Figuring out ways to preserve your hair can feel like a losing battle when factors like aging, genetics, and hormones can make hair loss seem inevitable. However, an increasing number of people are discovering it doesn't need to be that way. How? By incorporating the best hair loss treatment tailored to their unique situation.
We researched some of the best hair loss treatments and compiled a list of our favorites. Like vitamins or collagen powders, the right hair loss treatment may stop or slow your hair thinning. Keep reading for a rundown of our favorite treatments and how we chose them.
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The Best Hair Loss Treatments - Our Top Picks
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- Best Hair Loss Treatment for Women: Hers
- Best Hair Loss Treatment for Men: Hims
- Best Treatment for Postpartum Hair Loss: Hers
- Best Hair Loss Treatment Medication Over-the-Counter: Biotin Hair Growth Serum
- Best Hair Loss Treatment Medication for Men: Finasteride
Best Hair Loss Treatment for Women - Hers
SPECS
- Active ingredient: 100mg spironolactone
- Type: Pill
- Usage details: 1 pill daily or as directed by your doctor
- Possible side effects: Headache, nausea, lightheadedness, drowsiness, menstrual irregularities
Containing one of the most scientifically researched ingredients on the market, Hers tops our list as the best hair loss treatment for women. Most other treatments fail because the products are used only to address the symptoms of hair loss but neglect to solve their root causes. But the team behind Hers has formulated this RX-only pill to tackle the hormonal imbalances within women that drive pre-menopausal hair loss. Spironolactone, the key ingredient, reduces excessive shedding by fighting androgens (like DHT) that compromise the strength of hair follicles. With nearly 74-percent of women experiencing improvement, it has become a game changer in the fight against premature hair loss.
While other products may contain spironolactone, Hers tops our list as the best for women because of the quality of its ingredients, industry-leading manufacturing process, and convenience. That last factor is extremely important. Most individuals don't want to go through the hassle of getting clinical-grade hair loss treatment. Hers has revolutionized the entire prescription process, allowing you to go from consult to seeing results without ever leaving your home. That being said, you should consult with your doctor before starting this medication as it may come with side effects (headaches, nausea, etc.) like most prescription medications.
What We Like
- Contains spironolactone, a research-backed ingredient
- Simple, convenient prescription process
- Accessible price point
- Convenient pill form
- Unlimited complimentary follow-up consultations
What We Don't Like
- Process can be hard for non-tech-savvy people
- Product customer support is email only
BUY: Hers
Best Hair Loss Treatment for Men - Hims
SPECS
- Active ingredient: Finasteride & Minoxidil (varies)
- Type: Various
- Usage details: Depends on prescribed formulation
- Possible side effects: Rash, depression, sexual complications, chest pain
Multiple factors can cause hair loss in men. As a result, hair loss treatments need to be tailored to address the root causes that are specific to them. We've selected Hims as the best treatment for men looking to reverse the ravages of hair loss. Their range of products uses medications like finasteride and minoxidil, FDA-approved medications that can treat different stages of hair loss and stimulate regrowth. These ingredients are effective because they address the underlying drivers of a compromised hair ecosystem. Our team was impressed by the mountain of clinical data on these ingredients and the results Hims users have experienced.
Another factor that led to our decision is the versatility of this product. Coming in pill, spray, and even gummy form, the team behind Him delivers your treatment in a form that will be most effective for your needs.
What We Like
- Everything takes place remotely, no need to visit an office
- Accessible pricing
- FDA-approved ingredients
- Long track record of results
- Free initial consultation
- Responsive customer support
What We Don't Like
- Can be pricey depending on treatment path
- Sales support is email-only
BUY: Hims
Best Treatment for Postpartum Hair Loss - Hers
SPECS
- Active ingredient: Finasteride, Minoxidil, Spironolactone
- Type (serum, shampoo, etc): Varies (Spray, Pill)
- Usage details: Varies based on physician instructions
- Possible side effects: Lightheadedness, nausea, headaches, breast pain
Postpartum can add a layer of complexity to hair loss, requiring a multi-pronged solution to see results. This is because it's not traditional or permanent hair loss. Instead, doctors refer to it as “excessive shedding” because of a drop in estrogen levels. The Hers team has considered this and crafted a series of medications that can address the underlying causes of both conventional and postpartum hair loss.
Hers is our choice for the best postpartum hair loss treatment because it leverages the power of RX-only medications under the guidance of a physician. FDA-approved ingredients like finasteride, minoxidil, and spironolactone can tackle all stages of hair loss to produce effective results.
What We Like
- Tackles the hormonal factors behind hair loss
- Convenient, online consultations
- Treatments shipped to your door
- Zero-cost physician consultations
What We Don't Like
- Can become expensive
- Customer support is email only
- May be difficult to navigate for non-tech savvy people
BUY: Hers
Best Hair Loss Treatment Medication Over-the-Counter - Biotin Hair Growth Serum
SPECS
- Active ingredient: Biotin, clary oil, cymbopogon citratus extract
- Type: Topical oil
- Usage details: Once daily while showering
- Possible side effects: Skin irritation, rash, itchy scalp
Although prescription-only medications are considered the most effective, specific over-the-counter hair loss treatments also produce positive results. Of all the non-RX treatments we examined, Biotin Hair Growth Serum set itself apart from others in the field. Good for both men and women and all hair types, this product rejuvenates hair follicles, promoting fresh growth and strengthening what's already there.
One thing to keep in mind: The instructions recommend that this treatment be done in the shower. Plan for a few extra minutes to be added to your morning routine.
What We Like
- Topical treatment for all hair types
- Non-oily application
- Accessible pricing
- Does not require a prescription
- Fast shipping
What We Don't Like
- Customer support is hard to reach
- May not be suitable to those with skin conditions
Best Hair Loss Treatment Medication for Men - Finasteride
SPECS
- Active ingredient: Finasteride
- Type: Varies by company
- Usage details: Physician directed
- Possible side effects: Chills, cold sweats, dizziness, lightheadedness
The underlying causes of hair loss in men can majorly impact what kind of treatment is needed. A large segment of men trying to prevent hair loss may need a more potent medication. Of the many medications on the market, Finasteride tops our list of best hair loss treatment medications for men. Especially effective at preventing receding hairlines and male pattern baldness, Finasteride is an FDA-approved, well-researched solution that prevents hair loss and stimulates new growth.
In fact, users witnessed substantial increases in total hair count after prolonged daily use. It accomplishes this by blocking the production of certain hormones that result in hair loss.
What We Like
- Administered under a doctor's supervision
- Science-backed results
- Addresses root causes of hair loss
- Easy to take
What We Don't Like
- Can be expensive
- Process to get prescription medication may be inconvenient and time consuming for some
BUY: Finasteride
How We Chose the Best Hair Loss Treatments
For this roundup, we leveraged our collective expertise in health and wellness to identify the most powerful hair loss treatments on the market. We selected the products in this roundup based on several important criteria, including:
- Formulation: From its ingredients to manufacturing, our team verified each product adheres to elite production and formulation practices. The products featured are free of fillers and delivered with the correct concentration of ingredients to see results.
- Value: Are you getting what you pay for? Our team verifies that the ingredients and results of a product justify its cost. We respect our reader's resources and want to make sure what they get provides maximum value.
- Data: We peeled back the marketing language and took an in-depth look at the data and medical research. Many of the products on this list include FDA-approved medications that come with years of clinical data.
- User results and effectiveness: The greatest barometer of effectiveness is the results previous users have experienced. We took into account which products seemed to generate the most amount of positive results among users.
What Causes Hair Loss in Men?
A lot of factors may contribute to hair loss in men. Genetics and family history may cause certain men to manifest hereditary hair loss. Medications, medical conditions, and stress may affect hormonal balance or produce hair loss as a side effect.
The causes of your specific situation plays a major factor in what treatment will be most effective. For example, topical over-the-counter hair oil treatments may not be effective on hair loss caused by a hormonal imbalance.
What Causes Hair Loss in Women?
Hair loss in women can be a complex combination of over a dozen variables, including hormones, menopause, postpartum and medical treatments. Besides this, chronic stress and disease can also play a part in hair loss. Depending on your situation, consulting a medical specialist may be required for effective treatment.
How to Choose the Best Hair Loss Treatment for You
There are a lot of factors that contribute to a person's hair loss situation. As a result, some hair treatments may not work for everybody. The key is to assess your situation and the root causes of your hair loss to discern the most effective treatment. If you have tried several treatments and seen limited results, it may be a good idea to seek the help of a medical professional for guidance. With that said, let's look at some things to keep in mind.
Types of Hair Loss Treatment
There is a wide range of hair loss treatments available. In addition to surgical solutions like hair plugs and transplants, there are many non-invasive treatments. These treatments can be divided into topical and oral, prescription and over-the-counter. Which treatment is best for you will depend on the underlying causes of your hair loss.
For example, some individuals may simply need an over-the-counter hair oil treatment to stimulate their hair follicles and restart growth. An RX solution may be needed for others with low estrogen levels to address their condition.
Prescription or Over-the-Counter Solutions
Both types of treatments can be effective in addressing hair loss. However, certain underlying causes may not be responsive to over-the-counter solutions. If you aren't getting results from the treatments you've been using, it may be because a prescription medication may be needed.
Scientifically-Backed Hair Loss Treatments
Hair loss treatments are a multi-billion dollar industry. In an attempt to cash in on this industry, many manufacturers will market their products with outlandish claims. It's important to only consider hair loss treatments backed by sound scientific research and clinical data. While user testimonials are positive, they may not be a reliable measure of a product's effectiveness in your situation.
FAQs About Hair Loss Treatments
Can hair thinning be reversed?
This depends on the underlying reasons for hair loss. In most cases, hair thinning can be reversed with the appropriate treatment.
How long does it take to regrow thinning hair?
The hair regrowth rate depends on what is causing your particular hair loss and the type of treatment being used. RX-only medications generally produce the fastest results, with many users seeing regrowth within six to eight weeks.
When should I worry about hair loss?
Hair loss is not isolated to any specific age or stage in life. If you have a genetics or family history prone to hair loss, it would be best to implement preventative measures as soon as possible.
What vitamins help thicken hair?
Results will vary, but research shows that healthy amounts of nutrients such as biotin, vitamin C, vitamin e, vitamin d, iron, and zinc may help facilitate ideal hair growth conditions.
What is the main reason for hair loss in females?
There are many reasons for hair loss in females, though the main cause is attributed to hormonal imbalances due to menopause, low estrogen, and postpartum.
Are all-natural hair loss treatments effective?
All-natural hair loss treatments can be effective in some situations. Many natural ingredients have been shown to stimulate hair follicle activity. However, effectiveness depends on the type of hair loss you are experiencing.
About the Author
David Fang started his career by studying medicine at the State University of New York. Today, he works as a competitive CrossFit athlete, Olympic lifter, and fitness consultant who knows that the key to peak performance starts with rock-solid mental resilience and psychology. David has worked with coaches and athletes from the University of Louisville and Duke University to aid in building a powerful mind-body connection.
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