Do Natural Hair Loss Remedies Have Any Real Relevance?
by Richard Mitchell
The effectiveness of modern hair loss treatments is clear for all to see, but many people simply prefer not to use strong chemicals or non-natural substances.
If you fall into this category, does this mean you'll just have to accept an ever-decreasing head of hair? The answer to this is an unequivocal NO!
Many natural hair loss remedies, both traditional and contemporary, have shown their worth in reducing and reversing hair loss. They are also perceived as being free from side effects and even deliver additional health benefits.
Why then, don't we hear a lot more about these natural hair loss remedies? Simply because claims of cures cannot be made without FDA approval, and obtaining the FDA seal of approval involves lengthy and expensive scientific research that only major companies can afford. Even the biggest companies could not recoup the costs of such a process as no-one can control the rights to common natural substances such as basic foods and vitamins.
The big question however is, do natural hair loss remedies work? Firstly, hair growth at root level is a living part of the body that depends on sound nutrition, just like any other part of the body. The importance of vitamins, minerals and other nutritional elements in maintaining healthy hair cannot be disputed.
Secondly, the role of herbs and plants in treating numerous ailments is receiving increased recognition after years of neglect, and hair loss is no exception. Many herbal remedies for both internal and external use are offering new hope to people suffering from premature hair loss.
Thirdly, traditional hair loss remedies may still have something to offer. Ancient literature and folklore reveal that our ancestors went to great lengths to treat thinning hair. Some of the more acceptable traditional approaches are now being incorporated into many potential treatment regimes.
Other articles in this series tackle each of these areas in much more detail but you can find out more now by visiting the site listed below.
Richard Mitchell is the creator of the www.myhairlossadvisor.com website that provides information and guidance to those suffering from premature hair loss.
richard@myhairlossadvisor.com
Friday, September 23, 2005
Hair Loss-Propecia-Finasteride
How Does Propecia (Finasteride) Help In The Treatment Of Hair Loss?
by: Richard Mitchell
Finasteride was initially marketed to treat prostate conditions under the name Proscar in 5mg pills. It was known to inhibit the formation of DHT, a major contributor to both prostate cancer and male pattern hair loss.
Subsequent research showed that a 1mg daily dose of the same drug was sufficient to control hair loss for 83% of men after two years of treatment. Since 1998 this version has been marketed under the brand name Propecia and it remains the only prescription drug approved by the FDA specifically to treat hair loss. This approval extends only to men's hair loss because of the dangers finasteride presents to unborn male fetuses. Women of child bearing age should therefore consult with their physician before considering the use of this drug.
The main purpose of Propecia is to halt hair loss and maintain what hair coverage is left. It is therefore popular with younger men who want to control hair loss at an early stage. Men of all ages use it in combination with minoxidil to achieve a hair loss strategy that both halts hair loss and encourages new growth.
Propecia works by interfering with the process of androgenetic hair loss which usually follows this process:
High levels of an enzyme known as 5-alpha-reductase occur in cells of the hair follicle.
This enzyme converts testosterone into DHT.
DHT causes miniaturization of robust terminal hairs.
This results in fine, soft vellus hairs that provide limited scalp coverage.
The growth phase gradually shortens until these hairs are lost permanently.
Propecia inhibits the formation of DHT and over a period of several months reduces levels of DHT sufficiently to minimize its effects on the hair follicle.
As with any drug, finasteride can cause side effects to a minority of users. The FDA trials reported a 2% incidence of varying side effects but these tended to lessen as the body adjusted to the drug over a period of months. Although Propecia or cheaper generic versions are easily obtained on the internet it is strongly recommended that you seek the advice of your doctor, at least in the first instance.
You can find out more about Propecia and other hair loss treatments at the site listed below.
Richard Mitchell is the creator of the www.myhairlossadvisor.com website that provides information and guidance to those suffering from premature hair loss.
richard@myhairlossadvisor.com
by: Richard Mitchell
Finasteride was initially marketed to treat prostate conditions under the name Proscar in 5mg pills. It was known to inhibit the formation of DHT, a major contributor to both prostate cancer and male pattern hair loss.
Subsequent research showed that a 1mg daily dose of the same drug was sufficient to control hair loss for 83% of men after two years of treatment. Since 1998 this version has been marketed under the brand name Propecia and it remains the only prescription drug approved by the FDA specifically to treat hair loss. This approval extends only to men's hair loss because of the dangers finasteride presents to unborn male fetuses. Women of child bearing age should therefore consult with their physician before considering the use of this drug.
The main purpose of Propecia is to halt hair loss and maintain what hair coverage is left. It is therefore popular with younger men who want to control hair loss at an early stage. Men of all ages use it in combination with minoxidil to achieve a hair loss strategy that both halts hair loss and encourages new growth.
Propecia works by interfering with the process of androgenetic hair loss which usually follows this process:
High levels of an enzyme known as 5-alpha-reductase occur in cells of the hair follicle.
This enzyme converts testosterone into DHT.
DHT causes miniaturization of robust terminal hairs.
This results in fine, soft vellus hairs that provide limited scalp coverage.
The growth phase gradually shortens until these hairs are lost permanently.
Propecia inhibits the formation of DHT and over a period of several months reduces levels of DHT sufficiently to minimize its effects on the hair follicle.
As with any drug, finasteride can cause side effects to a minority of users. The FDA trials reported a 2% incidence of varying side effects but these tended to lessen as the body adjusted to the drug over a period of months. Although Propecia or cheaper generic versions are easily obtained on the internet it is strongly recommended that you seek the advice of your doctor, at least in the first instance.
You can find out more about Propecia and other hair loss treatments at the site listed below.
Richard Mitchell is the creator of the www.myhairlossadvisor.com website that provides information and guidance to those suffering from premature hair loss.
richard@myhairlossadvisor.com
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