New-Generation Therapies for the Treatment of Hair Loss in Men

The document from 2018 discusses the genetic basis of androgenetic alopecia (AGA) in men and the limitations of FDA-approved treatments like minoxidil and finasteride. It introduces new-generation therapies such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP), injectable cytokines, low-level laser therapy (LLLT), nutraceuticals, scalp microneedling, and energy-based devices, which target multiple pathways of hair biology. PRP showed increased hair count and thickness in a study of 177 patients, while injectable cytokines and LLLT also demonstrated positive results. Nutraceuticals like Viviscal and Nutrafol have shown potential in promoting hair growth. A 12-week study involving 100 patients found that microneedling combined with minoxidil resulted in a higher mean hair count compared to minoxidil alone. A case series with 4 men indicated high satisfaction with microneedling combined with finasteride and minoxidil, with results maintained at 18 months. However, more research is needed to confirm the safety and efficacy of these treatments and to establish standardized protocols. Combination therapies are being explored for potential synergistic effects.