Experts suggest that these 5 balding and hair loss treatments can promote a healthy scalp.

Hair loss can be a frustrating byproduct of aging.

According to Cleveland Clinic, approximately 70% of men will experience hair loss as they age, and half of them will experience it by the age of 50.

Genetic factors are responsible for about 80% of male pattern baldness, research indicates.

By age 50, up to 40% of women will experience noticeable hair loss, according to UCLA Health.

Studies have indicated that hair loss may contribute to mental health issues.

A study from 2022 revealed that adults with alopecia areata, an autoimmune disease causing hair loss, were at a higher risk of clinical depression, with a likelihood of up to 38%, according to the National Alopecia Areata Foundation.

Experts suggest that the following five treatments may be beneficial for those seeking to minimize and prevent balding.

1. Minoxidil

Dr. Brendan Camp, a Manhattan-based dermatologist, suggests beginning with over-the-counter topical minoxidil, which is prescription-free.

He informed Planet Chronicle Digital that it is believed to maintain hair in the growing phase, commonly known as anagen.

To prevent unwanted hair growth, Camp advised against dripping the topical form of minoxidil onto the face.

Minoxidil, which is typically used to treat hair loss, can be prescribed off-label for oral use.

According to Camp, while the medicine is typically used to manage high blood pressure, one of its potential drawbacks is hair growth.

Camp stated that Minoxidil is prescribed at low doses to treat hair loss, taking advantage of its side effect to promote hair growth.

2. Oral finasteride

According to Camp, the FDA has approved oral finasteride as a treatment for male androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male pattern baldness.

The doctor explained that finasteride prevents the production of DHT, a hormone that causes hair loss and shrinkage.

Dr. Candace Spann, a Las Vegas dermatologist and the inventor of ReTress, emphasized the significance of using a DHT blocker to enhance blood circulation to the scalp and stimulate hair growth in men.

Spann and Camp's statement that minoxidil and finasteride are effective in treating hair loss was agreed upon by Jimmy C. Sung, MD, a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon and the medical director of Tribeca Aesthetics in New York City.

3. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)

According to Camp, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a medical treatment that involves drawing a patient's blood and spinning it to separate the plasma from the red blood cells in a provider's office.

The plasma, enriched with platelets and "growth factors," is injected into the scalp to enhance hair density and thickness, as stated.

Johns Hopkins Medicine reports that PRP has been used for wound healing in trauma and joint injuries, and is now gaining popularity for addressing male pattern baldness and stimulating the growth of hair transplants.

Experts suggest that results from scalp injections may take six months to become noticeable. However, the procedure is not permanent and additional injections may be required.

Hair transplants are an "excellent solution for hair restoration for patients who are good candidates and seeking long-term solutions," according to Sung.

Some non-transplant patients can benefit from platelet-rich plasma injections, which can improve hair transplant results, according to him.

4. Saw palmetto

A plant-based, over-the-counter supplement, saw palmetto, is an alternative treatment for hair loss.

According to Camp, saw palmetto is believed to decrease the levels of DHT hormone, which is linked to hair loss.

He pointed out that the evidence supporting saw palmetto as an effective hair loss treatment is limited, and OTC supplements are not regulated by the FDA.

The National Institutes of Health published a 2020 study showing a 60% improvement in overall hair quality among hair loss patients who used saw palmetto products.

The research revealed that 27% of participants experienced an increase in total hair count, 83% reported a rise in hair density, and 52% stated that their hair loss had halted.

5. Scalp treatments and vitamin therapy

Spann stated that treating hair loss in both men and women requires a "comprehensive approach," which includes addressing underlying issues such as low vitamin D or scalp inflammation.

Addressing all underlying causes is more complicated when treating female pattern hair loss, as she told Planet Chronicle Digital.

"Improving blood flow to the scalp, reducing scalp inflammation, and addressing any underlying vitamin deficiencies is essential."

Individuals with scalp inflammation or scalp folliculitis should consult a board-certified dermatologist to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.

According to the Valley Skin Institute website, some skin issues can be remedied at home with a warm compress, antibiotic ointment, antihistamines, or an antifungal or anti-dandruff shampoo.

In some cases, however, the condition may require prescription-strength medication.

Correcting iron deficiencies, low iron stores, and low vitamin D levels is also important, according to Spann.

According to Harvard Health, several vitamins and minerals contribute to healthy hair growth.

These include vitamins A, B2, B3, B7, B9, B12, C, D, and E, as well as iron, selenium, and zinc.

"According to the Harvard Health website, consuming enough vitamins and minerals is crucial for preventing and managing hair loss. However, most individuals can meet their nutritional requirements through a balanced diet."

Experts suggest consulting a medical provider for those who have questions about selecting the appropriate hair loss treatment.