Thinning hair affects both men and women of all ages, with causes ranging from health issues and diseases to genetics and stress. Many people will experience hair thinning at some point in their life, which can be frustrating. Fortunately, there are numerous treatments available that can improve and sometimes reverse hair thinning.
Overview
Thinning hair, particularly prevalent as a symptom of aging, especially in males, can be a challenging issue to address. While gray hair can be dyed, there is no quick fix for thinning hair. Some people begin to lose hair as they age, while others maintain a full head of hair well into their senior years. Hair loss can also result from underlying illnesses, medication side effects, hormonal changes, weight loss, stress, or nutrient deficiencies. Although hair thinning can happen for various reasons, it is not always irreversible. Advances in science and our understanding of the body have led to the development of effective treatments for thinning hair.
The Specifics
Thinning Hair in Men
Normal hair thinning and hair loss can begin as early as the teenage years but usually become more noticeable with age. While it is commonly considered a side effect of aging, it may not be a permanent condition. Thinning hair is different from balding, which typically follows a genetic pattern on the top, back of the head, or around the crown and temples. If you notice abnormal hair loss patterns, such as clumps or random spots, you may have a condition like alopecia, which affects hair all over the body and causes patchy hair loss. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Thinning Hair in Women
Thinning hair is also common in women, though society often places a higher emphasis on women’s hair as a feature of attractiveness. Underlying medical conditions, hormonal changes after childbirth, and stress can cause hair thinning in women. Like men, women can also experience alopecia or hair loss due to thyroid issues. Abnormal hair loss often indicates an underlying, treatable issue, so visiting a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis is essential.
Thinning Hair Treatments: From Surgeries to Shampoos
Various treatments are available to address thinning hair, including surgical, medicinal, non-surgical, and at-home options. Early treatment can reduce the risk of permanent hair loss. The following lists will help you identify the best options for your situation.
Surgical Options
Strip Harvesting
Strip harvesting involves taking a strip of hair from the back of the head and transplanting individual hair follicles into areas with thinning hair. This procedure, known as follicular unit transplantation (FUT), leaves minimal scarring that existing hair easily covers.
Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)
FUE is a hair transplant surgery that manually extracts hair from individual follicles and implants them into thinning or balding areas. This method is less invasive than strip harvesting and leaves minimal scarring.
Neograft
Neograft combines manual and robotic techniques using a pneumatic-pressure wand for extracting donor hair. The procedure usually takes a full day and requires only local anesthesia, making it less daunting than the time requirement might suggest.
ARTAS Robotic Hair Transplant
Currently FDA-approved for men with dark, straight hair, ARTAS is a fully automated and minimally invasive technique. It uses a robotic arm to remove and transplant hair without requiring the surgical removal of a donor site, speeding up the procedure.
Non-Surgical Options
Scalp Micropigmentation
Scalp micropigmentation creates the illusion of hair by applying pigmented microdots to the skin. This method is similar to tattooing but does not penetrate as deeply. Multiple sessions are usually required, but the results can create a natural-looking effect.
Theradome
Theradome is an FDA-approved at-home treatment that uses laser technology to stimulate blood supply to damaged hair follicles. This process encourages hair growth and increased thickness by reducing hair miniaturization.
Finasteride
Finasteride decreases serum and scalp levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), an androgen responsible for hair follicle miniaturization. This medication can reduce hair loss but may have side effects, such as reduced libido and sexual stamina.
Dutasteride
Dutasteride, primarily used to treat urinary retention issues, also prevents DHT from shrinking hair follicles. This medication is most effective when introduced in the early stages of hair thinning and may be more effective than finasteride.
Tofacitinib
Tofacitinib is FDA-approved for treating rheumatoid arthritis and is undergoing clinical trials for hair loss treatment. It targets Janus Kinase (JAK) enzymes, influencing cellular functions and helping treat hair loss caused by alopecia areata.
Minoxidil
Originally developed to treat high blood pressure, minoxidil is now used to treat hair loss. It works by opening potassium channels in cell membranes, allowing oxygen, blood, and nutrients to reach hair follicles more effectively. Applied topically, it targets hair follicles directly.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
PRP therapy involves drawing the patient’s blood, concentrating the plasma, and re-injecting it into the scalp. PRP has multiple growth factors that promote hair regrowth, and it can be even more effective when combined with hair transplant surgery.
PRP + Nanofat Injections
This procedure combines the patient’s fat and blood. Fat is extracted via liposuction, purified, and mixed with PRP, then injected into the scalp to stimulate hair growth.
PRP + Acell Injections
Acell is a porcine-derived powder with regenerative properties. When mixed with PRP, it creates a serum that helps regrow and thicken hair, and heal damaged hair follicles.
Home Remedies
Diet and Supplements
A nutrient-rich diet with iron, folic acid, omega-3s, and B vitamins can help address thinning hair. Taking a multivitamin can ensure you meet the necessary guidelines. The Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion provides information and tracking tools to help you maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle.
Shampoos
Look for shampoos formulated without added dyes, parabens, and synthetic fragrances, but with thickening ingredients like biotin, peppermint oil, collagen, and amino acids. While it may take time to see results, these ingredients can boost hair volume and make hair appear fuller.
Essential Oils
Though there is limited scientific evidence, some research suggests that oils like peppermint, geranium, and rosemary may help treat thinning hair. Use 100% therapeutic grade oils and test them on a non-visible spot to check for allergic reactions before applying them to the scalp. Castor oil is also touted as a hair-growth oil, though its effectiveness is not scientifically proven.
Hairstyles for Thinning Hair and Embracing Baldness
While some treatments take time to show results, there are ways to make your hair appear fuller in the meantime. Dry shampoo adds volume to hair strands, making them appear fuller. Root concealers or fill-in powders can help conceal thinning areas by adding color.
Choosing the right hairstyle can also help cover thinning hair. Many stylists recommend a bob cut for women with thin hair. Bangs can also conceal thinning areas, and a pixie cut can be a great option depending on your face shape. Adding curls or waves can create movement and volume. Hair extensions may be another option if your hair condition allows for them. Regular trims can keep hair healthy and looking fuller.
For men, keeping hair short can help conceal thinning areas. Styles like buzz cuts, crew cuts, and pompadours can be ideal. Growing facial hair can draw attention away from the head. A professional stylist can help you choose the best style to conceal thinning areas.
The Takeaway
Thinning or balding hair can be frustrating, but it is not always permanent. The methods discussed above can help you achieve the hair you desire. Keep in mind that thinning and balding are often natural parts of aging, particularly for men who start experiencing these changes in their early 30s. Embracing these changes and finding a new style that works for you can be a positive approach.
