Hair loss is a major concern for many men. There have been countless claims of miracle cures that can jump start hair growth immediately. Few of these cures do as they advertise, but there are some solutions that truly improve hair loss.
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5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors
One of the most popular treatments for hair loss is a collection of medications known as 5-alpha reductase inhibitors. These pills stop hair loss by preventing the enzyme known as 5-alpha reductase from converting the hormone testosterone into a hormone called dihydrotestosterone, or DHT. DHT is what causes certain types of hair loss and this treatment stops it. It can even reverse hair loss and allow new hair to start growing. You can find the inhibitors under different names such as finasteride and Propecia. This medication is available by prescription only.
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Minoxidil
Minoxidil is another popular and effective hair loss treatment for men. This substance is a cream applied directly to the scalp. Minoxidil works by causing the blood vessels in the scalp to widen and thus increasing blood flow to the hair follicles and scalp. This results in the growth of new hair. Minoxidil can sometimes cause hair loss although the lost hairs are quickly replaced with new ones. It is available over the counter under various brand names like Rogaine and be performed from from the comfort of your own home.
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Corticosteroid Injections
Corticosteroids are a type of medication that can affect the immune system in the body. They are commonly used to treat many issues like swollen joints. Corticosteroids can stop or reverse some forms of hair loss in men. This is done by injecting the scalp with the corticosteroids a few times a week. Corticosteroids suppress your immune system. This stops your body from attacking the hair follicles so that they remain healthy and strong. This type of treatment needs to be done in a clinical setting by a medical professional. Although corticosteroid injections can be very effective, hair loss will begin again if the treatment is stopped.
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Surgical Hair Restoration
Surgical hair restoration is an option for men who have not found success with other hair growth treatments. This treatment involves removing strips of individual patches of skin containing hair follicles. They are usually taken from areas on the head where hair is still growing naturally. The follicles are then transplanted into the areas suffering from hair loss. The follicles take root and begin to grow normally. This works because some follicles are genetically programmed to grow constantly no matter what. This procedure must be performed by a medical professional, and typically only one treatment is necessary.
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Exercise and Nutrition
Exercise and proper nutrition is a natural way to fight hair loss before it starts. Moderate exercise combined with a nutritious diet can improve your overall health and thus prevent hair loss. Additionally, moderate exercise can reduce the amount of free testosterone in the body so that less can be converted into DHT. However, excessive exercise can actually result in increased hair loss. Stick to moderate exercise in order to keep hair loss at bay. Remember that diet and exercise can prevent, but not reverse, hair loss.
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