Nonsurgical Therapy for Hair Loss

The 2013 document reviewed nonsurgical treatments for hair loss, highlighting minoxidil, finasteride, dutasteride, and low-level laser therapy. Minoxidil, used topically, increases hair weight and diameter, with 2% and 5% solutions available for men and women. Finasteride, an oral medication, is FDA-approved for male pattern hair loss (MPHL) and has been shown to be effective in a study of 1,553 men, with 51% experiencing hair loss stabilization and 48% regrowth, but it can cause sexual dysfunction. Dutasteride, more potent than finasteride but with a higher risk of sexual side effects and potential concerns about infertility, is used off-label for MPHL and female pattern hair loss (FPHL). A study involving 27 subjects on dutasteride showed decreased sperm counts, with only a 20% improvement after discontinuation. Low-level laser therapy, like the HairMax LaserComb, has been shown to increase hair counts in a study with 123 men. Other therapies such as prostaglandin analogues, mesotherapy, and platelet-rich plasma require more research. The document concludes that while treatments must be ongoing, they can be effective, especially when started early.