If you are experiencing hair loss, it’s important to know that there are several treatment options available. Each comes with its own benefits and potential drawbacks. Understanding them can help you make informed decisions.
Dutasteride
Dutasteride is a prescription medication often used off-label for hair loss. It works by blocking the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone linked to hair follicle miniaturization. However, because it affects hormone levels, it can occasionally have side effects like decreased libido, and breast tenderness.
Spironolactone
Spironolactone is a medication that blocks androgen receptors and reduces the production of androgens like testosterone, which can contribute to hair loss, particularly in women with hormonal imbalances. It is used off-label for female pattern hair loss and can be very effective in slowing or reversing thinning. Benefits include improvement in acne and oily skin as well. Downsides include potential but unusual side effects like dizziness, menstrual irregularities, or breast tenderness. It is not suitable during pregnancy and may require regular blood work to monitor potassium levels. You will start at 50mg daily for a week and if this is well tolerated (no dizziness) you will increase to 100mg daily.
Minoxidil (Topical and Oral)
Minoxidil is a well-known treatment for hair loss and is available in both topical (applied to the scalp) and oral (pill form) versions. Topical minoxidil (usually 2% or 5% helps stimulate hair follicles and is widely used in both men and women. It may occasionally cause scalp irritation or dryness in some users. Oral minoxidil, prescribed off -label, is convenient for those who dislike using topical solutions and may be more effective for some. However, it carries a small risk of systemic side effects such as tachycardia, lower blood pressure, swelling, or unwanted hair growth of the face or body. Because of the potential cardiac side effects, I am reluctant to prescribe the pill form.
Platelet-Derived Growth Factor
Ariessence or platelet derived growth factor is a lab manufactured product that I have used since late 2024. It is injected into the scalp with a tiny needle and is ideally repeated 2 or 3 times at 4-6 week intervals. I have seen fairly dramatic results. These growth factors can stimulate your hair follicles, improve blood flow, and promote healthier hair growth. It is a natural approach using your own body’s healing potential. The downside is that multiple sessions are often required. Results can vary, and it
works best in early stages of hair loss rather than advanced cases.
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy involves drawing a small amount of your blood, processing it to concentrate the growth factors, and injection it into your scalp. These growth factors can stimulate hair follicles, improve blood flow, and promote healthier hair growth. But the process is cumbersome and costly and older patients do not have enough growth factors in their blood to make a significant difference, so I do not provide this.
Laser Caps (Low-Level Laser Therapy)
Laser caps use low-level laser light to stimulate hair follicles and increase blood flow to the scalp, which may encourage hair growth and strengthen existing hair. They are non-invasive, safe and easy to use at home. Many people find them convenient and side effect-free. However, they tend to work best in combination with other therapies and may take several months to show results. A medical grade cap can be ordered through my office.
Final Thoughts
Every patient is unique, and the right treatment-or combination of treatments-depends on your type of hair loss, medical history, and lifestyle. Dr. Blanchet is happy to discuss your choices with you.