Finding hair loss treatments is tiresome affair. That is not only because it is difficult to treat hair loss but also because most people have misconceptions regarding hair loss and what constitutes treatment for loss of hair. If you want your hair to re-grow, then you should be prepared for digging deep into your pocket because hair transplants can cost as much as $ 9000 and it is not covered by insurance. Hair transplantation is classified as cosmetic surgery and not necessary for maintaining health. Other hair loss treatments can be classified under five general categories: DHT blockers, products that stimulate hair growth, anti-androgens and anti-fungal drugs. DHT blockers, anti-androgens and anti-fungal medications form a part of drug therapy. Products that stimulate hair growth may be conventional drugs or herbal remedies in the form of shampoos, lotions and hair creams. Currently, a FDA approved laser device is also available in the market that targets low level laser energy on the scalp to stimulate hair growth. Anti-fungal drugs are mainly for the use of persons prone to immune mediated skin diseases and AIDS.
Latest research indicates that DHT (dihydrotestosterone) plays a major role in male pattern baldness and most new treatments for hair loss focus on DHT blockers. DHT is a metabolite of the male hormone testosterone and formed mainly in the prostate gland, testes and hair follicles by a reductase enzyme. DHT blockers are used to treat male pattern baldness since it is believed that it is a problem that stems from DHT. Minoxidil, the traditional treatment for loss of hair is typically used for its one side effect of hirsutism (extreme hairiness) and sold as a treatment for male-patterned baldness. Finasteride is meant only for males and women are prescribed this medicine only under strict condition of using birth control.
Most people think that hair loss is mainly a male problem. While many females suffer from hair loss, women hair loss treatments are slightly different from male hair loss treatments. Minoxidil is the preferred treatment for female hair loss and anti-androgens are not prescribed to pregnant women or those planning to conceive. If prescribed it carries a caveat that pregnancy is not allowed because these can lead to birth defects.
The best hair loss treatments are those that provide natural growth. While oral pills and topical applications can stimulate hair growth to an extent, these are time consuming treatments and effective as long as you keep taking them. Hair transplantation is a minor hair surgery that allows hair to re-grow naturally and permanently without fear of further hair loss.
Many spurious hair loss products have appeared in the market. These make tall claims, which are not supported by medical evidence. It is not possible to re-grow hair from dormant hair follicles and any attempt to do that is bound to fail. It is imperative that you make an intelligent choice while choosing hair loss treatments.