROX20 that instructs cells on the skin to become hair. The hair cells then produce a protein called stem cell factor (SCF) that plays a crucial role in hair pigmentation.

Dr. Lu Le, an associate professor of dermatology at UT’s Southwestern Medical Center, said, “With this knowledge, we hope in the future to create a topical compound or to safely deliver the necessary gene to hair follicles to correct these cosmetic problems.”

Meanwhile, a study at the University of Edinburgh in the United Kingdom discovered 287 genetic regions that play a part in male pattern baldness. Interestingly, many of the genetic signals came from the X chromosome, which men inherit from their mothers.

The University of Edinburgh research could not only help predict a male’s likelihood of experiencing excessive hair loss but also help in the development of new drugs to treat baldness.

Other ongoing research includes examining the role of faulty immune cells in the development of alopecia areata, a different kind of hair loss.

Conclusion

Many men who suffer from male pattern baldness seek ways to stop its progression while promoting healthy hair growth. Finasteride is one tool they can use but may come with side effects, albeit not for every man.

Take heart if you’re concerned about taking finasteride because of potential side effects, however, because there are ways to lessen or even prevent those effects from happening.

Also, keep in mind that issues such as lower libido and erectile dysfunction may not be Propecia side effects at all but related to other physical and psychological problems.

Do you take finasteride? If so, have you experienced any side effects? As always, we’d leave to hear from you.

If you’ve noticed the early signs of hair loss, you’re not alone. In fact, around 25% of men will experience some form of male pattern baldness before turning 30, and by the time we hit 80, that figure jumps to a staggering 80%. It’s something nearly every man deals with at some point in life. The good news? There are options out there to slow down, prevent, and even reverse hair loss.

But here’s the problem: There are a ton of products on the market that promise to regrow hair, but not all of them are legit. Trust me, I’ve tried a lot of them. Some products are pure snake oil, while others have actual science backing them up.

That’s why I’m here—to help you sift through all the noise and find treatments that genuinely work. Whether you’re just starting to notice your hair thinning or have been dealing with it for a while, I’ve gathered the best, evidence-based solutions for male pattern baldness (also known as androgenetic alopecia, or AGA).

Let’s dive into the options that can slow down, stop, or even reverse hair loss.

12 Best Hair Loss Treatments for Men

From personal experience and research, I’ve found a range of treatments that target male pattern baldness. The key is choosing evidence-backed options. I’ve listed the most effective treatments at the top and included some alternative and complementary therapies as well.

1. Finasteride (Brand names: Propecia, Hims)

Finasteride is one of the heavy hitters when it comes to treating male pattern baldness. Originally designed to treat benign prostate hyperplasia, it’s now FDA-approved for hair loss, and let me tell you, it works.

How it works:
Finasteride blocks the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme, which is responsible for converting testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is the main culprit behind hair loss in men genetically predisposed to male pattern baldness. What finasteride does is inhibit around 70% of serum DHT, which helps slow the miniaturization of hair follicles, preventing hair from thinning and eventually falling out.

AGA is caused by a shortening of the hair growth cycle (also called the anagen phase), which leads to thinner, weaker hair. Finasteride can slow this process and, in some cases, even reverse it by helping hair follicles regrow thicker, terminal hair.

My experience:
After a few months on finasteride, I noticed that my hair loss slowed down significantly. For some users, results come as early as three months, but it can take up to a year to see major improvements. Be patient—this stuff works over time. One thing to keep in mind is that some initial shedding can happen as weaker hairs fall out to make way for stronger growth.

How to get it:
You’ll need a prescription for finasteride, and it’s best to consult your doctor first. However, you can also get it through reliable online sources like Hims, which offers a convenient, discreet way to get your treatment.

Dosage:
It’s as simple as taking a 1mg pill once a day. Don’t go overboard—taking more won’t increase its effectiveness and may lead to side effects.

What to expect:
For most guys, finasteride stops hair loss almost immediately, with new growth appearing after a few months. Just remember, even slowing down hair loss is a huge win when it comes to AGA.

Pros:

• The most effective, FDA-approved solution for hair loss.
• Simple, once-a-day pill.

Cons:

• Around 3% of users report side effects like reduced libido or erectile dysfunction.
• Other mild side effects like dizziness or nasal congestion can occur but tend to fade with continued use.

Bottom Line:
If you’re serious about tackling hair loss, finasteride is one of the best tools you can use. Yes, there are some risks, but for most men, the benefits far outweigh the downsides. Just stay in touch with your doctor, especially if you notice any side effects.

2. Minoxidil

Minoxidil is another FDA-approved treatment, but unlike finasteride, it works a bit differently. Originally developed to treat high blood pressure, researchers found that one of minoxidil’s “side effects” was hair growth.

How it works:
Minoxidil is a topical solution or foam that’s applied directly to the scalp. It works by widening the blood vessels in your scalp, which increases the flow of blood and nutrients to hair follicles. This encourages the hair to stay in the anagen (growth) phase longer, leading to thicker hair.

My experience:
I’ve used minoxidil on and off for a few years, and it’s great for filling in thinning areas. It’s easy to apply—just rub the foam or liquid on your scalp twice a day. You might not see results for a few months, but when you do, it’s worth it. It won’t stop hair loss on its own, but it works great when combined with finasteride.

How to use:
Apply about 1 ml of the solution or half a cap of foam to the thinning areas of your scalp, morning and night. Let it dry before applying any styling products.

Pros:

• Easy to apply.
• Helps with regrowth in thinning areas.

Cons:

• Takes a few months to see results.
• Can cause itching or irritation in some users.

Bottom Line:
Minoxidil is an excellent addition to your hair-loss-fighting arsenal, especially if you’re targeting specific thinning areas. It works well when combined with other treatments like finasteride.

3. Nanoxidil

If you’ve tried minoxidil but experienced some side effects, or just didn’t get the results you were hoping for, nanoxidil is worth checking out. It’s a newer alternative to minoxidil, and from my experience, it feels like a next-gen solution. Nanoxidil has a similar structure but a lower molecular weight, meaning it absorbs into the scalp more efficiently.

How it works:

Nanoxidil not only stimulates hair growth like minoxidil, but it also opens ion channels within hair follicles to speed up the growth process. What I really like about Spectral.DNC-N (the flagship product from DS Laboratories) is its nanosome delivery system. This helps active ingredients penetrate deeper into the scalp and stay active for longer.

The formula includes several ingredients that boost hair growth and overall scalp health, such as:

• Myristoyl pentapeptide-17 (promotes hair growth)
• Adenosine (boosts follicle health)
• Piroctone olamine (anti-fungal, helps with scalp health)
• Retinol and caffeine (stimulates growth and improves absorption)

While nanoxidil helps stimulate new hair growth, it also does a decent job inhibiting DHT, although not as effectively as finasteride. However, what’s really nice is that Spectral.DNC-N skips out on propylene glycol, which caused irritation for me when I tried minoxidil.

How to use it:

You’ll want to apply 6 sprays twice a day to clean, dry hair. It’s a leave-in treatment, so you don’t need to wash it out—just spray, rub it in, and you’re good to go.

What to expect:

Give it about 3-6 months for noticeable results. I started seeing some positive changes around the 4-month mark, but as with all hair loss treatments, patience is key.

Pros:

• Works through multiple mechanisms to promote hair growth
• Fewer side effects than minoxidil
• No greasy feel or irritation from propylene glycol

Cons:

• Relatively new on the market, so long-term studies are still needed
• Not quite as powerful as a finasteride and minoxidil combo

Bottom Line:

Nanoxidil, especially in the form of Spectral.DNC-N, is a strong option if you’ve had issues with minoxidil or finasteride. It’s a bit of a dark horse in the hair-loss world, but it’s growing in popularity because of its efficiency and minimal side effects.

4. Dutasteride (Brand name: Avodart)

Now, dutasteride is a bit of a game-changer. While it’s still relatively new in the hair-loss world compared to finasteride, it might actually be more potent. If you’re looking for something even more powerful than finasteride, dutasteride could be your answer.

How it works:

Like finasteride, dutasteride blocks DHT, but it’s more aggressive. Dutasteride blocks both types of 5-alpha-reductase enzymes (type I and II), which means it reduces 99% of DHT production—compared to finasteride’s 70% reduction. That’s huge if you’re dealing with advanced hair loss.

My experience:

I’ve been using dutasteride for almost a year now, and while it’s a bit slower to show results, the effect is noticeable over time. My hair loss has slowed dramatically, and I’ve even seen some regrowth in areas that were looking pretty sparse. What’s more, I haven’t had any significant side effects.

How to use it:

It’s a prescription-only medication, so you’ll need to talk to your doctor about getting started. Dutasteride comes in a 0.5mg pill that you take once daily, just like finasteride.

What to expect:

This is a slow burner—it can take up to 12 months to see full results, and some initial shedding is normal. But if you stick with it, dutasteride has the potential to really make a difference.

Pros:

• Blocks 99% of DHT (more effective than finasteride)
• May have fewer sexual side effects than finasteride
• Powerful option for more advanced hair loss

Cons:

• Takes longer to show results (up to 12 months)
• Prescription required

Bottom Line:

Dutasteride is a promising solution if you’ve tried finasteride and need something stronger. It’s highly effective at reducing DHT, making it one of the best options for fighting advanced hair loss, though you’ll need to be patient while waiting for results.

5. Topical Finasteride (Brand name: Formula 82F)

If you’re hesitant about taking oral finasteride due to the potential side effects, topical finasteride could be a solid alternative. This is a topical solution that combines finasteride and minoxidil into one formula for double the effectiveness without as many risks.

How it works:

Topical finasteride works similarly to the oral version, blocking DHT directly in the scalp. The added bonus here is that it may reduce the risk of sexual side effects that sometimes come with the oral pill, while still delivering the benefits of DHT reduction. Formula 82F also contains 5% minoxidil, making it a convenient two-in-one treatment.

My experience:

I’ve tried this one as a way to lessen the potential systemic side effects of oral finasteride. So far, I’ve been happy with the results—thicker hair with less noticeable shedding. It’s also easier to apply since it’s a topical spray, and it combines the two most effective hair-loss treatments in one bottle.

How to use it:

Apply 30 drops twice a day to your scalp, focusing on thinning areas. Make sure to give it at least 3 hours to set, so don’t shower, swim, or sweat heavily right after applying it.

What to expect:

Results can show up as early as 10 weeks, but the real benefits will become visible after 6-12 months of consistent use.

Pros:

• Combines the benefits of finasteride and minoxidil in one treatment
• Reduced risk of sexual side effects compared to oral finasteride
• Easy to apply and mess-free

Cons:

• Still carries some risk of side effects, although reduced
• You’ll need to keep your scalp dry for hours after application

Bottom Line:

Topical finasteride, especially when combined with minoxidil, is a great option if you’re worried about the side effects of the oral version. It’s convenient and effective, offering a good balance between reducing hair loss and avoiding potential downsides.

6. Ketoconazole Shampoo with Hair Thickening and Fortifying Compounds

When it comes to complementary treatments for hair loss, Revita’s Ketoconazole Shampoo is one I’ve found to be really effective, especially when paired with other more potent treatments like minoxidil or finasteride. If you’re looking for a way to keep your hair thick and healthy while managing dandruff or scalp irritation, this is a great option.

How it works:

Originally designed to treat seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff, ketoconazole shampoos like Revita have proven to have surprising benefits for hair health. This shampoo works by reducing scalp inflammation—something that’s becoming increasingly recognized as a contributing factor to androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Plus, ketoconazole has DHT-blocking properties, which further helps with hair loss prevention.

Revita’s formula is boosted with additional ingredients that promote hair health:

• Caffeine, known to block DHT and stimulate hair growth
• Biotin, which supports healthy follicles, though it’s most beneficial if your hair loss is due to a biotin deficiency

For me, one of the most noticeable benefits was how much better my scalp felt. It reduced any itchiness and redness I was experiencing, and my hair looked and felt thicker after a few months of use.

How to use it:

Use this shampoo 5 times a week. Apply it to wet hair and scalp, massage it in for a couple of minutes, and then rinse thoroughly. For best results, pair it with Revita’s conditioner to really boost the benefits.

What to expect:

You’ll need to use it consistently for at least 3 months before you start seeing noticeable results. Patience is key here, but once it kicks in, you’ll likely see your hair looking and feeling healthier.

Pros:

• Excellent complementary treatment for those using minoxidil or finasteride
• Reduces side effects like redness and itchiness that other treatments can cause
• Includes extra compounds for hair and scalp health

Cons:

• It’s best used in combination with other treatments if you’re experiencing moderate to advanced hair loss
• Won’t be enough as a stand-alone treatment for severe hair loss

Bottom Line:

Revita’s Ketoconazole Shampoo is a solid option if you’re looking for an extra boost to your hair health regimen. It’s perfect for those who want to maintain hair thickness and scalp health while dealing with early-stage hair loss or as an add-on to more aggressive treatments like minoxidil or finasteride.

7. Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) Helmets/Hats

I know this one might sound like something out of a sci-fi movie, but Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) is a legitimate, evidence-backed treatment for hair loss. Devices like the iRestore Hair Growth System use red light therapy to stimulate hair follicles and promote regrowth. I’ve tried it, and while it takes a bit more commitment, it can definitely make a difference when used consistently.

How it works:

LLLT uses 650 nm red light to stimulate the scalp and hair follicles, improving blood flow and triggering the hair follicles to shift from the telogen (resting) phase to the anagen (growth) phase. Research shows that laser therapy can help promote thicker, longer, and more pigmented hair.

Although scientists are still working out exactly how it works, theories suggest that LLLT boosts cell metabolism and stimulates epidermal stem cells, which kickstarts the regrowth process.

How to use it:

Use the iRestore Hair Growth System for 25 minutes every other day. Just put the helmet on and go about your day while the lasers work their magic. It’s painless, and you can even do it while watching TV or reading.

What to expect:

It takes about 3-6 months to see results, but the company offers a 6-month money-back guarantee if you don’t notice any improvement, so it’s worth giving it a shot.

Pros:

• Can be combined with other treatments like finasteride and minoxidil
• Painless, non-invasive, and easy to use
• Clinically proven to stimulate hair growth

Cons:

• Expensive
• Requires regular use over a long period for results
• May not work for everyone

Bottom Line:

If you’re willing to invest the time and money, the iRestore Hair Growth System is a great non-invasive option to add to your hair loss regimen. It works well alongside other treatments and is backed by solid science, making it worth a try for those looking for additional support in their hair restoration journey.

8. Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

Another effective Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) device worth considering is the HairMax LaserComb. While similar to the iRestore system in its goal to stimulate hair follicles, it stands out with its comb design, which allows the lasers to directly reach the scalp by parting the hair.

How it works:

The HairMax LaserComb utilizes lasers, not LED lights, which might provide better results. By parting the hair with its comb teeth, it allows the light to penetrate directly to the follicles, cutting down on treatment time. Like other LLLT devices, the HairMax comb stimulates hair growth by improving cellular metabolism and promoting the shift from the telogen (resting) phase to the anagen (growth) phase.

How to use it:

Use the comb by slowly moving it through your hair, starting at your hairline. The comb will beep every 4 seconds to signal when to move it back half an inch, ensuring you cover the entire scalp. Treatment times range between 8 to 11 minutes, depending on the model you choose.

What to expect:

HairMax recommends using the device 3 times a week. Expect results within 6 to 12 months, as it takes time for the follicles to respond to treatment.

Pros:

• Comb teeth part the hair, allowing direct light contact with the scalp.
• Lasers (instead of LEDs) may make the treatment more effective.
• Shorter treatment times compared to helmet systems.
• Portable and easy to use compared to helmet or cap-based systems.

Cons:

• Requires manual combing for up to 11 minutes, which some might find tedious.
• As with other LLLT devices, it cannot be combined with treatments that increase photosensitivity (e.g., retinol or products with vitamin A).
• Expensive but less so than helmet systems.

Bottom Line:

If you prefer a more hands-on approach and are looking for a laser-based LLLT system, the HairMax LaserComb could be a great alternative to helmet-style devices like iRestore. The comb teeth ensure better light penetration and shorter treatment times, though it does require more manual effort.

9. Topical Spironolactone

If you’re looking for a DHT-blocker with fewer systemic side effects than finasteride, spironolactone might be worth considering, especially in topical form.

How it works:

Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic primarily used to treat high blood pressure and fluid retention, but it also acts as a DHT inhibitor. When used topically, it can help block DHT at the follicle level without affecting the entire body’s hormone levels, making it a great option for men who have concerns about the side effects of oral DHT blockers like finasteride.

How to use it:

Apply a small amount of topical spironolactone to the affected areas of the scalp twice a day. The goal is to apply it directly to the base of the hair to minimize DHT exposure to the follicles.

What to expect:

Results typically take about 3 months to start showing, but full results may take up to a year.

Pros:

• Lower risk of systemic side effects compared to oral finasteride.
• Can be combined with other treatments like minoxidil for enhanced effects.
• An alternative for those who didn’t respond well to finasteride.

Cons:

• Less effective than finasteride.
• Must be applied topically, which might be inconvenient for some.
• Oral spironolactone is not recommended for men due to feminizing side effects.

Bottom Line:

Topical spironolactone is a solid alternative for men who want to avoid the systemic effects of oral DHT blockers. While it may not be as potent as finasteride, it offers a safer option with fewer potential side effects when used correctly.

10. Hair Transplant

For those experiencing more advanced hair loss, hair transplantation is the most effective solution. The FUE SMARTGRAFT method offers a minimally-invasive, high-precision approach to restoring your hairline and scalp coverage.

How it works:

Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) is a technique in which individual hair follicles are extracted from a donor area (usually the back of the head) and transplanted into balding areas. The SMARTGRAFT device improves this process by providing precision extraction with minimal scarring and faster recovery. This cutting-edge technology ensures that each follicle is carefully preserved for maximum survival during transplantation.

What to expect:

You can expect to see immediate results, though it takes 7-10 days for full recovery. The hair will initially shed after a few weeks, but new growth will start appearing after 3-4 months. Full results are typically visible after about 12 months.

Pros:

• Immediate results with minimal scarring and downtime.
• Can restore a full hairline and significantly improve hair density.
• Suitable for those with advanced hair loss.

Cons:

• Expensive, with costs ranging from $8,000 to $20,000.
• The success of the transplant relies heavily on the expertise of the surgeon.

Bottom Line:

If you have significant hair loss and are looking for a permanent solution, a SMARTGRAFT FUE transplant is the gold standard. With minimal downtime and scarring, it’s a high-tech solution that provides natural-looking results.

11. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

PRP therapy is another advanced treatment option for hair loss that uses your body’s own platelets and growth factors to stimulate hair regrowth.

How it works:

PRP involves drawing a small amount of your blood, spinning it in a centrifuge to separate the platelets and growth factors, and injecting them into the scalp. These platelets and growth factors promote healing and the regeneration of hair follicles, which can stimulate new hair growth.

How to use it:

PRP treatments are performed by a professional in a clinical setting. The procedure takes about an hour, and there’s no downtime, so you can go back to your daily activities immediately.

What to expect:

Results can appear within 3-6 months, and follow-up treatments may be required to maintain the benefits.

Pros:

• Non-invasive and uses your body’s natural growth factors.
• Can be combined with other treatments like hair transplants or LLLT.
• Minimal risk since it uses your own blood.

Cons:

• Expensive, with costs ranging from $2,600 to $5,900.
• Results vary depending on the individual’s response to treatment.

Bottom Line:

PRP therapy is a safe and effective option for those looking to boost hair growth naturally. It works well as a stand-alone treatment or as an adjunct to other therapies like transplants or LLLT.

12. Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP)

Let’s talk about Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP), a cosmetic procedure that doesn’t directly treat hair loss but can dramatically improve the appearance of a fuller head of hair. If you’re not keen on surgical or medicinal solutions, SMP might be a solid alternative.

How it works:

SMP involves injecting tiny, tattoo-like dots of pigment into the scalp to mimic the appearance of hair follicles. These dots are placed in varying shades of black to create a subtle shadow effect, making the scalp look fuller and camouflaging thinning or bald spots. Think of it as pointillism on your scalp, giving the illusion of a shaved or closely buzzed head.

The ink used in SMP is semi-permanent, meaning touch-ups are required roughly every 8 years to maintain the look. However, unlike tattoo ink, the pigment is injected at a shallower depth, so the results look more natural and less like a traditional tattoo.

How to get it:

Finding an experienced SMP practitioner is essential. Prices can vary, but you should expect to pay between $400 to $1,000 per session. Typically, several sessions are needed for optimal results.

How to use it:

This isn’t a treatment you perform yourself—it’s done by a trained professional. After the sessions, you’ll need to follow specific aftercare instructions, but you can return to normal activities relatively quickly.

What to expect:

The effects are immediate, and once completed, your scalp will have the appearance of fuller hair. The results will last for years, with occasional touch-ups required.

Pros:

• Immediate results with no downtime.
• Lasts for several years before needing touch-ups.
• Provides a non-invasive, cost-effective solution for those uncomfortable with other treatments.

Cons:

• Does not address the underlying cause of hair loss.
• Risk of infection or allergic reaction to the ink.
• Finding a reputable practitioner can be challenging due to lack of regulation.

Bottom Line:

SMP is ideal for those who want the appearance of a fuller head of hair without undergoing surgery or committing to daily topical treatments. It’s a purely cosmetic procedure, but it can help boost confidence by camouflaging thinning areas effectively.

How We Chose These Products

When it comes to hair loss treatments, science is the guiding principle. Since androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a widespread condition, there are countless products claiming to treat it, but not all live up to the hype. We took a thorough, evidence-based approach in choosing the treatments on this list.

We focused on treatments that have undergone rigorous clinical trials and are backed by solid research. This includes ensuring the correct concentrations of active ingredients are used, that the treatment methods have been proven effective in studies, and that side effects are well-documented.

When newer treatments with fewer studies were considered, we ensured that the research was conducted properly, with solid design, control groups, and consistent results showing reduction in hair follicle miniaturization or even reversal of the process. We also took into account patient satisfaction and outcomes, ensuring these treatments are not only safe but effective in real-world scenarios.

The only exception to our scientific approach is Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP), as it is purely cosmetic and does not address the root cause of hair loss. However, it’s still a viable option for those seeking aesthetic improvement.

What’s on the Horizon? – Potential Future Treatments

Hair loss research is always evolving, with new treatments currently in the research and development pipeline. Although some exciting products are on the horizon, you shouldn’t wait for these new treatments to come out to start addressing your hair loss. Preventing further loss is always easier than reversing it.

Let’s look at a few promising treatments that are in advanced stages of development:

RHC-01(s) & (r)

These two treatments are similar, with RHC-01(s) being developed by Shiseido in Asia, based on RepliCel Life Sciences technology. They aim to transplant healthy cells from unaffected areas of the scalp to regions affected by AGA, using cellular and genetic traits to slow or stop hair loss. It’s still in the research phase, but the concept holds a lot of promise.

Hair Stimulating Complex

Developed by Histogen, this stem cell treatment utilizes cells grown in a simulated embryonic environment to create a rich mix of growth factors such as KGF and follistatin, which are critical for triggering hair follicle growth. It’s another injectable treatment with a lot of potential for the future.

Follica

This interesting approach uses a wounding device to create small disruptions on the scalp, which can stimulate new hair follicles to form. The process is being studied in combination with minoxidil, and the hope is that it can enhance the effectiveness of existing hair growth treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do hair loss treatments actually work?

Yes, they do! If you’ve skipped straight to this FAQ section, let me assure you that hair loss treatments can indeed be effective. Throughout the article, I’ve shared evidence-backed research showing that many common ingredients and therapies can help reduce hair loss and even promote regrowth. Of course, not every product on the market lives up to its claims, but many treatments offer real solutions. You don’t have to live with a receding hairline if you’re ready to take action—there are proven ways to fight back!

Can hair grow back after it’s started thinning?

Yes, it can. Hair regrowth is possible, especially if you start treatment early. If your hair loss is in the initial stages, there’s a good chance that you can stop further recession and even regrow some lost hair. However, for those with advanced hair loss, it might be harder to fully restore a thick head of hair. Give any treatment a full year to show results, and if you’re not satisfied, you can consider more intensive options like hair transplants.

Who should I see about my hair loss?

If you’re thinking of trying minoxidil, you don’t need a prescription—it’s available over the counter. But if you’re on other medications or have any underlying conditions, it’s always smart to consult your doctor before starting a new treatment. For prescription treatments like finasteride, your regular doctor can help, or you may prefer to see a hair loss specialist like a dermatologist or a board-certified hair restoration physician for more advanced solutions, like hair transplants.

Can I take minoxidil and finasteride together?

Absolutely, yes. In fact, combining minoxidil and finasteride is often the most effective way to treat hair loss. Minoxidil helps by stimulating hair growth, while finasteride works by preventing the hormone DHT from shrinking hair follicles. Together, they tackle hair loss from different angles—preventing further follicle damage and encouraging new growth. Typically, minoxidil is applied twice daily, while finasteride is taken once daily as a pill.

I’m in my thirties; do I need to worry about hair loss now?

“Worry” might be a bit strong, but keeping an eye on your hairline is smart. If you start noticing thinning or receding early, the sooner you act, the better. Hair loss is easier to prevent than to reverse, so addressing it in the early stages will give you the best chance of maintaining your hair for longer.

Can I use the same products on my beard?

It depends on the product. For example, DHT actually promotes beard growth, so using DHT blockers like finasteride can thin your beard. However, minoxidil can help boost beard growth. If you’re interested in growing a thicker beard, I recommend checking out our article on proven methods for achieving better beard growth—minoxidil is one of those options.

Conclusion

Hair loss often starts as early as your thirties, but the sooner you begin treatment, the better your chances of slowing or even reversing the process. In this article, I’ve shared several scientifically backed treatments that you can trust, along with some insight into products that overpromise and underdeliver. Starting your battle against thinning hair early can make all the difference.

Have you tried any of these treatments? I’d love to hear about your experience. What worked for you? What didn’t? Did you experience any side effects? Let’s share our experiences and knowledge so we can help each other make the most informed decisions.

Feel free to leave any additional questions in the comments, and I’ll do my best to address them. And don’t forget to share this guide with others who are dealing with androgenetic alopecia—let’s take on hair loss together and walk off into the sunset with fuller, thicker hair!

Hair loss concealers are products that help cover thinning spots, giving your hair a fuller, more natural look. They’re not a permanent fix, but they can be a great confidence booster when you need a quick solution. Let me share some key tips from my experience on what to consider before buying a concealer.

Before You Buy: 6 Things to Consider When Purchasing a Hair Loss Concealer

I know how overwhelming it can be to choose the right product, especially when you’re just starting out. Over the years, I’ve learned the hard way that picking the wrong concealer can lead to some embarrassing moments. Let me help you avoid that.

1. Make Sure It Matches Your Hair Color

This seems like common sense, but trust me, it’s worth mentioning. The concealer needs to match your hair color perfectly. If it doesn’t, you’ll end up with patches of mismatched color that stand out even more than your thinning hair. I’ve had moments where I thought I could get away with a slight color difference, but it wasn’t worth it. Take the time to get the right match.

2. Ease of Application

I’m all about saving time, so I always look for a product that’s easy to apply. Some concealers are incredibly simple and take less than a minute, while others require a little more effort. If you’re always in a rush like me, go for something that fits into your routine seamlessly. A few of the best ones I’ve tried just need a quick spray or shake, and I’m good to go.

3. Does It Work on Every Hairstyle?

Whether your hair is straight, curly, thin, or thick, your concealer should work with your specific style. Some products I’ve used worked wonders on short, thin hair, while others were better for longer, fuller styles. Make sure the one you choose fits your needs so you don’t end up frustrated with a product that doesn’t work well with your hair type.

4. The Materials Used to Make Hair Loss Fibers

I’ve found that different concealers use various fibers, and that plays a huge role in how natural the result looks. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Natural Human Hair Fibers: If you want the most realistic look, go for concealers that use human hair fibers. These have always given me the best, most natural results. They blend seamlessly with your own hair.
• Keratin Fibers: Keratin is great for mimicking natural hair. Since our own hair is made from keratin, I found these fibers not only blend well but also don’t irritate the scalp.
• Cotton Fibers: Cotton fibers, particularly Moroccan cotton, are decent but I’ve noticed they don’t stick as well to existing hair. They work best if you’re trying to cover bald spots, but may not give you the same natural finish as keratin or human hair fibers.
• Wool Fibers: I’d personally avoid wool-based concealers unless you’re sure they’ll work for you. Wool doesn’t blend as well with human hair and can sometimes cause irritation. I’ve had issues with this before, so I steer clear of it.

5. Resistance Factors

One of the first things I check for is how well the concealer holds up under different conditions. You’ll want something resistant to water, heat, and humidity. I’ve been caught in the rain before, and let me tell you, you don’t want your concealer washing off mid-day! Some products even hold up in the pool or under the sun, so be sure to look for that if you’re active or live in a humid area.

6. Is It Skin Friendly?

This is something I learned after a few bad reactions. Your scalp is sensitive, and some products can cause irritation. Always check if the concealer is gentle on the skin. If you have sensitive skin like I do, opt for products made from natural fibers, like human hair or keratin, to avoid any discomfort.

Here’s a breakdown of the best hair loss concealers and fibers I’ve personally tested, each one delivering varying levels of success depending on your specific needs. If you’re like me, searching for that perfect balance of natural appearance and ease of use, this guide will walk you through the top options.

The 8 best hair loss concealers & hair fibers

1. Toppik Hair Building Fibers

Toppik is one of the biggest names in the hair loss concealer industry, and after using their Hair Building Fibers, it’s easy to see why. If you’re dealing with thinning hair and want a product that delivers a natural-looking, fuller head of hair, Toppik’s fibers are a go-to option.

What stood out to me was how the keratin fibers, which are derived from wool, bond with my existing hair using a static charge. These fibers attach to even the finest strands of hair, filling in the gaps and giving an overall appearance of thicker hair. I appreciated that these fibers come in nine shades, making it easy to match my natural hair color. Even on windy or rainy days, I noticed that the fibers held up well until I washed them out with shampoo.

However, I did find that applying the product took a bit more time than others I’ve used, but the results were worth it.

Pros:

• Wide range of color options
• Stays in place even in harsh conditions
• Creates a natural, fuller look

Cons:

• Takes slightly longer to apply

Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a well-known, reliable option that delivers solid results, Toppik Hair Building Fibers are a great choice. They provide excellent coverage and hold, especially if you want your hair to look fuller and thicker.

2. Caboki Hair Loss Concealer

I found Caboki to be one of the most natural-looking hair loss concealers. If you’re like me and worried about your concealer being too obvious, Caboki’s fibers blend seamlessly with your hair, so it looks like you’re not using anything at all.

What impressed me was how the fibers, made from natural plant-based ingredients, cling to hair through a static charge that’s strong enough to withstand wind, rain, and sweat. Unlike some other products I’ve tried, Caboki didn’t stain my skin or clothes, which is always a plus. I found it worked best when my hair was still in the earlier stages of thinning, as it effectively fills in small bald spots and makes the thinning areas appear fuller.

Caboki is easy to apply, and you can simply shake it onto your dry hair, using your hands or a comb to disperse the fibers. It’s a quick process that only takes a few minutes.

Pros:

• Natural fibers that work well on sensitive skin
• Provides a natural look with no staining
• Easy and quick to apply

Cons:

• Can be a bit messy during application

Bottom Line: Caboki is a fantastic option if you want a product that delivers natural-looking results without irritating your scalp. It’s especially great for filling in thinning areas and small bald spots, but it might not be as effective for larger areas of baldness.

3. Cuvva Hair Fibers

For those of you who are always rushing out the door in the morning, like I am, Cuvva Hair Fibers are a lifesaver. They’re incredibly easy to apply—just 20 seconds, and you’re good to go. I was impressed with how quickly the fibers covered thinning areas, giving my hair a thicker, fuller look without requiring much effort.

What I also liked was how Cuvva fibers work to add texture to your hairstyle, and they’re perfect for touching up roots between colorings. The keratin-based fibers bond nicely to your hair, and you can easily remove them by washing your hair at the end of the day.

While Cuvva works great for both men and women, I did find it struggled a bit with covering gray hair. However, if you’re not dealing with grays, it’s a quick, effective solution.

Pros:

• Super fast and easy application
• Adds texture and thickness
• Suitable for both men and women

Cons:

• Not as effective on gray hair

Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a fast, no-fuss solution to thinning hair, Cuvva’s fibers are perfect. They’re quick to apply, and you’ll see results almost immediately. Just be aware that they might not be as effective if you have a lot of gray hair.

4. Samson Best Hair Loss Concealer Building Fibers

Samson Hair Loss Concealer takes a more natural approach, which I appreciated, especially since the fibers are not derived from animal products. This is great for anyone who has ethical concerns or allergies related to animal-derived products.

These fibers are finely cut and then charged through an electrostatic process to ensure they cling tightly to your hair, giving you the appearance of thicker, fuller hair almost immediately. The results are very natural, and I noticed that Samson’s fibers are practically undetectable, even at close range.

I also liked that Samson offers an electronic sprayer and Hair Fiber Lock Spray, which makes it easier to apply the product evenly and lock it in place. The fibers hold up well throughout the day, but you can easily wash them out with shampoo when you’re ready.

Pros:

• Non-irritating natural fibers
• Provides a very natural look
• Comes with an optional electronic sprayer for easy application

Cons:

• Slight scent that may not appeal to everyone

Bottom Line: Samson’s hair fibers are a great option if you want a more natural, eco-friendly product that still delivers excellent results. The fibers cling tightly to your hair, creating a natural look that’s hard to beat.

5. Strand Maximizer Hair Fibers

Strand Maximizer is a top pick for hair loss concealers, especially if you’re already undergoing treatments like Rogaine or Propecia. I found it to be an excellent filler that adds instant thickness and texture to your hair. It’s available in powder form, and the results are immediate, which is something I always appreciate when getting ready quickly.

One of the standout features of Strand Maximizer is how well the keratin fibers blend with your natural hair. When I used it, I was impressed with how undetectable it was—no one knew I was using a concealer, and that’s a win in my book. The keratin fibers are electrostatically charged, allowing them to bond tightly with even the thinnest of hair, staying put until your next shampoo.

A small tip from my experience: apply the fibers before using any styling products like gels or sprays, but after blow-drying your hair. This ensures the fibers hold well without clumping.

Pros:

• Blends seamlessly with natural hair
• Suitable for men and women using hair loss treatments
• Made from natural plant fibers

Cons:

• Can be messy if not applied correctly

Bottom Line: Strand Maximizer is ideal for anyone dealing with thinning hair or undergoing hair loss treatments. It blends easily and gives a natural look of fullness, making it a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their hair’s appearance.

6. BOLDIFY Hair Fibers for Thinning Hair

When it comes to withstanding unpredictable weather, Boldify Hair Fibers are a fantastic option. I was impressed by how resilient these fibers are against rain, wind, and even sweat. Once applied, you won’t have to worry about reapplying until your next wash, which is a huge convenience.

Originally designed for use in the entertainment industry, these fibers are nearly impossible to detect, even under harsh lighting. The keratin fibers have a shine to them that mimics real hair, avoiding that dull, powdery appearance some fibers can have. I also loved that Boldify offers a lifetime money-back guarantee, and if you’re not satisfied with the color match, they’ll continue sending you new bottles until you’re happy.

If you’re someone who’s concerned about a natural, undetectable finish, this is a product to consider. The lightweight formula doesn’t clump, and it works on all hair types and colors.

Pros:

• Realistic look with shiny fibers that mimic natural hair
• Sticks well to hair and holds up in all conditions
• Lifetime money-back guarantee

Cons:

• Can be a little messy during application

Bottom Line: Boldify’s Hair Fibers offer a durable, weather-resistant solution for thinning hair, all while providing a realistic, undetectable finish. It’s a great option for anyone seeking long-lasting results.

7. DermMatch Waterproof Hair Loss Concealer

DermMatch takes a different approach from fiber-based concealers, offering a cream-based solution that you apply with a brush directly to the scalp. I found this to be a fantastic option for anyone looking for a concealer that won’t budge, even in water. If you’re someone who enjoys swimming or works up a sweat, this is a great choice.

The cream is made from botanical ingredients and mineral-based colorants, which means it’s safe for sensitive skin. It provides a fuller, thicker look by coating each hair shaft, and it blends seamlessly with your existing hair. The result? A natural finish that’s hard to detect, even in direct lighting.

One of the things I loved about DermMatch is how long it lasts. Each disk lasts three times longer than fiber products, making it a cost-effective solution. However, it’s important to apply the product correctly—let it dry for a few minutes before styling to avoid streaks on your clothes.

Pros:

• Waterproof and sweat-resistant
• Long-lasting, cost-effective solution
• Natural ingredients and colorants

Cons:

• May dry out your hair if used frequently

Bottom Line: DermMatch is perfect for those who need a waterproof concealer that provides excellent coverage for thinning hair. It’s long-lasting and gives a natural, undetectable finish.

8. Eclipse Hair Building Fibers & Beard Filler

Eclipse Hair Building Fibers offer a quick, adjustable way to fill in thinning hair and beard gaps. What I liked most about this product is how fast it works—within 30 seconds, it conceals any thinning areas realistically and lasts until your next shampoo, sometimes even up to a week.

These fibers are wind and rain-resistant, making them ideal for outdoor activities. You apply them by shaking or pumping the fibers into the desired area, and then use the Infinity Fiber Locking Spray to keep everything in place. I found the color options to be plentiful, ensuring that anyone can find a suitable match for their hair.

Although the fibers are on the thinner side, which might not work well for large areas of baldness, they are great for smaller areas or touch-ups. The small bottle size makes it easy to carry around and apply on the go.

Pros:

• Wind and rain-resistant
• Lasts up to a week
• Multiple natural-looking color options

Cons:

• Fibers may be too thin for larger areas of hair loss

Bottom Line: Eclipse Hair Building Fibers are a great choice for those needing a quick, natural-looking fix for smaller areas of thinning hair. They’re highly resistant to the elements and easy to travel with, making them a practical option for everyday use.

The how-to of applying a hair concealer

Before we dive in, I’ve learned through trial and error that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to applying hair loss concealers—it really depends on the type of product you’re using. However, there are some general steps that have helped me get the best results no matter which concealer I’m using. Let me walk you through what I’ve found works best:

1. Start with dry hair

I’ve found that starting with dry hair is key, no matter the product. If your hair is damp, the concealer won’t distribute evenly and may leave behind a chalky residue, especially if you use a liquid-based concealer. I’ve also noticed that using a hair dryer or styling tools after applying the product can cause the fibers to become dislodged or uneven, so make sure your hair is styled beforehand.

2. Apply concealer where hair already exists

Remember, hair loss concealers aren’t magic potions that generate new hair growth—they just make your existing hair look fuller. From my experience, it’s best to focus on areas where your hair is thinning, rather than applying it to completely bald spots. If you apply it over thin areas, it blends in more naturally and provides the volume you’re looking for.

3. Choose the right color

Matching the concealer color to your natural hair is one of the most important steps for a seamless look. I usually go for a shade that matches or is slightly darker than my natural color to create the appearance of depth. Anything too light can end up looking powdery or unnatural, which is the last thing you want when trying to boost your hair’s appearance.

4. Applying to a thinning hairline and temples

For many of us, thinning around the hairline and temples is the first sign of hair loss. I’ve found the best way to apply concealer here is to start from behind the hairline and blend it forward in short strokes. This gives a more natural look and helps avoid creating a harsh or obvious line. You can go slightly over the hairline, but only if there’s enough hair to comb over the excess product.

5. Applying to a thinning crown

Thinning at the crown can be tricky since it’s hard to see. When I apply concealer to this area, I use a hand mirror and blend the product outwards from the center of the thinning area. This method helps the concealer blend into the thicker hair surrounding the crown, creating a more natural transition.

6. Comb or brush your hair

Once the concealer is applied, I always brush or comb my hair to distribute the fibers evenly and shape my hair the way I want. A light mist of hairspray afterward can help lock the fibers in place, ensuring they stay put throughout the day. Trust me, this little extra step makes all the difference, especially if you’re planning to be outside in the wind or rain.

The main types of hair loss concealers

There are two main types of hair loss concealers—liquid and powder—each with its own pros and cons. After trying both, I can say that the choice depends on your hair type and personal preference.

Hair loss concealer sprays

Spray concealers are the most common type of liquid concealer. They contain color dyes that match your hair color and are easy to apply. I find them particularly useful for quick touch-ups, but they do require a little finesse to avoid over-application. Some liquid concealers also come in gel or crème form and can be more controlled, but sprays are usually the go-to for convenience.

Hair loss concealer powders

Powder concealers, on the other hand, are fiber-based. These tiny fibers bond with your existing hair using static electricity, giving it a thicker appearance instantly. I personally prefer powders for more targeted areas since they tend to blend more naturally with thin hair, especially when applied carefully.

How we chose the best hair loss concealers and fibers

When I was testing out different concealers and fibers, I looked at a few key factors. First, I focused on the materials—whether the fibers were made from natural materials like keratin or plant fibers, or if they used synthetic fibers. The best concealers feel natural and blend seamlessly with your hair, and they should also be easy to apply without making a mess. Durability in different weather conditions was another big factor. The last thing you want is for your concealer to melt away in the rain or smudge if you’re sweating.

Finally, the most important aspect: Do the results look realistic? After all, we want to feel confident that no one can tell we’re using a concealer, and that’s where product quality really shows.

Conclusion

There’s no shortage of good hair loss concealers and fibers out there, and choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. I hope my experiences with these products help guide you to something that works for your specific needs. Whether you’re just beginning to notice thinning or are looking for a product that holds up in all conditions, the options on this list are tried and true.

Have you used hair concealers and fibers before? If so, I’d love to hear about your experience—what worked, what didn’t, and if there are any products you swear by. Let’s keep this conversation going and help each other find the best solutions. Until next time, take care and feel confident knowing you’ve got options for fuller, healthier-looking hair!

In this post, I’ll walk you through the 14 best hair loss products available right now. These include shampoos, minoxidil formulas, tablets, and even tools—all designed to target hair loss from different angles. I’m sharing my personal experience to help you discover which product might be the best fit for your unique needs.

Before You Buy: 3 Things You Should Know About Hair Loss Products

When you first notice hair loss, it’s easy to wonder, “Why is this happening to me?” Trust me, I’ve been there too. It’s a valid question, and the emotional toll of hair loss can be overwhelming. However, the reasons behind hair loss are often out of our control, and that’s why finding the right treatment is so important.

Why You’re Losing Hair

• Genetics: One of the biggest causes of hair loss is simply genetics. If hair thinning or baldness runs in your family, it’s likely that you may experience it too. Unfortunately, this is something we can’t change—it’s in our DNA.
• Hormones: Men, in particular, may lose hair because their hair follicles are sensitive to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT shrinks the hair follicles and contributes to hair thinning and eventual loss.
• Age: As we get older, hair growth naturally slows down. This aging process can’t be avoided, but it can be managed with the right products.
• Other Factors: There are external factors too, like stress, poor diet, smoking, alcohol consumption, and medications that can accelerate hair loss. Medications such as antidepressants, cholesterol-lowering drugs, and blood pressure meds have been linked to hair thinning in some cases.

What to Know About Hair Loss Products

When you walk into a store or pharmacy and browse hair loss products, it can feel overwhelming. Most likely, you’ll see a bunch of ingredients you don’t recognize. Here’s what I’ve learned through my research and experience about the key ingredients that make a real difference:

• Ketoconazole: This ingredient controls the growth of fungi on the scalp and helps reduce hair loss by targeting inflammation.
• Biotin: Known as vitamin B7, biotin helps combat hair loss by addressing deficiencies. It’s a critical component of hair health that can be found naturally in eggs and vegetables or through supplements.
• Saw Palmetto: This natural ingredient helps block the enzyme that converts testosterone into DHT, preventing hair follicle shrinkage.
• Caffeine: Yes, the same ingredient in your morning coffee. Caffeine is known to help stimulate hair follicles and promote growth.
• Finasteride and Minoxidil: These are FDA-approved treatments for hair loss. Finasteride (Propecia) reduces DHT, while Minoxidil (Rogaine) is effective in increasing hair density for both men and women.

What to Avoid

When dealing with hair loss, desperation can sometimes lead us to try products that don’t work. Avoid products that don’t have FDA approval or don’t contain the key ingredients I mentioned above. Stick to treatments that are backed by clinical results, and don’t be swayed by products that promise the world but deliver nothing.

The 14 Best Hair Growth Products for Men & Women

1. Revita Hair Growth Stimulating Shampoo

Best features:

• Packed with natural ingredients
• Clinically proven to treat hair loss
• Boosts hydration

The best hair growth product for:

• Anyone looking for a shampoo with proven results

Overview: Revita’s Hair Growth Stimulating Shampoo is one of my go-to products because it combines cutting-edge technology with proven results. It’s packed with ingredients like emu oil, biotin, ketoconazole, caffeine, and vitamin B2, all of which work together to target hair loss. One of the standout features is DS Laboratories’ Nanosome system, which allows the active ingredients to penetrate the scalp more effectively.

Through my personal experience, I’ve noticed this shampoo not only helps reduce hair loss but also improves scalp health. I found that consistent use made my hair feel thicker and healthier over time. In clinical tests, 90% of participants reported reduced hair loss, and 70% saw a reduction in the rate of hair loss progression. This makes Revita one of the best options for anyone dealing with thinning hair.

Pro tip: For maximum effectiveness, consider pairing this shampoo with Revita’s conditioner or their hair revitalization tablets for a comprehensive hair loss solution.

Pros:

• Clinically proven ingredients for hair growth
• Unique delivery system ensures maximum effectiveness
• Gentle but effective

Cons:

• Can leave hair feeling a bit dry
• Works best when combined with other treatments

2. Ultrax Labs Hair Surge | Caffeine Hair Loss Growth Stimulating Shampoo

Best features:

• Delivers fast results
• Contains caffeine to stimulate hair growth
• Uses an effective delivery system

The best hair growth product for:

• Men and women looking to enhance other hair loss treatments with a caffeine-based shampoo

Overview: When I first came across Ultrax Labs Hair Surge, the “revolutionary” claims caught my attention, and while it seemed like a bold promise, I was eager to try it for myself. After using it for a few months, I have to say, it lives up to the hype. The combination of ingredients, especially the caffeine, helps promote hair growth by stimulating hair follicles. Plus, caffeine is shown to block DHT, a major factor in hair loss.

But it’s not just the caffeine that makes this product effective. It also includes ketoconazole and saw palmetto, both of which are well-known for their ability to combat hair loss. Ketoconazole, as I’ve mentioned earlier, fights scalp fungus and inflammation while acting as a mild DHT blocker. Meanwhile, saw palmetto also helps to block DHT, and while it might not be as heavily researched as ketoconazole, there’s promising evidence that it works.

What I found particularly impressive about this shampoo is how well it works for both men and women. After about three months, I noticed a reduction in hair shedding, especially around my hairline, which can be a tough area to regrow hair. Ultrax Labs’ formula ensures that the active ingredients stay in contact with the scalp for maximum absorption, thanks to their unique delivery system.

Pros:

• Can be used alone or alongside other shampoos
• Proven ingredients for hair growth
• Keeps the scalp healthy

Cons:

• Doesn’t lather as well as other shampoos
• Best used in combination with other treatments

Bottom line: Ultrax Labs Hair Surge is one of the top caffeine-based shampoos for hair loss, offering a great combination of ingredients that stimulate hair growth while blocking DHT. Although it may not work as a stand-alone treatment for those with severe hair loss, it’s an excellent addition to your hair care routine to help prevent further thinning and promote healthier growth.

3. Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Best features:

• Fights fungus that can cause hair loss
• Gentle on hair
• Requires only two uses per week

The best hair growth product for:

• People dealing with dandruff and hair loss

Overview: Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is a product I’ve turned to when dealing with both dandruff and hair loss. What makes this shampoo stand out is its active ingredient, ketoconazole, which not only treats dandruff but also combats the fungi that can inhibit hair growth. It’s a one-two punch for healthier hair and a cleaner scalp.

What I like about Nizoral A-D is that you only need to use it twice a week to get results. The ketoconazole binds to the natural proteins in your hair, so it keeps working between washes, which is a major convenience if you’re like me and don’t want to wash your hair every day. The anti-inflammatory properties also promote scalp health, which is key to encouraging new hair growth.

Another bonus is that Nizoral A-D is gentle enough for color-treated hair, which I appreciated. However, if you’re dealing with more severe hair loss, you’ll likely need to combine it with another more potent hair growth treatment.

Pros:

• Fights dandruff and hair loss simultaneously
• Combats scalp fungus
• Has a pleasant, fresh scent

Cons:

• The bottle is on the smaller side
• Should be paired with stronger hair loss treatments for more severe cases

Bottom line: If you’re dealing with dandruff and hair thinning, Nizoral A-D is a fantastic option. It’s proven to fight dandruff while promoting a healthy scalp, helping to maintain your hair’s overall health. Just keep in mind that it’s best used as part of a broader hair loss prevention routine.

4. Lipogaine Hair Loss/Hair Growth Stimulating Shampoo

Best features:

• Packed with natural ingredients
• Suitable for both men and women
• Reduces scalp inflammation

The best hair growth product for:

• Anyone seeking a gentle, chemical-free product suitable for all hair types

Overview: Lipogaine’s Hair Loss/Hair Growth Stimulating Shampoo is one of the more natural options I’ve tried, and it really stood out because of its long list of beneficial ingredients. This shampoo includes biotin, castor oil, and emu oil, which are all known for their hair health benefits. Biotin helps strengthen hair, while castor oil and emu oil reduce scalp inflammation, a key contributor to hair thinning.

I liked how gentle this shampoo was on my scalp, and I could use it daily without worrying about dryness or irritation. It’s designed to hydrate the hair while boosting scalp health, and after a few months of use, I noticed my hair felt healthier and stronger.

However, because Lipogaine doesn’t contain minoxidil or other potent hair growth chemicals, it may not be strong enough on its own if you’re already experiencing significant hair loss. That said, it’s a great natural option for anyone looking to prevent further thinning or as a complement to other treatments.

Pros:

• Full of natural, gentle ingredients
• Easy to apply and non-greasy
• Suitable for all hair types

Cons:

• Must be used consistently for the best results
• Some people may react to the essential oils in the formula

Bottom line: Lipogaine’s Hair Loss/Hair Growth Stimulating Shampoo is a gentle, effective product that focuses on improving scalp health and supporting hair growth. While it may not be the strongest option for those already dealing with severe hair loss, it’s a great natural choice for prevention and early treatment.

5. Spectral DNC-N (For Men) — Nanoxidil Spray

Best features:

• Contains Nanoxidil, an alternative to Minoxidil
• Absorbs more efficiently into the skin
• Includes essential natural ingredients

The best hair growth product for:

• People looking for a Minoxidil alternative

Overview: When I first heard about Spectral DNC-N, I was intrigued by its use of Nanoxidil, a newer ingredient touted as an alternative to Minoxidil. DS Laboratories, the company behind this product, is known for being at the cutting edge of hair loss treatments, and Spectral DNC-N is no exception.

Nanoxidil works similarly to Minoxidil, promoting hair growth while reducing hair loss. The key difference is that Nanoxidil has a lower molecular weight, which means it’s absorbed more efficiently by the scalp, reducing the likelihood of side effects often associated with Minoxidil, like irritation. I found it to be a more comfortable option for long-term use.

The product also contains a range of other hair-friendly ingredients, such as myristoyl pentapeptide-17, adenosine, and piroctone olamine, which further stimulate hair growth and support the scalp’s health. Applying it is simple, thanks to its water-based spray formula that leaves no greasy residue.

What stood out for me was how easy it was to incorporate into my daily routine. You can even pair it with DS Laboratories’ Spectral.F7 Efficacy Booster for enhanced results, especially if stress is a contributor to your hair loss.

Pro tip: For a complete hair loss solution, consider getting the Men’s Hair Loss Kit PLUS or a three-month supply of Spectral DNC-N for the best value.

Pros:

• Offers the benefits of Minoxidil with fewer side effects
• Easy to apply and non-greasy
• Backed by clinical studies and trials

Cons:

• Requires consistent use to see results

Bottom line: Spectral DNC-N is an innovative solution for those looking for an alternative to Minoxidil. It’s proven effective, supported by research, and is a great option for men seeking a modern approach to hair loss treatment.

6. Lipogaine (For Men) — Minoxidil Liquid

Best features:

• Reduces DHT levels on the scalp
• Improves circulation to the scalp and hair follicles
• Comes with a money-back guarantee

The best hair growth product for:

• Men looking for a 5% Minoxidil blend

Overview: Lipogaine for Men is another product that I’ve found to be highly effective, particularly for those who want to stick with a tried-and-true treatment like Minoxidil. What sets Lipogaine apart from other Minoxidil products is the additional blend of ingredients that support hair growth and scalp health.

The 5% Minoxidil formula is combined with a herbal DHT-blocker blend, including saw palmetto extract, beta-sitosterol, and apple polyphenol. These ingredients help reduce DHT, the hormone responsible for shrinking hair follicles and causing hair loss. By reducing DHT levels, Lipogaine helps slow hair loss while improving blood flow to the scalp, encouraging new growth.

One of the things I appreciate about Lipogaine is its long-standing reputation—over 25 years of experience in the hair loss field. They even offer a full refund if you’re not satisfied with the results, which speaks to their confidence in the product.

Pros:

• Proven results with 5% Minoxidil
• Packed with natural ingredients and DHT blockers
• Suitable for men experiencing AGA

Cons:

• More effective at halting hair loss than promoting new growth

Bottom line: Lipogaine for Men is a trusted name in hair loss treatment, offering a powerful Minoxidil formula enhanced with natural DHT blockers. It’s ideal for men looking to slow hair loss while maintaining healthy hair growth.

7. Rogaine Hair Loss & Hair Thinning Treatment Minoxidil Foam (For Men)

Best features:

• FDA-approved
• Contains a 5% Minoxidil solution
• Helps to thicken hair

The best hair growth product for:

• Those looking for the longest-standing FDA-approved hair loss treatment

Overview: Rogaine is a name synonymous with hair loss treatment, and for a good reason. It was the first company to patent Minoxidil as a hair loss treatment and remains one of the most trusted brands on the market. When I tested the Rogaine Hair Loss & Hair Thinning Treatment, I found it to be both effective and easy to use, especially in its foam format.

Rogaine’s 5% Minoxidil formula is enhanced with Tricho-prime Technology, which helps distribute the active ingredients directly to the scalp and hair follicles, promoting growth and increasing thickness. In clinical studies, Rogaine users saw significant improvements in hair density within four months, and I noticed positive changes in my hair’s overall appearance after a few months of consistent use.

The foam format is particularly user-friendly, as it’s non-greasy and absorbs quickly. Rogaine’s formula is designed specifically for men dealing with androgenetic alopecia (AGA), making it a reliable choice for those with a family history of hair loss.

Pros:

• Clinically proven to stimulate hair growth
• Pleasant, neutral fragrance
• Easy foam application

Cons:

• Doesn’t include DHT-blocking ingredients

Bottom line: Rogaine remains one of the most effective and trusted products for treating hair loss. If you’re looking for a proven, FDA-approved treatment, Rogaine’s 5% Minoxidil foam is a fantastic option. Pairing it with other treatments like finasteride can further improve results.

8. Spectral.CSF (For Women) — Nanoxidil Spray

Best features:

• A Nanoxidil product tailored for women
• Lightweight formula
• Hydrates and nourishes hair

The best hair growth product for:

• Women seeking a targeted hair growth solution

Overview: DS Laboratories didn’t forget about women when they developed Spectral.CSF, a Nanoxidil-based formula specifically designed for women experiencing hair thinning. One of the challenges women face with hair loss treatments is that many are too heavy or greasy for finer hair, which is why Spectral.CSF’s lightweight formula is a game-changer.

The formula includes adenosine, zinc, plant-based stem cells, and L-arginine, all of which help promote hair growth while improving hair density. It’s free of harmful chemicals like parabens, sulfates, and phthalates, which can irritate the scalp. What I love about Spectral.CSF is that it targets hair follicles without weighing down the hair, leaving it soft and manageable.

Spectral.CSF also uses the company’s Nanosome delivery system, which ensures the ingredients penetrate deeply into the scalp, making the treatment more effective. It’s a water-based spray, so there’s no greasy residue, and you can style your hair as usual after applying it.

Pro tip: For the best value, opt for the three-month supply of Spectral.CSF or the Women’s Hair Loss Kit PLUS for a complete solution.

Pros:

• Lightweight and non-greasy formula
• Free of harmful additives
• Promotes thicker, healthier hair

Cons:

• Some users may not like the texture

Bottom line: Spectral.CSF is a top choice for women dealing with hair thinning who want a lightweight, effective solution. It’s designed to prevent hair loss while promoting a fuller, thicker appearance, without the heaviness of traditional treatments.

9. Lipogaine (For Women) — Minoxidil Liquid

Best features:

• Contains biotin to support healthy hair
• Specifically formulated for women
• Easy-to-apply liquid solution

The best hair growth product for:

• Women seeking a product that also treats a sensitive scalp

Overview: Hair loss is an issue that impacts many women, often more than is openly discussed. By age 40, about 40% of women will experience hair thinning, and the social stigma makes it an even harder challenge. Fortunately, Lipogaine for Women provides a specialized solution that targets female hair loss with a gentle and effective formula.

The key active ingredient in this product is 2% Minoxidil, which is FDA-approved and clinically proven to treat female pattern hair loss (FPHL). Minoxidil is one of the few ingredients that’s proven to stimulate hair regrowth, and Lipogaine’s formula is designed to deliver it effectively to the scalp without irritation. Additionally, the product includes a sensitive scalp version to help those who experience irritation or inflammation when using typical hair growth treatments.

What sets Lipogaine apart is its thoughtful blend of other hair-boosting ingredients like saw palmetto, ketoconazole, emu oil, and linoleic and oleic acids. These work together to block DHT and promote healthier hair growth. Biotin is also included to support overall hair health, although it’s worth noting that biotin is most effective when addressing deficiencies rather than as a primary hair growth stimulant.

Using the product is simple—you apply the liquid to your scalp with the dropper, massaging it in for better absorption. Most women apply it at night, letting it work its magic as they sleep.

Pros:

• Effective in reducing hair loss for women
• Suitable for all hair types
• Results are visible within a few weeks

Cons:

• Slower to show visible regrowth compared to some other products
• Biotin may not address hair loss unless you have a deficiency

Bottom line: For women dealing with hair thinning or pattern baldness, Lipogaine offers an excellent Minoxidil-based treatment. It’s effective at halting hair loss and promoting thicker, fuller hair with regular use.

10. Rogaine Treatment for Hair Loss & Hair Thinning Once-a-Day Minoxidil Foam (For Women)

Best features:

• Available over the counter
• Clinically proven to stop hair loss and promote growth
• FDA-approved for female hair loss

The best hair growth product for:

• Women seeking a reliable, once-a-day hair growth treatment

Overview: Rogaine for Women is one of the most trusted names in hair loss treatment, and their Once-a-Day Minoxidil Foam is a top choice for many women experiencing thinning hair. What makes this product stand out is its 5% Minoxidil solution, which is the highest strength approved for women, allowing for significant results when used daily.

The foam format is easy to apply and dries quickly, making it convenient for both morning and nighttime use. I found that it fit seamlessly into my routine, and the results were noticeable after a few months of consistent application. The product’s Tricho-prime Technology ensures that the Minoxidil penetrates the scalp deeply to reactivate shrunken hair follicles, which helps to not only stop further hair loss but also promote new growth.

One important thing to note is that women should use the product exactly as directed—once a day—since overuse can lead to unwanted side effects such as excess hair growth in areas like the face.

Pros:

• Fast-acting results with once-a-day application
• Easy-to-use foam format
• FDA-approved with clinically proven results

Cons:

• Results may vary, and some users may see regrowth slower than others

Bottom line: Rogaine for Women remains one of the most effective and accessible treatments for female hair loss. With consistent use, most women will see a significant reduction in hair thinning and an increase in hair density over time.

11. Derma Roller (StimuROLLER) — Microneedling Tool

Best features:

• Stimulates hair follicles to promote growth
• Aids in skin exfoliation
• Only requires use once a week

The best hair growth product for:

• People looking for a non-chemical, alternative treatment for hair loss

Overview: The Derma Roller is an innovative tool for treating hair loss through microneedling, a process that uses tiny needles to create micro-wounds on the scalp. This may sound intense, but the science behind it is sound. These small wounds trigger the body’s healing response, which leads to increased blood flow, the release of growth factors, and the stimulation of hair follicles.

I was initially hesitant about trying microneedling, but the results are impressive. Studies show that derma rollers can improve hair density and even promote regrowth in people with androgenetic alopecia (AGA). This tool can be used on its own or combined with topical treatments to boost their efficacy. However, it’s important to avoid using Minoxidil right after microneedling, as it can lead to unwanted side effects due to increased absorption.

When using the Derma Roller, I found that the process was simple—just a few rolls over the affected area once a week. Over time, this encourages healthier, thicker hair.

Pros:

• Proven to stimulate hair growth
• Safe and easy to use at home
• Minimal side effects compared to chemical treatments

Cons:

• Some users may experience mild discomfort during use
• Requires proper technique to avoid irritation

Bottom line: The Derma Roller is a fantastic alternative for those who prefer to avoid medications or want to supplement their existing hair loss treatments. With consistent weekly use, it can lead to noticeable improvements in hair thickness and overall scalp health.

12. iRestore Laser Hair Growth System — Low-Level Laser Therapy Tool (Helmet)

Best features:

• Utilizes low-level laser therapy (LLLT)
• Comfortable and lightweight to wear
• No known side effects

The best hair growth product for:

• Individuals seeking a non-drug, effortless alternative to traditional hair loss treatments

Overview: When I first heard about the iRestore Laser Hair Growth System, I was intrigued by the idea of using laser technology to stimulate hair growth. Cleared by the FDA, this device treats hair loss, thinning hair, and receding hairlines in both men and women. The term “cleared” by the FDA means that the device has been reviewed and found to offer more benefits than risks—a good sign for anyone hesitant about trying it.

The iRestore system is a helmet-like device that uses 51 medical-grade lasers and LEDs to deliver low-level laser therapy (LLLT). This light energy enhances cell metabolism and reactivates hair follicles, encouraging them to grow thicker and fuller. The treatment is painless, and you simply wear the helmet for 25 minutes every two days.

I found it comfortable and easy to use. It fits well, and you can go about your business during the treatment without disruption. You can even pair it with a hair growth shampoo to maximize results, but it also works well as a standalone treatment.

The studies behind LLLT show that it’s effective in halting hair loss and encouraging new growth, which reassured me. In fact, participants in clinical trials saw an average increase of 43.2% in hair count after four months of consistent use.

Pros:

• FDA-cleared device with strong research backing its effectiveness
• No side effects
• Lightweight and easy to use

Cons:

• Works best when combined with other treatments like hair loss shampoos

Bottom line: The iRestore Laser Hair Growth System offers a science-backed, non-invasive solution for those looking to improve hair growth without resorting to medications. It’s a great alternative that provides consistent results for a broad range of users.

13. Revita Tablets for Hair Revitalization — Nutraceutical Supplement (Tablet)

Best features:

• Drug-free, nutraceutical formula
• Reduces scalp inflammation
• Convenient once-a-day tablet

The best hair growth product for:

• Individuals looking for a natural, nutrient-based approach to hair health

Overview: If you’re like me and prefer a more natural approach to hair health, the Revita Tablets for Hair Revitalization might be exactly what you need. These tablets take a holistic approach to hair loss, offering a wide range of nutrients and antioxidants that target various causes of hair thinning, from hormonal imbalances to oxidative stress and inflammation.

A standout ingredient in the formula is melatonin, a potent antioxidant that helps extend the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle. There’s growing research suggesting that melatonin can aid hair growth by reducing oxidative stress on the scalp. The inclusion of vitamin D also impressed me, given the link between vitamin D deficiency and hair thinning.

Additionally, Revita tablets contain zinc, biotin, and iron—nutrients that are essential for healthy hair growth. These ingredients help strengthen your hair from within, promoting thicker, fuller hair over time. Taking just one tablet a day made it easy to incorporate into my routine, and I noticed an overall improvement in the health of my hair after consistent use.

Pros:

• Comprehensive blend of nutrients that target multiple hair loss factors
• Easy to take, once-a-day tablet
• Can be used alongside other hair loss treatments

Cons:

• Takes time and consistency to see noticeable results

Bottom line: Revita Tablets for Hair Revitalization offer an all-in-one, natural approach to combating hair loss. They work gradually but are a great addition to any hair health regimen, providing your body with the nutrients it needs for optimal hair growth.

14. Finasteride (For Men) — Pharmaceutical Drug (Pill)

Best features:

• Blocks the conversion of testosterone into DHT, slowing hair loss
• Can reverse some hair loss
• Prescription-strength medication that works even in severe cases

The best hair growth product for:

• Men looking for the most potent treatment to halt hair follicle miniaturization and thinning

Overview: Finasteride, commonly known by the brand name Propecia, is one of the most effective prescription medications available for male pattern baldness. Its key function is to inhibit the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into DHT (dihydrotestosterone). Since DHT is the hormone responsible for shrinking hair follicles, blocking it can significantly slow or even stop hair loss.

I decided to try Finasteride after learning about its success in clinical trials, where it has been shown to reduce DHT levels by up to 70%. Some users even experience hair regrowth in areas affected by thinning. However, it’s important to note that Finasteride is best at halting hair loss rather than regrowing lost hair.

While Finasteride is a potent tool in fighting hair loss, there have been reports of potential side effects, including decreased libido and erectile dysfunction. Though these side effects are relatively rare, it’s something to be mindful of, and you should consult with a doctor before starting the treatment. Most users, including myself, find that any side effects subside once the medication is discontinued.

Pros:

• Blocks DHT, the main culprit behind male pattern baldness
• Can reverse hair thinning in some cases
• Also offers benefits for prostate health

Cons:

• Potential side effects, though rare, should be monitored

Bottom line: For men looking for a powerful, prescription-strength option to stop hair loss in its tracks, Finasteride is one of the most effective treatments available. Just be sure to work with a healthcare professional to manage any potential side effects and monitor your progress.

Putting it all together: How to combine these products for maximum effect

Fighting hair loss while promoting hair growth requires a multi-faceted approach, especially if you want the best possible results without resorting to a hair transplant. Each of the products mentioned above delivers solid results on its own, but when you combine them strategically, you can enhance their effectiveness and get closer to your goal of a full, healthy head of hair.

The most well-known combination for treating hair loss is pairing finasteride with minoxidil, which is highly effective at halting hair loss and promoting new growth. But we can go even further by incorporating other products into your routine for a more comprehensive approach.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you build a complete hair loss treatment routine:

1. Topical Minoxidil Treatment

Start by using a topical minoxidil solution like Rogaine or a Nanoxidil-based product such as those from DS Laboratories. Both minoxidil and nanoxidil work by stimulating hair follicles and increasing blood flow to the scalp, encouraging new hair growth.

If you’re a man, the 5% dosage is your go-to, while women can opt for the 2% version or Rogaine’s once-a-day 5% foam for women. Be mindful of using too much minoxidil, as it can lead to unwanted hair growth on areas like the face, especially for women.

It’s important to note that minoxidil isn’t a permanent fix. If you stop using it, your hair will eventually revert to its pre-treatment state. That’s why consistency is key.

2. Ketoconazole-Based Shampoo

To complement your minoxidil treatment, use a ketoconazole-based shampoo to target the underlying causes of hair loss. Ketoconazole is a mild DHT blocker, and DHT is one of the main culprits behind androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss).

You can use a shampoo like Revita daily or opt for Nizoral, which contains 1-2% ketoconazole, two to three times a week. The combination of ketoconazole and minoxidil helps fight hair loss from multiple angles, giving your hair follicles a better chance of survival.

3. Oral DHT Blocker

An oral DHT blocker like finasteride can significantly slow down hair loss by inhibiting the conversion of testosterone into DHT. Finasteride is powerful and works well alongside minoxidil, making it a great addition to your routine if you’re dealing with advanced hair loss.

For those who prefer a drug-free alternative, Revita’s Tablets for Hair Revitalization offer a gentler option with added ingredients that promote hair growth, such as biotin, zinc, and vitamin D. You can even combine these tablets with finasteride if you want to target hair loss from multiple angles.

4. Going the Extra Mile

If you’re committed to leaving no stone unturned in your hair loss battle, you can add low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or microneedling to your routine.

The iRestore Laser Hair Growth System is an excellent choice for LLLT. It’s FDA-cleared and has been shown to stimulate hair follicles, leading to increased hair density. Laser therapy has the advantage of being non-invasive and easy to use at home.

Alternatively, a derma roller can help boost hair growth by promoting scalp circulation and encouraging the body’s natural healing processes. Using a derma roller once a week can complement the other treatments, and it also helps exfoliate the scalp, keeping it healthy.

Why These Products Made Our List

When we selected the products for this list, the primary focus was on scientific validity. Every product mentioned has some level of clinical backing or has been thoroughly tested in the field. We didn’t want to recommend anything that wouldn’t deliver real results.

Each product tackles hair loss from a different angle—whether by blocking DHT, stimulating follicles, or promoting overall scalp health. Combining these treatments allows you to fight hair loss more comprehensively and achieve better, more consistent results.

My Personal Routine

Personally, I’ve found great success using finasteride, Spectral DNC-N, a mix of Revita and Nizoral shampoo, and Revita tablets. Over the last six years, my hair has held steady at a Norwood 2.5 without any further progression of hair loss. In fact, my hairline seems to have thickened slightly, which is an encouraging sign that this combination works for me.

Conclusion

Hair loss can be a frustrating and emotional experience, but with the right treatments, you can take control and start seeing real improvements. Whether you’re just starting to notice thinning or dealing with more advanced hair loss, there’s a solution out there that can help.

Don’t let hair loss dictate your confidence. Start your hair growth journey today by trying one or more of these treatments. Whether you prefer topical solutions, oral medications, or high-tech devices, there’s an option for everyone.

If you’ve had personal experience with any of these products—or if there’s a treatment you swear by that isn’t on our list—feel free to share it in the comments. We’d love to hear about your experiences and help others on their journey to thicker, fuller hair.

And don’t forget to share this article with anyone you know who might be struggling with hair loss. Together, we can all work towards a future of healthier, stronger hair!