Everyone who is dealing with any type of hair loss has most likely asked themselves a similar question at some point when they are trying to decide how they plan on dealing with their hair loss. Some people are fine with being bald and will choose to do nothing. Others may find that their level of hair loss does not bother them and as long as they can limit their loss to the stage that they are currently at, that will work for them. At the Toronto Hair Transplant Clinic, we meet with people who are dealing with hair loss and are looking to do something about it.
Treating hair loss is a multi-level approach. Various options need to be considered before deciding how to treat it.
The basics of FUE hair transplants and hair loss medications
FUE (follicular unit extraction) hair transplants offer a permanent hair loss solution that is suitable for both men and women. The procedure works by moving grafts of the patient’s own hair to the areas that are experiencing hair loss. Follicular grafts are harvested one at a time from the donor area and then transplanted to the recipient areas to fill in any areas that are bald or thinning. This is a permanent solution to any hair loss that has already happened. However, it does not stop any future hair loss of the native grafts.
There are only two actual medications that have been proven to be effective for treating hair loss. Minoxidil, most commonly sold as the brand Rogaine, is a liquid formula that is applied directly to the areas of hair loss on the scalp. Minoxidil is effective in reducing miniaturization and restoring hair to its fullest, therefore reducing any thinning hair.
Finasteride is a prescription tablet that is taken orally once per day. Finasteride works to eliminate the DHT in the body that is responsible for the loss of hair through male and female pattern baldness. By eliminating the DHT, you have essentially put the brakes on any future hair loss.
Both medications work by stopping the effects of DHT on the hair follicles in some way. They can slow down all future loss while also stimulating healthier hair growth.
What are the advantages of having a hair transplant?
The best reason to choose an FUE hair transplant over medication is that the results are not only permanent, but it is also the ONLY way to actually get hair back in any areas that are bald. With Propecia or Rogaine, using the medication on a daily basis is mandatory to maintain the results achieved. However, medication is still a good option and, in most cases, it’s a must! We recommend using minoxidil or finasteride as an effective way to stop any future hair loss from progressing further.
What hair loss treatment should you choose?
The best hair loss treatment for you will depend on many factors. These include the cause and stage of hair loss as well as your personal goals and preferences for restoration. Before deciding on any treatment, it is recommended that you visit the Toronto Hair Transplant Clinic. We will assess your suitability for hair transplants, medication, and other hair restoration solutions, and we will provide you with honest advice on how to get the results that you are looking for.
