Alopecia Treatment

If you notice bald patches or thinning hair on your head then you are developing what is medically known as alopecia or hair loss to most of us. Alopecia is not a gender specific condition it affects men and women alike. Today there are solutions and treatments available that will arrest the condition.

For some people who prefer not to take the medication route there is the option of surgery. Before making any decision to combat your hair loss it is imperative that a doctor or medical specialist is consulted and they will be able to provide the best solution on an individual basis.

How well the medications will work depends on the extent of the hair loss as it will be less effective where there has been extensive hair loss.

One such over the counter alopecia treatment is Minoxidil (RoagaineTM). This is approved by the FDA and is a topical solution that is rubbed into the scalp twice a day to prevent future hair loss and stimulate regrowth. It comes in two different options, there's the 2% and 5% solution. When using this solution some people may experience hair loss slow down, while others may see hair loss slow down and also regrowth.

The results are usually seen after around several months of daily use and this will only continue for as long as the solution is used. That is to say, once you stop using the solution your hair loss will revert back to before the treatment was started. For women the 2% solution is recommended and with any medication there can be potential side effects. So it is always recommended before taking any medication to consult with your doctor.

Another alopecia treatment for hair loss that is approved by the FDA is Finasteride (PropeciaTM) However, this is prescription only medication and is taken in a pill form. Many people have seen hair regrowth when using this and this will be seen after around several months. This medication is not recommended or approved for the use by women. As mentioned above always consult your doctor before taking any medication.

With any alopecia treatment or solution there is no guarantee that these medications will work for everyone that takes them. The decision has to be made by the individual as to whether the hair loss is actually worse than the alopecia treatment. It is imperative that a doctor or medical specialist is consulted before taking any medication.