There are 2 approaches to hair loss by Physicians; Medical Management of hair loss or Surgical Hair Restoration. Some patients may not respond to Medical Management alone, if so, Surgical Hair Restoration is the best option.
At present, there are only 2 FDA approved medicine available for Medical Management of hair loss. Approval of a product by the FDA for treatment of hair loss means that the product has been rigorously tested for safety and efficacy in clinical trials that meet FDA standards for designs of study, number of participants in the trials and statistical analysis of study data
Minoxidil (Rogaine ®) is applied topically to the scalp in 2% or 5% solution. Minoxidil is most effectively used in a treatment program planned and supervised by a physician hair restoration specialist. Rogaine tends to be more effective in women than in men.
Finasteride (Propecia ®) is an orally-administered medication that influences the response of scalp hair follicles to androgenic hormones. Finasteride is available only by prescription to men.
A third drug, dutasteride, is in clinical trials. Similar to finasteride in action, it has been approved in Europe for use in hair restoration. Under the brand name Avodart, dutasteride is approved in the U.S. for treatment of benign prostatic hypertrophy (prostate enlargement) in men.
The most effective use of hair restoration medication is under the supervision of a physician hair restoration specialist.
Platelet Rich Plasma injection is a simple, cost effective and feasible treatment option for androgenic alopecia, with high overall patient satisfaction. Literature review shows limited number of articles on PRP in various indications like androgenic alopecia, healing in chronic ulcers and skin rejuvenation. PRP seems to be rational therapy with science of growth factors in tissue regeneration. Patients suffering from hair loss due to androgenic alopecia and not responding to 6 months treatment with Minoxidil and finasteride were included in a study for PRP injections every 2 weeks for a total of 4 injections. Results show significant reduction of hair loss between first and the fourth injection.
Hair Transplant procedure can to used to restore hair in areas that are thinning or bald, but can also be used to restore eyelashes, eyebrows, facial hair and hair lost due to trauma.
Follicular Unit Extraction: This is a new technique that is more popular recently. This technique requires more skills from a Hair Restoration Specialist than strip harvesting.