Hair Loss Remedies for Men

Hair loss, also known as alopecia, occurs in up to 50 percent of men. Its causes include stress, medication and genetics. The condition can be treated with topical and oral medications.

Propecia

• Propecia tablets can help men regrow hair, particularly from the top of the head to the mid scalp. It does not help receding hairlines. The drug is taken daily and requires a prescription. It works by reducing dihydrotestosterone (DHT) production. DHT attacks the hair follicle, causing it to die and fall out.

  Potential side effects include a decrease in sexual desire and impotence. The drug is only for men. Pregnant women handling Propecia may endanger their babies.

Rogaine

• Rogaine is an over-the-counter treatment that uses minoxidil to treat hair loss. Apply Rogaine twice daily to the balding area to encourage regrowth. Minoxidil is most effective in the crown area of the scalp and when applied early in the balding process.

Cortisone

• Treatments involving the use of cortisone have also shown some effectiveness in the treatment of hair loss. The most effective cortisone treatments are taken orally as directed by your physician. They can also be applied topically or given in the form of injections to the affected area.