Finding more hair in your brush, or noticing a thinning hairline, is frustrating. Hair loss affects both men and women, and the causes are not always the same.
Genetics plays a large part, but hair loss can also come from a medical condition, a nutritional deficiency, stress or a medication. Finding the cause is the first step toward the right treatment.
Why does hair loss happen?
- Genetics. Male and female pattern hair loss are the most common types.
- Hormonal changes. Thyroid disorders, menopause and other hormonal shifts can contribute to thinning.
- Nutritional deficiencies. Too little iron or protein, among other nutrients, can affect hair health.
- Stress or illness. Significant stress, rapid weight loss or illness can cause temporary shedding.
- Medications. Some prescription medicines contribute to hair loss.
Sudden, patchy or unexplained hair loss should be looked at by a healthcare professional.
What treatments actually work?
Minoxidil (Rogaine) is a topical treatment that can slow certain types of hair loss and encourage regrowth. Results take time, often several months, and continued use is generally needed to keep them.
Finasteride (Propecia) is a prescription medication approved for male pattern hair loss. It reduces the formation of a hormone involved in follicle shrinkage. Side effects and pregnancy-related precautions should be discussed with a prescriber.
How well treatment works depends on the cause and on how early it starts.
Do hair growth vitamins help?
Supplements are marketed heavily for hair growth, but they are not a guaranteed answer. If your hair loss is related to a deficiency, correcting it may help. Taking extra biotin or other supplements when your levels are already fine has not been shown to restore hair reliably.
Too much of some nutrients can make hair loss worse or cause other problems, so more is not better.
Finding the right approach
Healthy hair starts with good nutrition, sensible care and an honest look at the underlying cause.
Questions about minoxidil, finasteride or hair supplements? Talk to our pharmacy team. We can explain the options and tell you when it is worth seeing a prescriber.
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This article is for general educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Always talk to your healthcare provider before starting, stopping or changing any medication or supplement.