by Medical News Today
Hair loss is a concern for some people. Aging and genetics can both cause hair loss. The underlying cause of hair loss affects what treatments will be most effective.
Eating extra protein
A 2017 study found that several participants experiencing hair loss had low protein and amino acid intakes. Researchers need to carry out additional studies to examine whether nutritional deficiencies do relate to hair loss.
Taking multivitamin supplements
Studies dating back several years suggest vitamins help prevent hair loss.
A review in Dermatology and Therapy examined the role of various vitamins and minerals in preventing hair loss. The role of vitamins and minerals in hair loss remains unclear.
However, vitamin deficiencies may be a risk factor for hair loss. Some vitamins and minerals that may help include:
selenium
vitamin B
zinc
vitamin D
iron
vitamin A
vitamin C
vitamin E
Anyone considering taking a multivitamin supplement should talk to a doctor first. The best products contain all or most of the recommended daily amounts of each vitamin and mineral in a single dose.
Following a Mediterranean diet
A 2017 study in Archives of Dermatological Research found an association between the herbs and vegetables in the Mediterranean diet and a decreased risk of androgenetic alopecia, or pattern baldness, in males.
Trying a scalp massage
A small study in 9 healthy men found that a daily 4-minute scalp massage stimulated hair growth.
These findings are promising. But researchers will need to study larger samples to determine whether scalp massages are helpful for hair loss.
Using coconut oil for damaged hair
A study in 2018 found that coconut oil may help to prevent hair loss due to ultraviolet light damage or grooming habits. However, further research is necessary to confirm this.
Applying coconut oil to the scalp could strengthen hair and avoid loss from damage.
Taking hair loss medication
Several topical medications for preventing hair loss are available over the counter (OTC).
According to a 2019 review of studies, minoxidil is the go-to treatment for androgenetic alopecia in both men and women. Minoxidil is the active ingredient in Rogaine.
The review suggests that doctors sometimes use minoxidil for treating other causes of hair loss, such as from chemotherapy. The authors of the review state that more research into minoxidil could be beneficial.
Finasteride is another medication for hair loss on the scalp.
A study in the Indian Journal of Dermatology found that finasteride was effective for regrowing scalp hair. However, finasteride did not cause hair to regrow in other areas of the body.
Trying low-level light therapy
According to a 2014 study, low-level laser light therapy (LLLT) can increase hair density. This applies to people with chemotherapy-related or genetic hair loss.
Further research is necessary to determine the proper wavelengths and duration of treatment.
