Preventing Hair Loss
By age 50, about 50% of men and women experience noticeable hair loss. With countless products and treatments available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right solution. In this blog, we explore effective methods to maintain healthy hair at any age. If you're unsure which strategy suits you best, call our experienced, compounding pharmacists to discuss personalized options.
Understanding Hair Growth: Basics and Strategies
New hair is produced at the base of the follicle, where living cells multiple and form the hair shaft. The hair shaft then pushes upward through the skin, becoming visible as the hair we see. There are many key factors that influence hair growth, including:
hair follicles: small pockets in the skin where the hair grows
hair root: located at the base of the follicle, made up of cells and keratin
blood supply: tiny vessels at the base of the follicle the nourish the root
genetics: determines the maximum hair length and grow rate
hormones: androgens, like testosterone, can influence hair growth
diet: a nutritious diet, filled with protein, is essential for healthy hair
Healthy hair growth requires a steady supply of nutrients and oxygen to hair follicles. Various treatments aim to improve this supply or block dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that negatively affects hair growth by shrinking hair follicles. DHT can bind to hair follicles, causing them to shrink and shorten the hair growth cycle, leading to thinner, more brittle hair that falls out faster.
Prescription Treatments for Hair Loss
Minoxidil (Rogaine): Approved by the FDA in 1988, Minoxidil dilates arteries, enhancing blood flow to hair follicles. It prevents hair loss but doesn't stimulate new hair growth. Recently, low doses of oral Minoxidil, initially for high blood pressure, have been used for hair maintenance. Combining topical Minoxidil with microneedling can stimulate new hair growth in inactive follicles.
Finasteride/Dutasteride: These medications inhibit the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, reducing DHT levels and preventing hair follicle miniaturization. While effective, they can cause side effects like decreased libido and erectile dysfunction. Using the lowest effective dose can minimize risks.
Tadalafil (Cialis): Similar to Minoxidil, Tadalafil increases blood flow to hair follicles, helping preserve hair thickness and slow down hair loss.
BHRT (Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy): BHRT restores hormonal balance in women, particularly estrogen and progesterone, crucial for maintaining the hair growth cycle and preventing hair thinning.
Topical Treatments for Hair Loss
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma): PRP involves applying plasma (extracted from a patient’s blood) to the scalp to encourage hair growth. Combining PRP with microneedling may yield better results.
Caffeine: Caffeine ointment stimulates blood circulation to the scalp, enhancing nutrient delivery to hair follicles and potentially prolonging the hair growth phase.
Ketoconazole: This treatment reduces inflammation, fights scalp fungal infections, and may inhibit DHT production.
Supplements for Hair Growth
SawPalmetto: Found in Nutrafol, Saw Palmetto inhibits 5-alpha-reductase, reducing DHT levels and promoting hair follicle health.
Myoinositol: This supplement improves hormonal balance and protects hair from oxidative stress.
Biotin: Biotin supports keratin production, essential for healthy hair, and strengthens hair follicles, leading to thicker strands.
Vitamins and Minerals: Vitamins A, C, D, E, biotin, zinc, iron, and selenium support hair follicle function and overall scalp health, promoting hair growth and preventing hair loss.
Prevent Hair Loss with Preston’s Compounding
Speak to a pharmacist at Preston’s Pharmacy to create a custom hair solution tailored to your specific goals, health history, gender, and hair status. We combine mechanical, topical, and prescription therapies, along with custom supplements, to support your hair growth journey. Learn more about other factors that may be causing male hair loss, as well as other medications that may work for you. Learn more about hair loss among women, and how treatment differs from men and women.
Preston’s Compounding Pharmacy offers a hair loss spray, designed to prevent hair loss and helps grow new hair thicker and faster. Compounding a variety of options and strengths for your individualized needs, Preston’s hair loss spray can include these ingredients:
Minoxidil: stimulates hair growth from existing hair follicles and prevents further hair loss
Finasteride: prevents testosterone from converting to DHT, which slows hair loss and encourages hair regrowth
Contact Preston's Pharmacy at (571) 341-8787 or email us at wellness@prestonspharmacy.com. Let us help you achieve and maintain healthy, vibrant hair.
