Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
For male pattern hair loss, I recommend Finasteride as it is an internationally standardized medication. It is suggested to start with a dosage of 1 milligram per day, as it has shown promising results.
Consistency in taking this medication is crucial for optimal results. It is advised to maintain regular intake for at least 6 months, during which time hair thickness, density, and growth rate typically improve significantly. Generally, noticeable results, averaging around 70-80%, can be seen after 6 months of continuous use.
However, if you are hesitant to start using this medication on your own, it’s advisable to consult a physician to initiate treatment and receive detailed explanations
Finasteride is a medication that slows down hair loss by preventing it from being affected by genetics and hormones. Therefore, when taken, it delays hair loss, aiding in the maintenance of both thinning and receding hairlines.
Based on medical studies, it’s a medication that has shown quite effective results. After taking it for about 6 months, hair tends to become denser and thicker.
Reasons why the medication may not be effective include:
- Inconsistent medication intake.
- Not taking the medication continuously for at least 6 months.
- Unrealistic expectations, as the medication only affects areas with existing hair follicles and strands.
In cases of baldness, where there are no existing hair strands, the medication cannot promote new hair growth. For such cases, if you want to have new hair growth, density, and a youthful appearance, hair transplantation is recommended.
Finasteride works by reducing the production of DHT, a substance that weakens hair roots. When hair roots are weakened, the hair becomes smaller and thinner. Without treatment, the hair roots can be damaged to the point of permanent loss, leading to male pattern hair loss or receding hairlines. Taking the medication restores normal function of male sex hormones without affecting masculinity. Finasteride specifically works on the hair roots.
- Prohibited for use in adolescent females as it may affect pregnancy.
- Prohibited for use in individuals allergic to the medication.
- Caution advised in patients with liver disease.
- Caution advised in men with high PSA levels.
Finasteride is a medication that can be taken long-term without accumulation or disruption of kidney function. Therefore, blood tests are not necessary during the period of medication, except for patients with liver disease or prostate enlargement, where blood tests may be considered by the physician. A potential side effect observed is that among 100 individuals taking the medication, one may experience a temporary decrease in sexual function, which typically resolves upon discontinuation of the medication.
Thinning hair at the front and receding hairlines on the sides in an ‘M’ shape. It is recommended to start with Finasteride as the first option. For those with thinning hair at the front, receding hairlines on the sides in an ‘M’ shape, and some thinning in the middle of the scalp as well, in this case, it is recommended to use Finasteride as the first option, and then consider adding Minoxidil as the second medication.
From studies, Minoxidil has shown good results for middle scalp thinning. However, there are side effects associated with its usage, such as increased body hair on the face, body, arms, and legs, with variations in individuals. For some, if the increase in body hair is minimal, it can be taken alongside Finasteride. However, if there is substantial increase in body hair, it is recommended to take only Finasteride.
Finasteride is a medication that delays hair root degradation. During the period of medication, hair roots become stronger, hair becomes thicker, and grows faster, resulting in an overall denser appearance. Optimal results are typically achieved after taking the medication for more than 6 months. If we have been taking it for a year and are satisfied with the density of our hair, it is recommended to continue taking it, as continuous use is necessary due to the continuous hair root degradation caused by genetic factors.
During the medication period, hair strands are protected, and hair root degradation is slowed down. However, if we stop taking the medication, the hair roots will no longer be protected, and they will gradually weaken. Hair will return to its previous thin state.
There are no side effects from stopping the medication, and it poses no danger. However, stopping the medication will lead to hair root degradation over time without treatment. If we stop the medication for several years, the hair roots may be damaged to the point of permanent loss, resulting in male pattern baldness. Therefore, if there are no side effects from the medication, it is recommended to continue taking it continuously.
The medication for hair loss that causes hair growth on the face and body is Minoxidil. This medication has the advantage of treating thinning hair in the middle of the scalp, making the hair thicker, darker, and stronger. However, one common side effect that many people may not like is increased facial and body hair growth. In cases where there is minimal hair growth, it can be continued in the long term. However, if this side effect is undesirable, one may consider switching to a serum or topical medication containing Minoxidil instead. For men, it is recommended to use a 5% concentration and apply it to the scalp to allow the medication to penetrate the hair roots.
In men, thinning hair can be classified into two types: bald areas and thinning hair.
The first type, bald areas, refers to areas where there is no hair at all, indicating the absence of hair follicles. In these areas, medication cannot stimulate new hair growth. Therefore, if one desires to have new hair in bald areas to boost confidence and achieve a youthful look, hair transplantation is the most effective solution. After transplantation, the hair will naturally grow back, enhancing the youthful appearance and confidence.
The second type involves thinning hair with small, weak hair strands. In these areas, hair follicles still exist but are not as strong as before. Medication works specifically on areas where hair exists, delaying hair loss and thinning.
Consistent daily medication intake is recommended for at least 6 months. If after 6 months you are satisfied with the results, you can continue taking the medication. However, if you want new, denser hair, it may be advisable to consider hair transplantation as well.
Thinning hair due to genetic factors typically progresses gradually over several years, with most noticeable changes occurring after the age of 30. However, for some individuals, thinning hair may be evident as early as their 20s. Therefore, the decision to start medication should not solely depend on age but should consider the degree of thinning and the individual’s preferences. If thinning hair leads to a loss of confidence, one can consult a doctor to start medication for thinning hair at any age.
Some individuals may experience gradual thinning of hair due to genetics, leading to a receding hairline or balding. The duration of medication varies from person to person. For example, some may take it for about 10 years before stopping, while others may continue for up to 20 years. Therefore, doctors cannot specify how many years of medication are required.
Hence, treatment may involve taking medication continuously for several years to delay hair loss and slow down balding. In cases where medication has been taken for many years and there’s a desire to stop, it can be done safely without adverse effects. However, during periods without medication, hair may become thin again, similar to its previous state, and hair roots may deteriorate faster than when on medication.
If you prefer not to take medication. I recommend using minoxidil solution applied to the scalp, nourishing the hair roots with oral vitamin supplements, or considering treatments like autologous hair cell growth factor injections or deep meso hair therapy. These treatments can help strengthen the hair roots, but they cannot fully replace medication-based treatment.
Hair nourishing vitamins can be categorized into two types:
-The first type pertains to individuals who experience certain deficiencies. For example, in cases of anemia caused by iron deficiency, supplementing with iron vitamins can be beneficial. Similarly, for those with low levels of vitamin D, taking vitamin D supplements can help address hair loss.
-The second type includes vitamins that can be taken by anyone, irrespective of any specific deficiency. These include biotin, selenium, and zinc.
A hair root nourishing serum must contain the active ingredient minoxidil to effectively treat hereditary hair thinning. It is recommended to apply it consistently, massaging the scalp daily for more than six months to observe results. The side effects are minimal, with only slight irritation at the application site.
Hair loss and thinning due to hereditary factors arise from internal conditions unique to each individual. Treatment primarily involves oral medications to reduce the hormone DHT, which can damage hair roots. As shampoos do not contain this medication, they are ineffective in addressing this issue.
Dutasteride belongs to the same class of drugs as Finasteride. Some studies suggest that Dutasteride may promote greater hair growth, but it is also more expensive. Therefore, it is recommended for men who are beginning treatment to start with Finasteride. If, after one year of treatment, stronger hair growth is desired, one might consider switching to Dutasteride.