Hair loss treatment: what works and what to try first

Noticed more hair in the shower or a widening part? You’re not alone. Hair loss has many causes and the right treatment depends on which one you have. Below I’ll walk you through simple, proven options, what tests to ask for, timelines you can expect, and when to see a specialist.

Identify the cause — the smart first step

Before buying anything, figure out why you’re losing hair. Common types: androgenetic alopecia (male/female pattern), telogen effluvium (stress, illness, or meds), and alopecia areata (autoimmune). Basic tests that help: TSH (thyroid), ferritin (iron stores — aim for at least ~50 ng/mL for regrowth), CBC, and vitamin D. If you’ve had big stress, a new drug, or new diet changes, mention those to your doctor.

Medical treatments that actually work

Minoxidil (topical) — 5% foam for men, 2% or 5% for women. Apply to the scalp once or twice a day. Expect to wait 3–6 months to see thicker hair; stopping it reverses gains. Side effects: scalp irritation or initial increased shedding for a few weeks.

Finasteride — an oral pill (usually 1 mg daily) for men with male pattern hair loss. It blocks the hormone that shrinks hair follicles. Many men see improvement after 3–6 months. Women of childbearing age should not take finasteride because of pregnancy risks. Possible side effects are uncommon but worth discussing with your doctor.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) — injections from your own blood. Usually done in 3 monthly sessions then maintenance. Some people see thicker hair, especially when combined with minoxidil.

Hair transplant — FUE or FUT are surgical options if you have permanent pattern loss and enough donor hair. Results last, but it’s a bigger decision (cost, recovery, realistic expectations).

Other alternatives include low-level laser therapy devices (caps or combs) and topical anti-inflammatories for certain conditions. Ask a dermatologist which combo suits your pattern.

Supplements — biotin helps only if you have a deficiency. If tests show low iron or vitamin D, supplementing those can help recovery. Avoid taking random “hair growth” stacks without testing first — they often cost money and give little benefit.

Practical timeline and tips: start with testing and a simple plan (minoxidil ± finasteride for men). Give any medical treatment at least 3–6 months before judging results. Keep photos every month to track progress. If you see sudden, patchy loss, or rapid shedding, book a dermatology visit — some causes need fast treatment.

Want help picking next steps? Ask your doctor for those labs and a short trial of a proven treatment. Avoid miracle cures and focus on measurable changes: test results, photos, and how your scalp responds.