Having a thick head of hair is a sign of health and youth. Regardless of the reassurances that “bald is sexy” most men would prefer to be sexy with a full head of hair. Around one third of 30 year olds have male-pattern baldness. The percentage jumps to 50% for men in their 50’s.
So what can be done to get back that full head of hair? Several medications are available:
Rogaine (aka Minoxidil)
Rogaine, a cream applied directly to the scalp, can be purchased over the counter at your local drug store. Rogaine is not a quick fix; it can take months before any improvement is noticed. Also, there are mixed reviews as to how effective Rogaine is in treating frontal hair loss.
The key ingredient in Rogaine is Minoxidil, which is clinically tested and approved by the FDA. It inhibits the production of DHT-a hormone that is linked to hair loss.
Finasteride (brand-name is Propecia)
Propecia is one of the most popular treatments for frontal baldness. It boasts quick results; in fact it can begin working within a few days. Not only can Propecia help re-grow lost hair, it can also slow down new hair loss.
Propecia is a once-daily pill prescribed by your doctor. But there can be some side effects including sexual side effects.
Dutasteride (aka Avodart)
Dutasteride is an oral medication approved in 2002 by the FDA. Although the main purpose of the drug is the treatment of non-cancerous prostrate gland enlargement, Dutasteride also shows effectiveness in the treatment of Male Pattern Baldness.