Hair fall treatment not working, need better options

Question

Been dealing with hair fall for a while now, and it’s honestly getting frustrating. It started about a year ago, and at first, I didn’t think much of it because I assumed it was seasonal or stress-related. But over time, it got worse. I’d see a lot of hair on my pillow, in the shower drain, and even on my desk at work. My scalp has started showing in some areas, and my hair looks way thinner than before. I don’t have a history of baldness in my family, and my diet has been pretty much the same for years, so I’m not sure what’s causing it.

I’ve tried different hair fall treatments, but nothing seems to be working. Started with basic things like using mild shampoos and oiling my scalp regularly with coconut and castor oil, but no real improvement. Then, I tried using hair fall control shampoos from well-known brands, but they made my hair dry and brittle. A dermatologist prescribed a biotin supplement, which I took for about three months, but I didn’t notice any significant changes. I even switched to a sulfate-free shampoo and started using a serum, but my hair still keeps falling out.

A few months ago, I tried an Ayurvedic hair fall treatment, which included herbal oils, amla, and some dietary changes, but I didn’t see much improvement. I also considered PRP treatment, but it’s expensive, and I’m not sure if it’s worth it. I recently read about minoxidil, but I’m hesitant because I’ve heard that if you stop using it, the hair fall comes back. I also don’t want to use something that might have long-term side effects.

What could be causing this hair fall, and what’s the best hair fall treatment for someone who hasn’t responded well to standard options? Are there any specific tests I should get done to find out if it’s related to a deficiency or hormonal issue? Would a dermatologist or a trichologist be better for this? Also, are there any Ayurvedic or natural treatments that have actually worked for people with stubborn hair loss?

Dr. Evgeny Arsentev · Accepted Answer

Your hair fall situation is understandably frustrating, and it's clear that you've already taken several proactive steps to address this issue. Given the longevity and severity of your symptoms, as well as the lack of improvement with various treatments, it would be wise to consider a comprehensive approach. Here’s a structured plan for you to follow:

1. Consider a Medical Evaluation: Since your hair loss has progressed significantly, consulting a dermatologist or a trichologist is essential. A dermatologist specializes in skin and hair disorders, while a trichologist focuses specifically on hair and scalp health. Both can provide valuable insights, but a dermatologist may be better suited if there is a concern about underlying skin conditions.

2. Diagnostic Testing: Request a comprehensive evaluation that may include:
   - Blood Tests: These can check for potential deficiencies (like iron levels, vitamin D, and B12) and hormonal imbalances (such as thyroid function tests).
   - Scalp Examination: A trichoscopy can help assess the hair follicles and potential inflammation or scarring.
   - Biopsy: If there's concern about scarring alopecia or other dermatological conditions, a scalp biopsy might be needed.

3. Evaluate Other Factors: Reflect on other aspects of your health. Stress is a known factor that can contribute to hair loss, but other conditions such as alopecia areata, telogen effluvium, or hormonal changes should be explored. Consider potential lifestyle factors that might be affecting your hair health, including sleeping patterns, stress management practices, and other health conditions.

4. Treatment Options: 
   - Minoxidil: While you mentioned concerns about dependency, minoxidil is one of the more effective topical treatments for androgenetic alopecia and other types. Many patients experience regrowth, and while it's true that results can diminish after stopping, it may still be worth trying under a doctor’s supervision.
   - Oral Medications: In cases where hormonal issues are identified, medications like finasteride (for males) or spironolactone (for females) might be considered. These can help balance hormones affecting hair loss but require a prescription and careful monitoring.
   - Supplements: If deficiencies are identified, targeted supplementation—whether with iron, biotin, or other vitamins—can be beneficial. Discuss the particulars with your healthcare provider regarding the best options for you.

5. Natural Remedies and Ayurvedic Treatments: While there are various natural treatments available, such as:
   - Amla Oil: Known for its potential benefits in promoting hair health, though evidence is anecdotal.
   - Essential Oils: Such as rosemary or lavender, may improve circulation when massaged into the scalp.
   - Dietary Approaches: Ensure your diet includes sufficient proteins and healthy fats, as well as foods rich in vitamins and minerals that support hair health (e.g., nuts, seeds, leafy greens, and fish).

6. Monitoring Progress: Track any changes with a diary or app to record hair loss patterns, product use, and any new treatments. This can aid discussions with your healthcare provider to evaluate what’s working.

7. Follow-Up Care: After initiating any new treatment or evaluation, schedule regular follow-ups to monitor your progress. This can help detect whether your approach is successful or if adjustments are necessary.

8. Long-term Commitment: Keep in mind that many hair restoration strategies require patience and consistent application over several months to evaluate efficacy fully.

It’s crucial to have an informed discussion with your healthcare provider regarding these options, and together you can create a personalized treatment plan based on your specific condition and needs.

Hair fall treatment not working, need better options - #8756

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