Once you start losing your hair, it can feel overwhelming to know what to do. Many products claim to help prevent or even reverse balding, but only your dermatologist has the best options for men and women dealing with hair loss. We got a list of recommendations from our dermatologist, so we could share them with everyone.
Diet Changes
Before going to the dermatologist, you can make a few nutritional changes that could help with hair loss. First, increase your intake of foods that are rich in iron. This includes spinach, lentils, dark chocolate, broccoli, tofu, and beef. Second, make sure you’re getting enough protein. How much protein is enough? Aim for 0.36 grams of protein for each pound you weigh.
Lab Evaluations
Your doctor can order tests to see if your blood has any deficiencies. Ask for lab tests that check CBC, ferritin, ANA, TSH, zinc, vitamin B12, and vitamin D.
Oral Over-the-Counter Options
Hair loss prevention options from your dermatologist may start with over-the-counter supplements. Hair loss can be a sign of vitamin D deficiency, so a daily Vitamin D 1000 IU supplement can be an easy place to start. To help your body absorb the iron you’ve added to your diet, your doctor may recommend a daily vitamin B12 1000 mcg, particularly methylcobalamin, which is better absorbed. A slow release iron 325 mg daily may also be needed; remember to take iron supplements with a glass of orange juice, so the vitamin C can help you absorb it. Always consult your doctor before starting any new vitamin or supplement.
Topical Treatments
Men’s hair loss can be treated with an over-the-counter Rogaine 5% foam or solution. It’s applied once daily and stimulates new hair growth, however you may notice temporary initial shedding as new hairs are growing in. To prevent a sticky feeling, apply the liquid or foam to damp, towel-dried hair and comb it through. Prescription topical treatments include a ketoconazole 2% shampoo to use daily or a compounded finasteride solution.
Oral Prescriptions
Some powerful treatments are available by prescription only. Women have the option of spironolactone if your doctor determines that your hair loss is due to androgenic alopecia. Other oral prescriptions for hair loss include finasteride and dutasteride. Be sure to talk with your doctor about possible side effects.
Elective Procedures
Your dermatologist also may suggest elective procedures that they will perform in their office. One is platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, where the patient’s own blood serum is re-injected into the scalp. This is an ongoing procedure that will need to be repeated to maintain results. Another common procedure is hair transplants, where hair is removed from another part of the scalp, usually the back, and redistributed to the area of hair loss. Both of these procedures are more expensive than other options, but you may want to have a conversation with your doctor to find out more information.