Best Methods for Enhancing Hair Growth in Men
Hair loss in men can be caused by both genetics and environmental factors.
Male pattern baldness is an inherited condition known as androgenetic alopecia. It affects more than half of men over the age of 50, according to Medline Plus. Stress, as well as other autoimmune conditions such as alopecia areata, can cause male hair loss.
Hair loss cannot always be avoided, but some treatments and remedies canhelp to slow the process.
Learn which supplements and special tonics have shown some promise in preventing or treating hair loss before you go out and buy them.
Men’s hair loss causes
Men’s hair loss could be caused by:
Genetics and family history: If any of your relatives suffer from hair loss, you are more likely to develop it as well. Male pattern baldness, also known as androgenic alopecia, is a genetic condition in which people gradually lose their hair. This may manifest as a receding hairline or thinning patches on the crown of the head.
Medication side effects: Hair loss can be caused by medical conditions such as hormonal imbalances or autoimmune diseases. Thyroid issues, scalp infections, or trichotillomania (a hair-pulling disorder) can all cause thinning hair or bald patches. Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that occurs when the immune system attacks hair follicles, resulting in bald patches.
Medical treatments and medications: Hair loss is a possible side effect.
Medication alternatives
1. Medication, both prescription and over-the-counter (OTC).
The FDA has approved two medications for the treatment of male pattern baldness:
Minoxidil (Rogaine) (Rogaine). Rogaine is available over the counter as a liquid or foam. Apply it twice daily to the scalp to promote hair growth and prevent hair loss. It can take 4 to 6 months to see results from minoxidil. The outcome is also dependent on proper application and dosage.
Finasteride (Propecia, Proscar) (Propecia, Proscar). Finasteride is a pill that you take daily. It is only available with a doctor’s prescription. According to the FDA, it will take at least three months of daily use to see results from the drug.
It may take up to a year to see results from both minoxidil and finasteride, and you’ll need to keep taking them to maintain the benefits.
Hair transplantation
Follicular unit transplantation and follicular unit extraction are the two most common hair transplant procedures.
Keep in mind that both hair transplant procedures are considered surgery, so they can be costly and uncomfortable.
There are also risks, such as infections and scarring. To achieve the desired result, you may need to undergo multiple hair transplant treatments.
Transplantation of follicular units (FUT)
FUT is the more “traditional” method. It entails removing some skin, usually from the back of your scalp, where there is a lot of hair. The follicles are then removed from the skin by a surgeon. Finally, they reinsert the hair follicles into the scalp area where you’re losing hair.
Extraction of follicular units (FUE)
FUE involves a surgeon removing hair follicles from the scalp and transplanting them to bald areas of the scalp. Direct hair implantation (DHI) is a modified version of this technique in which the procedure is completed using a specialized tool.
Laser therapy
For some types of hair loss, such as alopecia areata, laser treatment is thought to reduce the inflammation in follicles that prevents regrowth. A 2014 review looked at other types of hair loss. According to a reliable source, low-level laser therapy (LLLT) may stimulate hair growth via other mechanisms.
There have been few studies to support the effectiveness of laser hair loss treatments. However, according to a 2016 review trusted Source, LLLT is safe and effective when used to treat male pattern hair loss.
Changes in lifestyle
Give up smoking
You’ve probably heard about all the negative effects smoking has on your lungs if you’re a smoker. But did you know that smoking is linked to hair loss?
A 2020 research study
A study of 1,000 men conducted by Trusted Source discovered that the majority of those who smoked had some degree of hair loss, compared to less than half of those who did not smoke.
Quitting smoking may help reduce hair loss.
5. Massage of the scalp
Massages not only feel great, but they may also help with hair loss. The hair follicles are stimulated by massaging the scalp.
In a small study published in 2016,
Healthy Japanese men who received 4 minutes of scalp massage each day for 24 weeks had thicker hair at the end.
A well-balanced diet
A healthy diet can help keep your hair in good condition. Incorporate a variety of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, unsaturated fats, and lean proteins into your diet. Limit your consumption of sweets.
A look ahead to 2019.
Certain vitamins and minerals found in food have been linked to healthy hair, according to a reliable source. Try including these:
foods high in iron, such as lean beef, beans, green leafy vegetables, iron-fortified grains, and eggs
Omega-3 fatty acid-rich foods include salmon, mackerel, tuna, flax seeds, egg yolks, hemp seeds, and walnuts.
foods high in protein, such as eggs, lean meats, and seafood
Finally, make sure you’re drinking plenty of water.
7. Decrease stress
Stress can be extremely damaging to the body, including the hair. A stressful lifestyle may cause hair loss.
Stress-reduction techniques include:
listening to music while exercising regularly
Yoga practice,
meditation,
and adequate sleep
Methods to Prevent Hair Loss
If you’ve noticed thinning hair or have a family history of male pattern baldness, you might not be able to completely stop your hair loss. You may still be able to slow or prevent some hair loss.
Try the following tips to help prevent male hair loss:
Find ways to reduce your stress.
Maintain your overall health by eating well and exercising regularly.
Hairstyles that tug and pull on your hair should be avoided.
To prevent hair loss, use hair products.
Smoking should be avoided.
Attempt scalp massages.
Consult your doctor to see if any medications or medical conditions are contributing to your hair loss.
