In a study, over 200 people with a family history of hair loss used either a laser hair comb or a fake device that looked like a laser comb. They used their assigned device three times a week for 26 weeks. The researchers noticed that some people who used the real laser device had thicker and fuller hair compared to those who used the fake one. It’s important to remember that not everyone saw hair regrowth with the laser. More research is needed to find out who benefits most from this treatment and whether there are any long-term side effects.
Microneedling
Microneedling involves using a device with tiny needles.
Some studies have shown it can help with hair growth. In one study, men between 20 and 35 with mild or moderate hair loss were given either 5% minoxidil twice a day or minoxidil plus weekly microneedling. After 12 weeks, those who used both had more hair growth. Other studies suggest that combining microneedling with treatments like platelet-rich plasma or corticosteroids can improve hair growth.
You can buy a microneedling device without a prescription, but it’s best to talk to your dermatologist first.
Microneedling can make some conditions worse, and it’s important to use the right device. The devices used for hair loss have longer needles than those used for skin treatments.
Procedures To Help Regrow Hair
While at-home treatments are convenient, procedures done by a board-certified dermatologist are usually more effective.
Your dermatologist might recommend one of the following treatments as part of your plan.
Injections of corticosteroids: A dermatologist may inject this medication into thinning or bald areas to help hair grow.
These injections are often given every 4 to 8 weeks, so you’ll need to visit your dermatologist’s office for treatment. This treatment is especially effective for people with alopecia areata, a condition where hair falls out in patches. In one study of 127 people with this condition, over 80% had at least half their hair regrow within 12 weeks. Also read Hair Loss Treatment in Singapore for more information.
Hair transplant: If you have thinning or balding due to male or female pattern baldness, a hair transplant might be an option.
This can be an effective and lasting solution.
Laser Therapy
If using minoxidil every day or taking medication for hair loss doesn’t appeal to you, laser therapy might be a good choice.
This is also called low-level laser therapy. Some studies suggest it could help with hereditary hair loss, alopecia areata, hair loss from chemotherapy, and help hair grow after a transplant. Laser therapy is safe and painless, but it requires many sessions. You might need several treatments a week for several months to see some hair growth.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
Studies show that PRP can be a safe and effective treatment for hair loss.
This involves drawing a small amount of your blood, separating it into parts, and then injecting the plasma into the thinning areas. The whole process takes about 10 minutes and usually doesn’t require any downtime. You’ll need to return for repeat injections. Most people come once a month for three months and then every three to six months. In the first few months, you may notice you are losing less or even less hair.
Prescription Medication That Can Regrow Hair
Another option is taking prescription medication.
The type of medication your doctor prescribes will depend on your:
– Cause of hair loss
– Overall health
– Age
– Expected results
– Plans for becoming pregnant
All medications carry possible side effects.
Ask your dermatologist about the possible side effects of any medication you take for hair loss.