Hair loss and baldness are extremely stressful afflictions for men of any age. There is no one-size-fits-all hair loss solution that works for everyone. However, this article discusses some of the ways for hair loss prevention that are currently available, and how they may be beneficial for you.
The Hair Loss Prevention
Preventing baldness before it starts undoubtedly sounds like the perfect hair loss solution but, unfortunately, not all types of hair loss can be prevented. Preventable types of hair loss are those that may be caused by such factors as:
- stress
- certain types of medicine
- lack of protein or iron
- hair-styling
However, the most common type of hair loss, pattern baldness, is genetic and cannot be prevented.
Although genetic hair loss cannot be prevented entirely, early intervention with medical therapy is a smart step. Two medications that have been FDA-approved for the treatment of male pattern baldness are Propecia and Rogaine ; Propecia is a pill that is taken daily while Rogaine is available as liquid or mousse and is applied topically. Both products work to slow or stop hair loss and work best on men under age forty who are early on in their hair loss progression.
Hair Loss Shampoo
Certain shampoos may serve as useful hair loss solutions. Nizoral is one well-known shampoo, originally sold for its anti-dandruff properties. However, Nizoral’s active ingredient, ketoconazole, may be beneficial to men experiencing hair loss. One study found that Nizoral increased hair density as well as the size and proportion of anagen follicles. Nizoral shampoo can be used 1-3 times per week.
Another successful hair loss shampoo is that in the Hair Cycle line of products Hair Cycle Shampoo is physician-formulated and indicated for everyday use. This shampoo is made of all-natural ingredients and therefore extremely gentle to the hair and scalp. Hair Cycle Shampoo eliminates sebum build-up in the hair follicle while infusing the scalp with biotin and essential proteins. This shampoo also contains DHT-inhibitors which fight hair loss.
Vitamins for Hair Loss
Although vitamins cannot be touted as stand-alone hair loss solutions, certain vitamins may be beneficial to individuals suffering from hair loss. The following is a list of vitamins/supplements and their potential benefits:
- B Vitamins (particularly B3, B5, B6) – important for hair growth
- Biotin – important for hair health
- Essential fatty acids (i.e. flaxseed oil, primrose oil, and salmon oil) – improve hair texture and prevent dry, brittle hair
- Inositol – useful for hair growth
- Raw thymus glandular – stimulates immune and gland function
- Vitamin C – improves scalp circulation
- Vitamin E – improves scalp circulation, enhances immune function and improves hair health and growth
- Zinc – stimulates hair growth by enhancing immune function
Hair Restoration Surgery
The only permanent hair loss solution is hair restoration surgery. This involves the transfer of hair follicles from permanent zones, of the scalp or body, to thinning or balding areas (the recipient site). Hair on the back and sides of the head is said to be donor dominant, meaning that it will continue to grow throughout the life of most men. This hair can be safely transplanted and will continue to grow as if it were native to the recipient area. Hair restoration surgery can be a great hair loss solution for some men but, because the results are permanent, it is something that should be researched and considered thoroughly before jumping in.
