How can I increase hair growth?

Effective Strategies to Increase Hair Growth

Topical minoxidil is the most effective evidence-based treatment for increasing hair growth, with studies showing up to 42.5% increase in total hair weight over a 32-week period compared to 1.9% for placebo. 1

First-Line Treatments

Topical Minoxidil

• FDA-approved for hair regrowth on the top of the scalp (vertex) 2
• Apply twice daily using the dropper applicator to deliver 1mL to the affected areas 2
• Results may take 2-4 months of consistent use to become visible 2
• Available in 5% solution for men and 2% solution for women 2, 1
• Common side effects include scalp irritation and itching 2

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

• Numerous clinical trials show significant increase in hair density after PRP injections 3
• Higher platelet concentrations correlate with greater improvements in hair density and follicle diameter 3
• Microneedling application may be superior to injection technique for delivering PRP 3
• PRP combined with topical minoxidil shows better results than either treatment alone 3

Nutritional Interventions

• Check for and correct deficiencies in thyroid function, vitamin D, zinc, and ferritin levels 3, 4
• Mediterranean diet rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory components may help with hair health 5
• Biotin supplementation (2.5 mg daily) can be considered as supportive treatment 3
• Orthosilicic acid (silicon, 10 mg daily) may provide additional benefit 3

Advanced Options

Combination Therapies

• Topical tretinoin combined with 0.5% minoxidil resulted in terminal hair regrowth in 66% of subjects after 1 year 6
• Tretinoin alone stimulated hair regrowth in approximately 58% of subjects 6
• For androgenetic alopecia, combining PRP with minoxidil shows superior results to either treatment alone 3

For Alopecia Areata

• Intralesional corticosteroids can stimulate hair regrowth at injection sites 3
• Triamcinolone acetonide (5-10 mg/mL) injected just beneath the dermis can produce hair growth in treated areas 3
• 62% of patients achieved full regrowth with monthly injections of triamcinolone acetonide, particularly effective for limited patches 3

Important Considerations

• Rule out underlying medical conditions before starting treatment 4, 7
• Hair loss patterns differ - treatments should target the specific type of hair loss 2
• Avoid using minoxidil if scalp is red, inflamed, infected, or painful 2
• Discontinue treatment if unwanted side effects occur, such as facial hair growth or scalp irritation 2
• For severe or persistent hair loss, consult a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment plan 3

Monitoring Response to Treatment

• Before-and-after photographs provide visual comparison of improvement 3
• Trichoscopy can help identify signs of hair thinning, miniaturization, and presence of vellus hairs 3
• Hair counts and diameter measurements provide objective data on treatment response 3, 1
• Total hair weight from a defined area is recommended as the primary quantitative measure of hair growth 1

Remember that genetic factors play a significant role in hair loss, and treatment outcomes may vary between individuals 3, 5. Consistency in application and patience are essential, as most treatments require several months before visible results appear 2.