Hair loss: practical steps to slow it down and get help

Hair loss can feel personal and sudden. By age 50, about half of men and many women notice thinning. The good news: you don’t have to guess what to do next. This page gives clear causes, realistic treatments, and safe ways to get medication or compounding services.

What’s causing your hair to fall out?

Start by identifying the pattern. A receding hairline or crown thinning usually points to hereditary androgenetic alopecia. Diffuse shedding across the scalp often means telogen effluvium, which follows stress, illness, new meds, or sudden weight loss. Patchy bald spots can be alopecia areata, an immune issue. Hormones, thyroid problems, iron deficiency, and some prescription drugs also cause hair loss — so a basic blood workup helps a lot.

If hair loss began after a new medicine, check with your prescriber before stopping it. Some causes are temporary and reversible once the trigger is removed.

Treatments that actually move the needle

Topicals: Minoxidil (Rogaine) is the most common over-the-counter option that supports regrowth for many people. Use it consistently for at least 4–6 months to see results. It won’t fix a complete bald area but can thicken thinning hair.

Oral meds: Finasteride lowers DHT and is effective for many men. It’s prescription-only and has possible sexual side effects for a minority. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should never use it.

Advanced options: PRP (platelet-rich plasma) and low-level laser therapy help some people. Hair transplant surgery is a durable solution if you have stable donor hair and realistic expectations.

Compounded treatments: Some patients benefit from compounded topical combos (like minoxidil plus other agents). Compounded preparations can be useful when standard doses or formulations don’t fit your needs, but make sure the compounding pharmacy follows safety rules and your clinician writes the prescription.

Supplements: Iron, vitamin D, and biotin help only when a deficiency exists. Avoid expensive “miracle” pills without lab evidence you need them.

Safe buying tips: If ordering meds online, choose verified pharmacies, require a prescription for prescription drugs, and avoid sites that sell controlled or risky drugs without a clinician’s review. We have guides on spotting fake pharmacies and getting meds safely.

Practical everyday moves: Eat protein-rich meals, manage stress, avoid harsh styling, and use gentle shampoos. Short-term shedding after a stressor normally improves on its own within 3–6 months.

When to see a pro: Rapid loss, sudden patchy bald spots, pain or redness on the scalp, or hair loss with other symptoms (weight change, fatigue) deserve prompt medical review. A clinician can order labs, review meds, and recommend prescription or procedural options.

If you want tailored options, talk with a dermatologist or a pharmacist experienced in hair compounding. They can help match treatment to the cause and keep you safe while trying to regrow hair.