Hair Loss Treatments

• What are the cutting edge treatments for hair loss and is there any hope of an imminent cure for male baldness? Legions of men everywhere certainly hope so! A cure for hair loss would be a goldmine for the company that is the first to market it, and of course, it would be a cause for celebration for men worldwide. Because of this, R&D departments are concentrating on finding the definitive treatment.
• Researchers expect that gene therapy will ultimately yield the cure for hair loss. It is widely believed that within the next ten years, a solution will be found. Currently, the most promising treatments are making the transition from laboratories to clinical trials. So what are the current treatments available for men?
• The most helpful products currently available are Propecia and Rogaine. Minoxidil, which is the key ingredient in Rogaine, improves the flow of blood to the scalp, while Propecia utilizes finasteride in an effort to block the production of DHT, the hormone that is responsible for hair loss. The majority of men use both products simultaneously to increase their chances of stemming and reversing their hair loss. While these remedies usually stop hair loss, they do not usually stimulate the regrowth of hair.

Avodart is an example of an off label treatment option. This powerful drug arrests the production of both kinds of enzymes that are responsible for the creation of DHT. Because Avodart can cause some potentially serious side effects, it should only be used while under the care and guidance of a physician. It is usually not recommended for younger men because possible side effects include diminished libido and ejaculation disorders.

Hair transplant surgery is an effective treatment but it is quite expensive. It is the most effective treatment for hair loss and baldness. It is a very simple procedure; the physician just transplants healthy hair from one part of the scalp to the areas where it is needed. Hair transplants are effective and are best for those for whom Rogaine and Propecia have not been beneficial.

The Hair Max laser comb is another product that is widely advertised. It received approval from the FDA in 2007. Using a laser comb helps to stimulate blood flow to the scalp, working in a manner similar to Minoxidil. While some men report that it has been effective, some researchers have their doubts since the clinical studies included a very small sample size.

Some natural remedies, like Saw Palmetto and Pumpkin Seed Oil, are available, but there is little proof of their effectiveness. These solutions have not been shown to be effective in clinical trials and any perceived improvement from the use of these products is attributed to the placebo effect.

To the relief of men worldwide, a cure for hair loss should be available within our lifetimes. There is an enormous market, and the latest research, particularly in the area of gene therapy, indicates that help is right around the corner. Until that time comes, Rogaine and Propecia are the treatments of choice.