Hair Growth Solutions: What Works and What to Try First

Losing hair feels personal. By age 50, about half of people notice some thinning—and that doesn’t mean you have to accept it. There are clear, practical steps you can try now that often make a visible difference without spending a fortune.

Start with a quick check: is your hair loss sudden or gradual? Sudden shedding after illness, major stress, or new medication usually points to telogen effluvium and often recovers within months. Gradual thinning at the crown or hairline is more likely androgenetic hair loss (pattern baldness), which responds best to proven medical options.

Topical and oral treatments that actually help

Minoxidil (OTC foam or liquid) is the easiest first move. Apply consistently—twice a day for the liquid or once a day for some foams—and give it at least 3–6 months before judging results. Expect slowed loss first, then small regrowth. Side effects: scalp irritation or unwanted facial hair in rare cases.

Finasteride is an oral pill for men that blocks DHT, a hormone that shrinks hair follicles. It can stop loss and regrow hair but needs a prescription and 6–12 months to show benefit. Sexual side effects are possible for a small number of users, so talk to your doctor before starting.

For women with hormonal hair loss, spironolactone is often used off-label to reduce androgen effects. It’s prescription-only and can affect potassium levels—don’t mix it with substances or other meds that raise potassium without medical advice. Your clinician will want blood tests and regular follow-up.

Procedures, devices, and everyday care

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, microneedling, and low-level laser devices can boost results, especially when combined with meds. PRP and microneedling work by triggering local healing; lasers increase scalp blood flow. These help some people but expect multiple sessions and variable costs.

Don’t forget basics: check iron, vitamin D, and thyroid levels—deficiencies can cause shedding and are simple to fix. Use gentle shampoos, avoid tight hairstyles, cut back on heat styling, and sleep, eat protein, and manage stress. Supplements like biotin only help if you’re deficient.

When buying meds online, be careful. Use pharmacies that ask for prescriptions, show clear contact info, and have verifiable credentials. If a site offers powerful prescription drugs with no prescription, walk away. Safety matters as much as price.

Track progress with monthly photos under the same light. That’s the fastest way to see small changes over time. If you don’t see improvement after 6–12 months, or if your hair loss is sudden and heavy, see a dermatologist or trichologist. They can order tests, suggest targeted treatments, or discuss hair transplant options when appropriate.

Hair regrowth usually takes patience and a mix of approaches. Pick one or two sensible steps, stick with them, and check in with a clinician before starting prescription treatments or pricey procedures.