Although topical minoxidil, oral finasteride, and low‐level light therapy are the only FDA‐approved therapies to treat AGA, they are just a fraction of the treatment options available, including other oral and topical modalities, hormonal therapies, nutraceuticals, PRP and exosome treatments, and hair transplantation.
Finasteride has been shown to diminish the progression of androgenetic alopecia in males who are treated, and, in many patients, it has stimulated new regrowth. Although it affects vertex balding more than frontal hair loss, the medication has been shown to increase regrowth in the frontal area as well.
The FDA-approved hair loss treatments finasteride and minoxidil topical are often capable of halting and even reversing hair loss when examined over the course of many treatments.
Certain herbs, such as saw palmetto, green tea, and ginseng, have been shown to inhibit the production of androgens and may help to slow the progression of androgenetic alopecia. These herbs can be taken orally in the form of supplements or applied topically to the scalp.
Unfortunately not for most patients. While there is evidence that individuals with telogen effluvium and androgenetic alopecia have lower serum 25 hydroxy-vitamin D levels than controls, replacement of vitamin D is not a significant growth promoter in these patients. Are their exceptions? Yes, but not commonly.
Results: Vitamin D deficiency (<20 ng/ml) was significantly more prevalent in AGA cases (56%) compared to controls (24%) (p<0.001), with an odds ratio of 4.0303. Mean serum vitamin D levels were significantly lower in cases (33.1±10.6 ng/ml) than controls (40.3±9.51 ng/ml) (p=0.0005).
In both reported cases, treatment with 50,000 IU vitamin D3 for 6 weeks and 3 months, respectively, followed by 1,000 IU/daily as a maintenance dose, resulted in noticeable hair regrowth and resolved the deficiency state.
Although topical minoxidil, oral finasteride, and low‐level light therapy are the only FDA‐approved therapies to treat AGA, they are just a fraction of the treatment options available, including other oral and topical modalities, hormonal therapies, nutraceuticals, PRP and exosome treatments, and hair transplantation.
The best natural DHT blockers include green tea, pumpkin seeds, saw palmetto, turmeric, and foods rich in zinc like spinach and oysters. These natural substances inhibit the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, reducing DHT production.
Medications: Over-the-counter (OTC) medications you apply to your scalp, such as minoxidil (Rogaine®), are usually the first course of treatment for male pattern baldness. Some side effects of minoxidil may include headache, scalp irritation and unusual hair growth.
Unfortunately, this hair loss is progressive in nature and can be rapidly accelerated by the use of testosterone or ingestion of other supplemental male hormones.
Unfortunately, it is unlikely that a true and definitive cure for baldness will be commercially available within the decade. However, the good news is that there are many effective treatments that can help curb your alopecia and achieve hair growth.
Although researchers are studying risk factors that may contribute to this condition, most of these factors remain unknown. Researchers have determined that this form of hair loss, particularly in men, is related to hormones called androgens, specifically an androgen called dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
Scalp massages with essential oils, application of onion or garlic juice, and the use of aloe vera gel are among the home remedies that individuals have explored. Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet contributes to overall health, which can positively impact hair growth.
Receding Hairline
The hairline moves back from the forehead. This is a clear stage 3 sign. It changes your facial appearance. The temples are usually the first areas affected.
Nu Shen Zi, also known as Chinese privet fruit, is a popular herb in TCM for promoting hair growth. It is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support overall hair health.
Rosemary Oil: Known for its stimulating properties, rosemary oil has shown promise in promoting hair growth and potentially inhibiting DHT. Nettle Root: This herb has been used for centuries to address various health concerns, including hair loss. Nettle root may help block DHT and improve scalp health.
Bhringraj (Ecliptaelba), commonly known as “false daisy,” grows in moist areas and is packed with the goodness of vitamins, calcium, magnesium, and iron. It is recognized as the “King of hair” due to the immense benefits of the plant extracts for hair nourishment.
The newer oral contraceptives such as Yasmin, Yaz, Desogen, Mircette, Ortho-Cyclen, Ortho Tri-Cyclen and Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo have lower androgenetic effects and are useful in patients concerned about hair loss.
Topical minoxidil and oral finasteride are the only two treatments currently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (USA) for androgenetic alopecia in men. Both of these medications prevent further hair loss but are only able to partially reverse the baldness. Both require continuous use to maintain the effect.
Finasteride works by combatting the effects of DHT upon the hair follicles. In this sense, it is a DHT blocker, however it is not referred to by this name in the medical community. As a treatment for male pattern baldness, finasteride is sold in the form of tablets (either as Propecia or generic finasteride).
In addition, taking a supplement that contains too much vitamin D can be toxic in rare cases. It can lead to hypercalcemia, a condition in which too much calcium builds up in the blood, potentially forming deposits in the arteries or soft tissues. It may also predispose people to painful kidney stones.
With proper treatment and consistent vitamin D supplementation, most people begin to notice improvements within 3-6 months. However, the exact timeline varies depending on the severity of your deficiency, your body's response to treatment, and other factors affecting your hair health.