Available Hair Loss Products?
At the first sign of hair loss, many men rush to the nearest nutritional store or hair product specialty boutique and stock up on products. In hopes of preventing further loss and stimulating growth, men will use anything from dietary supplements to hair creams and specially formulated concoctions.
Indeed, many products can be a good way to help stimulate hair growth and prevent further loss. However, it must be noted that men who wish to reverse the effects of hair loss are probably at a dead end with over-the-counter products, as these are best used as preventative measures. Thought re-growth of lost hair is possible, it usually takes a prescribed medication or topical treatment to reverse the process.
Over the Counter Products
Stimulating hair growth and preventing hair loss can be cheaply and affordably done through over the counter products. Here are the most common hair growth products found in stores:
Shampoos – Special shampoos and conditioners containing vitamins, minerals, and other natural ingredients good for hair growth can be found in most stores. Specially formulated shampoos are also available through salons and special internet stores. Shampoo therapy is designed to protect hair follicles against the effects of DHT, a testosterone-based hormone, which cause hair loss in men.
Vitamins – Vitamins supplements and dietary foods rich in hair growth vitamins can be a good way to stay healthy while stimulating hair growth. Vitamins such as vitamin A, B3, B5, B6, B12, E, biotin, niacin, and inocitol, are best used for hair stimulation. These can help produce lubricating elements in hair glands, stimulate circulation on the scalp, and produce keratin, which is the building block of hair.
Creams and Sprays – Creams and sprays containing vitamins and other elements are developed by dermatologists and available in many stores. These are scalp treatments designed to stimulate hair growth in existing hair follicles and prevent further hair loss. Some topical agents can prevent the effects of DHT on hair follicles and keep them open and growing strong.
Prescription Products
New drugs have been formulated by pharmaceutical companies that can reverse the effects of DHT. Men who are in early stages of genetic pattern baldness can re-stimulate hair follicles that have been shrunk due to sensitivity from DHT. However, those who have experienced prolonged and extensive hair loss may not be good candidates for drug treatment, as hair follicles are less likely to respond to treatment.
Men who have just noticed a receding hairline or thinning hair can benefit tremendously from drug treatments and continue to have a full head of hair. The factor to consider about drug treatments, however, is that the treatment must go on indefinitely to counter the effects of DHT. Once the treatment is stopped, the genetic predisposition for hair loss will take its course.
For many men and women, keeping a full head of hair is important. Though even vitamin therapy can be helpful, it is always recommended to consult a physician before making any major changes in your diet.
