Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a common problem for many men, and with appropriate treatment, the symptoms can be managed and improved. Below is a detailed explanation of the points to note for successful AGA treatment.
1. Get diagnosed by a specialist
Accurate diagnosis
Before starting AGA treatment, it is important to have an accurate diagnosis by a specialist. If you start treatment based on your own judgment, not only will it not be effective, but your symptoms may even worsen. The specialist will thoroughly diagnose the progress and cause of the patient’s hair loss and recommend the most suitable treatment.
Continuous follow-up
Regular follow-up is necessary to maximize the effectiveness of treatment. Maintain ongoing communication with your doctor to monitor your treatment progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
2. Selection of appropriate treatment method
Oral medicine
Finasteride (Propecia)
Finasteride slows the progression of AGA by suppressing the production of the hormone DHT (dihydrotestosterone). It is important to use it properly under the guidance of a doctor.
Dutasteride is also effective at inhibiting DHT and may have a stronger effect than finasteride. Consult with your doctor to choose the best medicine.
Topical medicine
Minoxidil (Reup)
Minoxidil stimulates hair follicles and promotes hair growth when applied directly to the scalp. It requires continued use and may take several months to take effect.
Subsidized treatment
PRP therapy
PRP therapy involves injecting platelets extracted from the patient’s own blood into the scalp to stimulate hair growth. This treatment can be more effective when used in combination with oral or topical medications.
Low power laser therapy (LLLT)
A laser device is used to shine a low-power laser beam onto the scalp to stimulate the hair follicles. There are many devices on the market that can be used at home, making it a simple treatment.
3. Improving lifestyle habits
Balanced diet
Importance of nutrition: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals is important to maintain hair health. In particular, B vitamins, vitamin D, iron, and zinc are helpful for hair growth.
Specific foods: Whole grains, lean meats, eggs, nuts, leafy green vegetables, and fish are recommended.
Man lying on bed, sleeping, laptop next to him
Stress management
Stress and AGA: Stress can be a factor that accelerates the progression of AGA. Manage stress by incorporating relaxation techniques and moderate exercise.
Stress Reduction Techniques: Meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and spending time on hobbies and activities can help.
Moderate exercise
Promotes Blood Circulation: Moderate exercise promotes blood circulation, which provides hair follicles with the nutrients they need. Aerobic exercise such as walking, jogging, and cycling is recommended.
Stress Reduction: Exercise is also effective in reducing stress. Maintain your physical and mental health by exercising regularly.
Improved sleep quality
Get enough sleep: Good sleep supports your overall health and promotes hair growth. Get 7-8 hours of sleep every day.
Improving your sleep environment: Improve the quality of your sleep by creating a comfortable sleep environment. Make sure you have a dark, quiet room, the right temperature, and comfortable bedding.
4. Proper scalp care
Choosing the right shampoo
Scalp-friendly shampoo: Choose a shampoo that doesn’t irritate your scalp. Sulfate-free and paraben-free products are recommended.
How to wash your hair: Use the pads of your fingers to gently wash your hair, being careful not to damage your scalp. Avoid excessive washing and wash your hair at a moderate frequency.
Scalp moisturizing and massage
Moisturize: Dry scalp can lead to dandruff and itchiness, which can negatively impact the health of your hair. Keep your scalp healthy by properly moisturizing it.
Massage: Scalp massage increases blood circulation and nourishes the hair follicles. Massage gently with your fingertips for a few minutes every day.
5. Realistic expectations setting
The effectiveness of treatment varies from person to person.
Understanding individual differences: There are individual differences in the effectiveness of AGA treatment. Some people see immediate results, while others take several months. It is important to have realistic expectations and approach treatment with a long-term perspective.
Continuation is the key
Continuous treatment: AGA treatment becomes effective with continuous treatment. It is not just a one-time treatment, but by continuing the treatment, you can suppress the progression of hair thinning and improve it.
6. Consideration of adjunctive treatment
Hair transplant surgery
Natural-looking results: Hair transplant surgery is a method of transplanting your own healthy hair into thinning areas, allowing you to achieve a natural-looking result. Better results can be obtained by using it in conjunction with oral or topical medications.
Other adjunctive treatments
Hair Treatment: To keep your hair healthy, do regular hair treatments. Treatments at specialized salons are also effective.
Nutritional supplements: If needed, consider taking vitamin and mineral supplements. However, you need to be careful about overdosing.
In conclusion
In order for AGA treatment to be successful, it is important to have a specialist’s diagnosis and select the appropriate treatment method. A combination of oral and topical medications, supplementary treatments, and lifestyle changes can effectively manage and improve hair loss. Proper scalp care, realistic expectations setting, and continued treatment are the keys to success. Work closely with your doctor to create a treatment plan that’s best for you and restore healthy hair.
AGA (Androgenetic Alopecia) is a disease called male pattern baldness, which progresses if left untreated, so early treatment is necessary. The causes of AGA vary depending on the individual, but it is not a disease that cannot be treated. Hiro Clinic uses cutting-edge regenerative medicine technology to treat AGA. Our specialized doctors will suggest appropriate treatment methods tailored to each individual and will do their best to support your concerns.
