Two-thirds of American men will experience hair loss by age 35, and the resulting damage to their self-esteem can be devastating, socially and professionally.

Some causes of hair loss are controllable, like diet, hygiene, stress, inadequate sleep and smoking. But the most common cause is genetics: male pattern baldness. In this case, the sex hormone Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) shrinks the hair follicles, resulting in hair loss. Most prescription and over-the-counter hair-loss treatments are designed to block the enzyme that converts testosterone to the more potent DHT.

Fortunately, hair loss can be reversed if its root cause is addressed. There are several ways to block DHT and promote hair growth.

Natural Treatments

Saw palmetto helps stop DHT production to prevent hair loss, especially when combined with pumpkinseed oil. This herb is best used topically, in shampoos, oils or conditioners. My top picks are shampoos made by Pura d'or, HairGenesis and Groganics.

Or try the following blend of essential oils: ten drops rosemary, ten drops lavender, five drops basil and four drops jojoba. Applying this oil mixture to the scalp helps stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth.

Clinical data is limited on these treatments, so consult your primary doctor before using them.

Hair Food

Like the rest of the body, hair needs nutrition to stay healthy. Choose foods rich in biotin, B vitamins, iron and protein (e.g., eggs, peanuts, almonds, salmon, wheat bread, spinach, lentils, avocados). B vitamins boost production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen and nutrients to the scalp and hair follicles.

Hair Hygiene

Follow these tips to keep hair clean and healthy:

1. Gently massage shampoo into the scalp; then rinse, letting the shampoo flow through and from the hair.
2. Wash oily hair frequently.
3. Use conditioner after shampooing, applying to hair away from the scalp.
4. Let hair air-dry.
5. For sun protection, wear a hat or use a leave-in conditioner containing zinc.
6. Use a brush or wide-toothed comb only when styling the hair.

 

Pharmaceutical Treatments

Only two FDA-approved drugs have been clinically proven to treat hair loss: finasteride (Propecia) and minoxidil (Rogaine).

Sold by prescription, Propecia is the first line of attack for treating male-pattern baldness. While it has been shown to lower DHT levels by 60 percent, it also has side effects, particularly erectile dysfunction.

Rogaine, an over-the-counter medication, is usually an add-on treatment. While it’s been proven to slow hair loss and regrow some hair, you must keep applying it to maintain results. Also, the problem tends to worsen for a couple of weeks before it gets better.

The bottom line is, there is something you can do about hair loss.

 

Dr Mahiji is a board certified pharmacist, graduating with a Summa Cum Laude from the prestigious Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health sciences. Dr Mahiji’s goal is to bring awareness of the connection between medications and overall wellness by educating and keeping patients informed about the benefits and potential risk factors of pharmaceuticals and homeopathic products. Dr Mahiji is your next generation contemporary pharmacist connecting pharmaceuticals with overall wellness. For any questions you can email her [email protected] and follow her on Instagram @Drmahiji.