Hair regrowth: what actually works and what to try first

Hair loss feels personal and urgent — you want clear steps, not wishful thinking. Roughly half of men and about a third of women notice visible thinning by middle age. The good news: some tested options can slow loss and help regrow hair, especially if you start early. Below I’ll walk you through the real choices, timelines, and what to watch for.

Medical treatments that deliver results

Minoxidil (topical) is the most common starting point. Use a 5% solution for men and either 2% or 5% for women, applied to the scalp once or twice daily as directed. It takes 3–6 months to see thicker hairs and up to a year for clear improvement. Stopping it brings hair back to baseline in months, so it’s a long-term commitment.

Finasteride is an oral drug for men with androgenetic (male-pattern) hair loss. Typical dose is 1 mg daily and many men see slower loss and some regrowth after 3–6 months. Be aware of possible sexual side effects and that it’s not safe for women who can become pregnant.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections and microneedling are clinic options to boost regrowth. PRP usually involves 3 monthly sessions, then maintenance every 4–6 months. Microneedling creates tiny channels that help topical treatments absorb better — clinics often combine both. Results vary by person, and these cost more than OTC options.

Hair transplant surgery is a permanent option when enough donor hair exists. Modern techniques (FUE/FUT) give natural results, but recovery and cost are factors to weigh. Talk to a reputable surgeon and request before/after photos from real patients.

Practical lifestyle changes and checks

Check for reversible causes first: low iron, low vitamin D, thyroid problems, or recent major stress can cause telogen effluvium — temporary shedding that often reverses in months once the trigger is treated. Ask your doctor for simple blood tests.

Eat enough protein, iron-rich foods, and get vitamin D checked. Supplements like biotin only help when you have a deficiency; they won’t magically regrow hair if your levels are normal.

Be gentle with your hair. Avoid tight ponytails, frequent heat styling, and harsh chemical treatments. Choose low-tension styles and use a wide-tooth comb. Scalp massage for a few minutes a day can help blood flow and feels good.

Low-level laser therapy (caps or combs) can help some people when used consistently for months. It’s safe but requires patience and regular use.

When should you see a specialist? If you have sudden rapid shedding, patchy bald spots, scarring, or a family history of early baldness, book a dermatologist consult. They’ll diagnose the cause and recommend a plan — often a mix of medical treatment, lifestyle fixes, and, when needed, clinic procedures.

Hair regrowth takes time. Pick one evidence-based step, stick with it for at least 4–6 months, and track photos every month. If progress stalls, talk to a dermatologist about next steps. Small, steady changes beat quick fixes every time.