Presently, there are two medications that are approved by the FDA for the treatment of hair loss: finasteride (Propecia®) and minoxidil (Rogaine®) . Finasteride is an oral medication that is successful in retarding hair loss in men. In some patients, it will actually thicken the existing hair and regrow hair that has already been lost. Minoxidil is available as a topical solution for use by both men and women, and can also be taken orally (off label). These drugs are most effective in patients who are thinning and not already bald. If successful, they need to be continued indefinitely. Most of the hair regrowth occurs in the back of the head (crown) but improvement also can be seen in the front (hairline) and mid-scalp.
There is also some evidence to suggest that shampoos containing either zinc pyrithione or ketoconozole may be effective in retarding hair loss.
PRP is a concentrated solution of platelets derived from the patient’s own blood which contains high levels of growth factors and cytokines which promote hair growth and reduce hair loss. It is injected directly into the scalp where the platelets become activated and release multiple growth factors including PDGF, TGF, VEGF and interleukin. Since PRP comes from the patient’s own blood the treatments are drug free, there is no chance of allergic reactions and it is completely natural. PRP may also be used during the hair transplant procedure to reduce healing time and enhance hair growth.
Nutrafol is a drug free hair growth supplement that has been effective in improving hair density, hair quality and over all hair health with virtually no side effects. With bio-active antioxidants, anti-stress and anti-inflammatory ingredients Nutrafol is a significant addition to our treatment of thinning hair.
Low level laser light therapy is an FDA cleared treatment for hair loss that works by increasing blood flow to the hair follicles and stimulating the metabolism within the dermal papilla cells which promotes hair growth. These devices are conveniently worn under a hat and are available in our offices.
Scalp micropigmentation is a unique non-surgical technique where bio-absorbable pigment is introduced into the scalp to create the look of thicker fuller hair. It can be used to thicken thinning hair and to camouflage scars. This procedure, which can only be performed by a highly skilled professional, is now available in our office under the supervision of Dr. Cohen.
For the majority of patients with significant hair loss, medical treatment alone is not the answer. But when used in conjunction with hair transplantation, it may further improve the overall results of hair replacement surgery. During your personal consultation, Dr. Cohen will discuss with you whether any of these medical treatments should be added to your treatment plan.
