According to recent estimates, over 50 million men and 30 million women in the United States are affected by hair loss and thinning hair. Here are some effective options to help promote hair growth for men and women:

Over-the-counter products:

Rogaine is a foam topically applied to scalp and is available without a prescription. Rogaine is the first topical brand FDA-approved to regrow hair in both men and women. When used twice daily, Rogaine foam has shown in clinical studies to regrow hair in 85 percent of patients after four months of regular use. It contains Minoxidil, which works to enlarge shrunken hair follicles and promote healthy hair growth over time. An added benefit is that it goes on easy and dries quickly!

Medications:

Finasteride (Propecia) is a one-a-day pill prescribed by your medical provider for the treatment of male pattern hair loss. Propecia stops the conversion of testosterone into its more potent form, DHT, which is the chief cause of hair loss for men. Propecia is for use by men only and should not be used by women or children.

Micropen Therapy:

Cutting-edge use of the body’s own stem cells, through the Micropen therapy with Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), has been shown to improve hair growth and quality for the long run. PRP is a natural serum derived directly from your own blood cells to initiate regeneration. When used with PRP, the Micropen can stimulate the blood supply and deliver proper nutrients to deprived hair follicles, which can work to restore the hair growth process. Micropen therapy with PRP can be used safely, naturally and effectively in both men and women alike.

Hair Transplant:

For many, hair transplant surgery is the most effective way to treat hair loss. While hair transplant surgery may be more expensive, the overall results are more permanent. Medications and Micropen therapy should be used regularly with transplanted hair to ensure the hair follicle’s longevity.

Recent studies have shown that hair loss can be reversed by combining the use of at home hair growth products with medical office treatments and medications. Results from hair growth products and treatments vary; however, a combination approach is most effective for immediate and long-term results. Consult with your medical provider to ensure that you are a candidate for any of the above treatments.

— By Jill Kandora, PA-C
Cosmetic Dermatology Specialist

Board Certified Physician Assistant Jill Kandora graduated from the University of Michigan with a Bachelor’s Degree in Biopsychology in 2009. She began working in the field of dermatology in 2010 and developed a passion for skin care. In 2014, she graduated from the Physician Assistant program at Quinnipiac University. Trained by Denice Schwind, PA-C, and Dr. Jodie Reinertson of Edmonds Pur Skin Clinic, she has participated in a wide variety of cosmetic dermatology training sessions and specializes in Botox, dermal fillers, laser & Ultherapy treatments.