Treatments for Hair Loss in Women

Be sure to read through the treatments discussed for men, as many of those will be appropriate for women. Below are listed some of the most effective treatments for women's hair loss.

Cosmetic treatments are something women know a lot about. Many of us won't leave the house without applying a cosmetic treatment on our faces, but often we don't consider this as a treatment for hair loss. Obviously, cosmetic treatments for hair loss do not change the actual hair loss; they simply change your appearance. No chemical or surgical procedures are used.

Wigs are the most common cosmetic approach to female baldness. Wigs can be made from natural hair and from synthetic hair. Wigs made from natural hair can look better at first, but they do not last as long as synthetic wigs. Synthetic wigs are also easier to maintain.

Natural wigs are significantly less expensive than synthetic at about $150, while synthetic wigs are closer to $1000. Better quality wigs will look natural and inconspicuous. Cheap wigs can be easily spotted and do not have a natural look. Note that you don't want to look as if you have something sitting on your head. It may be worth it to invest in a good wigs.

Extensions and fillers can also be used. Consult your hairdresser or a reputable wig store for more options that may help you to determine if this is the best solution for your hair loss.

Oral treatment for female hair loss can be a viable solution. Antiandrogen therapy is an oral solution used. Aldosterone antagonist is the main ingredient and works by blocking DHT, the male hormone associated with hair loss.

Antiandrogen therapy is best when used shortly after hair loss starts. If this happens then reversal of the hair loss is possible. It is a lifelong commitment, as it needs to be continued for continual results. Also the treatment needs to be continued for about one year before results will be noticeable. This treatment may cause problems with your menstrual cycle. Be sure to consult with your doctor to determine if this is the best hair loss treatment for you.

Topical solutions are popular for the treatment of hair loss. These involve applying a lotion or medication to the scalp as part of a routine.

Natural lotions are a topical solution used in the treatment of hair loss. These have gained much popularity in the east, originating oftentimes in Asia. Based on the belief that serum in excess can cause hair loss, these lotion claim to remove the serum from the scalp. This would then prevent the DHT in the serum from shrinking the hair follicles, which in turn causes hair loss. These lotions tend to cost around $40 a month.

Minoxidil is a topical treatment for hair loss. Minoxidil is applied daily to the scalp. The reason for Minoxidil working is not unknown, except that Minoxidil increases the blood flow to the area. And we know that blood flow is essential to the healthy hair follicle.

Minoxidil does require a commitment. If not used daily, hair loss will continue as it did before treatment. This treatment costs about $50-90 a month.

Although, Minoxidil works best for young men in their 20s who have just started to lose their hair, it does have results for female hair loss as well.

A variety of strengths of this topical treatment are available. The lowest strengths do not require a prescription — 2% solution. Higher strengths do -- %5-%15 solutions. Be sure to consult with your doctor to determine if this is the best hair loss treatment for you and what solution strength would be appropriate for your needs.