TLDR Minoxidil and Finasteride are the most popular hair loss treatments, with rising interest in other options, and economic or health crises can change what treatments people prefer.
The study analyzed trends in nonsurgical hair loss treatments by comparing Google search data and prescription surveys from ISHRS members. Minoxidil and Finasteride were the most prescribed and searched treatments, with a growing interest in nutritionals, haircare, and LLLT, particularly after regulatory announcements. The COVID-19 pandemic initially decreased interest in hair loss treatments, but it rebounded and surpassed pre-pandemic levels. The study suggests that economic downturns and health crises may shift consumer preferences towards more affordable options and highlights the importance for hair restoration specialists to be aware of online trends to better communicate with patients. It also emphasizes the need for high-quality research on the efficacy of hair loss therapies and for physicians to stay informed to guide patients effectively.
15 citations,
April 2020 in “Journal of Dermatological Treatment” Minoxidil and finasteride work best for hair loss; more research needed.
53 citations,
February 2020 in “Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy” Finasteride and minoxidil work best together for hair loss.
10 citations,
November 2019 in “Journal of Dermatological Treatment” Photobiomodulation helps hair growth safely in men and women, with laser devices working better than LED ones.
15 citations,
October 2017 in “Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy” FDA-cleared devices may help treat hair loss, but more research needed; consult dermatologist before use.
79 citations,
January 2017 in “Dermatology practical & conceptual” Correcting nutrient deficiencies may help with hair loss, but the benefits of supplements without a deficiency are uncertain and could be harmful.
110 citations,
August 2016 in “Drugs” Minoxidil is the only FDA-approved topical drug for treating male or female pattern hair loss, and other medications like finasteride and dutasteride can also increase hair growth.
25 citations,
August 2016 in “Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology” The marine complex supplement significantly improved hair growth in men with thinning hair without adverse effects.
Combining minoxidil with microneedling may be more effective for hair growth than using minoxidil alone.
January 2023 in “Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft” Early diagnosis and personalized treatment are crucial for managing hair loss in children.
1 citations,
October 2022 in “PubMed” Patients generally have positive attitudes towards using topical Minoxidil for hair loss treatment.
1 citations,
October 2020 in “Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology” Using minoxidil and tofacitinib together can effectively treat severe hair loss.
April 2019 in “Zagazig university medical journal” 
1 citations,
February 2019 in “PubMed” Minoxidil is effective in treating various types of hair loss and can improve quality of life, with combination therapies showing increased effectiveness.
14 citations,
January 2015 in “Skin appendage disorders” Minoxidil treatment for hair loss can cause scalp allergy and severe hair loss.
