New Delhi — Hair fall continues to be a growing concern for millions, and while a healthy scalp is the bedrock of strong, luscious hair, the underlying causes of hair loss are often complex and multifactorial. In an exclusive interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Viral Desai, a board-certified cosmetic plastic surgeon and hair transplant expert, outlined the leading triggers of hair thinning—and the promising treatments now available to address them.
According to Dr. Desai, who also serves as Medical Director at DHI India, hair loss can stem from stress, genetics, hormonal fluctuations, poor nutrition, certain medications, and even tight hairstyles that exert excessive tension on the scalp.
“The good news,” Dr. Desai noted, “is that targeted treatment options can now address these underlying factors and promote both scalp health and visible hair restoration.”
Here are five clinically backed scalp treatments that can help stop hair fall at its source:
Topical Therapies
Minoxidil: An FDA-approved treatment for androgenetic alopecia (AGA), available in 2% and 5% formulations. It works by prolonging the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle and enhancing hair density.
Topical Finasteride: A less invasive alternative to its oral counterpart, this formulation reduces DHT levels in the scalp and is gaining traction via compounding pharmacies.
Oral Therapies
Finasteride and Dutasteride: Both medications inhibit DHT— a hormone linked to hair follicle shrinkage. Dutasteride is considered more potent and may deliver faster results.
Oral Minoxidil: Though not FDA-approved for hair loss, it has shown considerable success in clinical settings for both men and women.
Hormonal Treatments
Particularly effective for women experiencing hormonal imbalance-related hair loss.
Spironolactone has become a go-to for stabilizing or reversing hair thinning.
Other treatments like flutamide, bicalutamide, and cyproterone acetate are also prescribed, though they carry potential side effects and are used under close medical supervision.
Injectables and Advanced Therapies
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy utilizes the body’s own growth factors to stimulate dormant follicles.
Exosome Therapy is an emerging regenerative solution derived from stem cells, currently being explored for its powerful follicular stimulation potential.
Microneedling, especially when paired with minoxidil or PRP, enhances treatment absorption and collagen stimulation.
Nutritional Supplements
A comprehensive hair regimen often includes biotin, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, keratin, and saw palmetto—each supporting follicular strength and scalp integrity.
While many opt for non-invasive treatments, others consider more permanent solutions such as hair transplant surgery, particularly when other methods plateau. “We often see patients after they’ve tried multiple options,” said Dr. Desai. “Their hair transplant before and after transformation can be remarkable—provided there’s a healthy scalp and realistic expectations.”
Recovery from such procedures has also improved significantly. With proper post-op care, hair transplant recovery now typically involves minimal downtime, allowing patients to return to their routines within days.
Bottom Line: Whether you’re just beginning to notice hair thinning or considering advanced options like hair transplant surgery, understanding the root causes of hair loss is crucial. From medical therapies to modern injectables, there’s a growing arsenal of treatments designed to help you reclaim scalp health and restore confidence.
Consult a certified medical professional to determine the most appropriate approach for your specific hair loss condition.
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