Treating hair loss...

If the affected region is small, quite often doctors will advise a ‘wait and see’ course of action as with several causes of hair loss the problem often regresses and hair spontaneously grows back.

The effects of hair loss can be distressing. Psychologically the change in body image can have a great impact on the life of a sufferer and as a result much research has gone into the development of many medications for the purpose of minimising hair loss, encouraging regrowth and improving appearance and symptoms of hair loss.

As well as the psychological aspect of hair loss, practically speaking it is important to be aware that thinning or lack of hair means that the scalp burns more easily in the sun.

In cases where there is severe hair loss, suggested treatments might be steroids, other immune modulators, or preparations such as minoxidil (Loniten, Regaine or Rogaine) any of a range of creams or shampoos to apply to the scalp, anthralin cream (Drithocreme, DrithoScalp, Psoriatec) or a combination of treatments.

Minoxidil lotion (Rogaine for men and Rogaine for women)

Minoxidil was originally developed as a treatment for high blood pressure, and hair growth was found to be a side effect. The majority of those who use it find it to have positive results. It is available over the counter and must be used regularly and consistently .

Finisteride (Propecia, Proscar)

A prescribed medicaiton, this is taken in tablet form that partially blocks the effects of the male hormones. It has been shown to halt further hair loss and promote re-growth of the scalp hair in many cases after three to six months.

Plastic Surgery

Hair transplant is where hair is moved surgically from the back of the head where they are less sensitive to the top of the head. To determine whether this procedure is suitable the doctor will take into account age, hair colour, the nature of hair loss, and whether the hair is straight or curly.

Scalp reduction is a technique that is of most use for men with a small, well defined bald spot on the top of the head.

Flap Surgery involves making part of the scalp which still contains hair larger and stretching it over the bald part. This is useful only for small areas.