Hair loss or thinning hair affects men and women. Although it’s typically associated more with aging men, hair loss and thinning hair can happen to women and even younger people with certain medical conditions. Some surgical treatments are extremely effective, but also very expensive. Non-surgical treatments are something to consider if you feel that surgical remedies are not your best option. Let’s discuss a few of these non-surgical hair loss solutions.
Topical Treatments
There are a number of topical treatments that can be purchased and applied at home. These often come in a shampoo or foam application. Most of these topical solutions can be purchased over-the-counter (no prescription needed). They must be applied often and properly. Rogaine is one topical product people have become familiar with over the years.
To achieve maximum results using a topical solution, it needs to be applied to the scalp area at least once daily. These products can regrow hair or at least slow the rate of hair loss. It generally will take six months of treatments to prevent further hair loss and to notice hair regrowth.
Oral Medication
There are some oral medications commonly prescribed to treat hair loss. Finasteride is a prescription drug for men taken orally on a daily basis. Most men taking this medicine experience a slowing of hair loss, and some may eventually show new hair growth. It can take a few months to tell whether it’s working and you’ll need to keep taking it to retain any benefits.
There are some side effects, as with most prescription medicines, so be aware of the risks associated with hair loss treatment pills. Always ask your pharmacist or doctor about any concerns with side effects.
Platelet-Rich-Plasma (PRP) Injections
Doctors have learned that the body has the ability to heal itself with its own plasma. This has been very useful for a variety of medical conditions. PRP can also work very well for hair restoration. It’s an effective option to consider.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is delivered via injection into the surface of the scalp. It’s a process that takes about 45 minutes, with minimal discomfort, and there are few risks since the patient’s own plasma is being used. PRP injections are prepared by taking the blood and running it through a centrifuge, which spins the blood tube to separate out the red blood cells from the plasma. The activated platelets are then injected into the scalp at the level of the hair follicle where the thinning is occurring. The plasma works by amplifying the natural growth factors the body uses to heal tissue. Results are seen after a few weeks. Two to three treatments given at 4 week intervals are typically required for maximum results and repeat treatments every couple years may be necessary to maintain growth. At our clinic this procedure is given by Dr. Ruth L. Hillelson, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Visit the Hillelson-Whipple Clinic online or give us a call (804) 290-0060. We understand everyone has individual desired results and individual concerns. We can help you to achieve your hair goals in a safe, discreet and professional setting.