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Hims
- Personalized treatment plan
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- Over 1 million subscribers
BEST OVERALL
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Happy Head
- Customized Rx hair growth treatments
- 100% online, prescribed by dermatologists
- Get 60% off your first order
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Ro
- See results in as little as 3 months
- Prescription-strength treatments
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What are Topical Hair Loss Treatments?
Topical treatments are among the most popular options for those facing hair loss. These treatments are applied directly to the scalp to help stimulate hair growth, reduce hair thinning and potentially prevent further hair loss.
Top hair loss treatment providers, like Hims, use proprietary blends of Rx-quality ingredients that have undergone research studies and show promising results to help combat certain types of hair loss.
These treatments contain ingredients that can help improve blood flow to hair follicles to promote healthier and stronger hair growth, while helping reduce inflammation that might be contributing to hair loss.
Most top providers offer customized treatments that combine Rx-quality ingredients and nutritional supplements to address specific hair loss issues, scalp conditions and male or female pattern hair loss.
Consult a doctor as some treatment types suited for men may not be suitable for women and vice versa.
Topical Solutions for Different Types of Hair Loss
Different types of hair loss require tailored treatments to address the underlying causes and promote healthy regrowth. Understanding the specific condition you’re dealing with can help you and your doctor determine the best topical solution for you.
Here are the most common hair loss issues in men and women that can be treated with prescription-grade or over-the-counter hair loss treatments:
- Male or female pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia)
- Alopecia areata autoimmune condition
- Telogen effluvium due to nutritional deficiencies
- Traction alopecia
- Scalp psoriasis
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100% Online Process & Unlimited Support
Hims: Regrow hair in as few as 3-6 months
On Hims' Website
How to Choose the Best Hair Loss Treatment for You
Finding the right hair loss treatment depends on the type and severity of your hair loss. With so many options available, it’s important to consult your doctor to understand how each treatment works and to determine the best options to treat your condition.
Topical vs. Oral Treatments
Topical treatments are applied directly to the scalp to potentially help treat the affected area.
Oral treatments are taken as pills. Please be aware that they may cause side effects like sexual dysfunction or unwanted hair growth on the face and body.
Topical treatments generally have fewer side effects compared to oral medications.
Prescription Treatments
Prescription treatments with Rx-level medications may be necessary in more severe cases or when over-the-counter options are ineffective.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Options
For those starting their hair loss treatment journey or looking for maintenance options, OTC topical treatments, medicated shampoos and nutritional supplements are available to support overall hair health and strength, though results may vary.
Factors to Consider when Choosing a Hair Loss Treatment
When choosing a hair loss treatment, consider the following factors:
- Severity and type of hair loss: Different therapies are effective for various types of hair loss.
- Convenience: Choose a treatment that fits your lifestyle and routine.
- Side effects: Be aware of potential side effects and weigh them against the benefits.
- Cost: Treatment costs can vary widely, so consider the ones that fit your budget.
- Long-term commitment: Hair loss treatments often require long-term use to maintain results. Also, be sure to follow the medication’s directions, as excessive use could lead to side effects, such as thinning of the skin for some topical treatments.
- Doctor’s advice: Consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment for your condition.
- Research: Read medical studies and consider the size and demographic of the study groups to ensure the treatment’s effectiveness is well-supported.
When to See a Doctor About Hair Loss
Hair loss can be distressing, but not all hair loss requires a doctor’s visit. You may want to consider seeing a doctor if you experience:
- Sudden or rapid hair loss: If you notice a sudden or rapid increase in hair loss, it could be a sign of an underlying health condition.
- Bald patches: The appearance of bald patches may indicate conditions like alopecia areata, which require medical treatment.
- Scalp issues: Persistent itching, redness or scaling on your scalp could signal a skin condition that needs medical attention.
- Hair loss with other symptoms: If your hair loss is accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, or muscle weakness, it might be related to a systemic issue.
- Ineffectiveness of OTC treatments: If over-the-counter treatments don’t show results after several months, a doctor can likely discuss other prescription options with you.
- Emotional distress: If hair loss is causing significant emotional distress or affecting your quality of life, seeking professional help can provide support and treatment options.
Consulting a healthcare professional can help determine the underlying cause of your hair loss and guide you toward the most effective treatment plan.
We earn a commission from partner links displayed on this page, which impacts how and where their offers appear.
100% Online Process & Unlimited Support
Hims: Regrow hair in as few as 3-6 months
On Hims' Website
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