This hair loss product, meant for women, is a synthetic form of Progesterone, a hormone and steroid that occurs naturally in the ovaries. The body uses the Progesterone treatment to control a variety of functions. These include the regulating of the menstrual cycles, anticancer properties, the slowing and prevention of bone loss and ensuring the female sexual organs’ health. Another important function of Progesterone is to maintain the hormone balance of estrogen.
But in regards to hair loss, Progesterone treatment is an effective DHT-inhibitor. However, there has not been much research conducted as to Progesterone’s impact to male and female pattern baldness (MPB, FPB). What research was conducted showed that it may be effective at stopping hair loss, but not at hair regrowth.
Nevertheless, topical Progesterone has been used by some European dermatologists in Europe to treat MPB and FPB. For this, they only used 1% or 2% topical concentrations, and no more than 40mg a day. Researchers believe that higher doses could cause menstrual irregularities.
Topical Progesterone is available as capsules, vaginal creams and suppositories. Patients use the medication by rubbing it into the body’s soft areas, such as the breast, abdomen, inner thighs and the palms of the hands (which is thought to be the most effective area).
It’s advised that women use about 1/8-1/2 teaspoon, once to twice daily, for 21days. Physicians also advise women to stop using the medication for 5-7 days each month. They also advise women to change the application areas periodically.
Currently the only solution for regrowing hair, particularly in the hairline area, is hair transplant surgery, an advanced surgical hair restoration technique.
Done right, a hair transplant is so natural that even a hair stylist cannot detect that a person has had hair transplants.
The days of the "corn row" or "Barbie Doll" hair transplants are long gone.
To achieve such truly natural results requires a dedicated and highly skilled staff doing a state of the art hair transplant procedure. The state of the art micro hair transplant procedure that our member physicians perform is called "Ultra Refined Follicular Unit Hair Transplantation".
Hair transplant surgery involves relocating (transplanting) the bald resistant hair follicles from the back of the head to the balding areas on the top and front of the head.
This process is effective and will last a lifetime because the hair follicles taken from the back of the head are genetically resistant to baldness, no matter where they are transplanted.
This procedure is regarded by most hair restoration physicians to be the "gold standard in hair transplants". Learn more about this hair transplant procedure.
Because this very refined procedure is difficult to perform at the highest quality level only a minority of all hair restoration surgeons perform it successfully. Our member physicians have extensive experience performing this advanced and very refined procedure with excellent proven results.
Today, hair transplant surgical hair restoration is an out-patient procedure requiring only local anesthesia. Most patients are surprised by how little discomfort they experience during and after their surgery. Many patients watch TV or sleep during their procedure.
Hair transplant surgery is the only certain way of restoring significant amounts of hair in balding areas. View hair transplant photos of actual hair loss patients.
Sharing information in the Hair Loss Learning Center forum with patients who have successfully restored their hair is a good way to begin the process of selecting a hair transplant surgeon with a proven record of restoring a natural hairline. Online consultation can put you directly in touch with one of the world's top hair restoration physicians in your area who can help you assess your options.
Birth control pills can be a great way of preventing conception however;all medication comes with potential side effects. In addition to the many serious possible side effects associated with birth control pills, some come with a risk of female hair loss. By suppressing ovulation due to the combined actions of hormones progestin or estrogen, women who are predisposed to hormonal related hair loss may experience varying degrees of balding while on the pill, or even more likely, a few weeks to months after coming off of it.
Yasmin is a birth control pill that combine sethinyl estradiol and drospirenone Because Yasmin may induce hair follicles into the telogen phase (hair shedding) of the hair growth cycle, hair loss is a reported side effect
We recommend women to use only low-androgenindex birth control pills. For women with a strong predisposition for genetic hair lossin their family, we recommend use of other non-hormonal birth control pills or other forms of contraceptives for the prevention of conception.
For your reference, here is a list of birth control pills ranging from the lowest androgen index to the highest: Desogen,Ortho-Cept, Ortho-Cyclen, Ortho Tri-Cyclen, Micronor, Nor-Q D, Ovcon-35,Brevicon/Modicon, Ortho Norvum 7/7/7, Ortho Novum 10-11, Tri-Norinyl, Norinyland Ortho 1/35, Demulen 1/35, Triphasil/Tri-Levien, Nordette, Lo/Ovral,Ovrette, Ovral, Loestrin1/20, Loestrin 1.5/30.
Many popular hair loss treatment options today such as Provillus, Procerin, and Avacor contain the “active” ingredient saw palmetto. It can also be purchased as a standalone supplement in most nutritional stores. But the age old question of whether or not it can effectively treat baldness in men and women with alopecia is still heavily debated. By taking a look at the scientific evidence available we are able to draw some conclusions as to its potential benefit for those with thinning hair.
Saw Palmetto berries are a deep red fruit that grow wild on palm trees in warmer climates, typically found in the Southeastern United States. The liposerolic berry extract is typically used as an herbal supplement for the promotion of a healthy prostate.
Similarly to finasteride (the active ingredient in Propecia and Proscar), studies have shown that when taken orally, it may be an effective anti-androgen by lowering dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels in the body by blocking 5 alpha-reductase enzymes. Additionally it is said to block receptor cites on cells which is required for cells to absorb DHT.
Tests have also been performed on its use in the treatment of benign prostatic disease, which similarly to androgenic alopecia, depends on the production of DHT.
It is also noteworthy to state that a small preliminary study in 2002 was performed as reported by The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine(2002;8:143-52) that shows a select group of 19 men between the ages of 23 and 64 taking either (400mg of saw palmetto and 100mg of Beta-sitosterol) or a placebo orally. Those who took the herbal combination had 60% improved hair growth over those who took the placebo. There have been no studies to date indicating the efficacy of saw palmetto applied topically for male pattern baldness, female hair loss, or anything to date.
In our opinion, there are two potential difficulties with this study:
But if there are no current standards on dosages of herbal medications in the United States, how do these popular hair loss treatments produce an appropriate dosage?
Clinical studies on Benign Prostrate Hyperplasia (BPH) have used a dosage of 320mg of the berry extract daily (either one 320mg pill or 2 X 160 mg pill). A daily dosage of 480 mg of saw palmetto berry extract was not found to be any more effective in a six-month study. If the entire berry was used, up to 1000mg or 2000mg would be required to reach the same goal.
The theory therefore is that if saw palmetto can successfully treat an enlarged prostate similarly to finasteride, it can effectively treat hair loss with a similar dosage Many popular “baldness cure” products contain approximately 1500mg of the berry which is equivalent to approximately 240-320mg of the berry extract.
One false assumption is that “all natural” treatments don’t have potential side effects. It is stated that use of saw palmetto has not proven to be safe for women with hair loss during pregnancy and lactation. Medical supervision is suggested for women of childbearing age. Similar warnings are listed about Propecia.
Based on some anecdotal evidence, saw palmetto is said to treat baldness because of its tendency to act like finasteride by helping those suffering from BPH. However, authentic clinical studies have not been performed to date that support this claim. Dosage and how it should be used (orally or topically) therefore is based on conjecture rather that scientific evidence.
Long ago, a full head of hair was valued as a means of protection, heat retention, and camouflage.
Today we value hair for other reasons. Whether we admit it or not, good hair still is associated with power, virility and youth.
Such associations date back to ancient times. Remember the story of Samson and Delilah? When Delilah cut Samson’s long hair he lost his power.
"And Delilah made him sleep on her knees; and she called for a man, and she caused him to shave off the seven locks of Samson’s head. . . and his strength went from him."(Judges 16:19)
As “enlightened” as we are today, stereotypes associated with hair loss persist. The bald or balding are sometimes passed over and teased at work, in the media, and in the social scene. The media idolizes the young and the attractive and often lampoons the bald or balding.Of course, it’s not fair. But at least losing your hair is not health threatening. However, it can result in various psychological and emotional issues. These include insecurity, isolation, panic, a sense of loss, and even depression. But let’s first look at the role of hair (and the lack of it) in our society.How is Hair Loss seen by Society? So why does something as superficial as hair seem so important to so many men and women? Studies have shown that hair is a symbol of social, professional, cultural, and/or religious affiliations. Good hair implies power, virility, strength and youth.
Studies reveal how baldness is perceived.In a study done in 1971, a picture of one person was distributed to 60 people. But each picture had been altered by a commercial artist to reflect a non bald, balding, or bald condition. The results revealed some negative stereotypes.
When the person was shown with a balding head of hair he was rated as weak, dull, and inactive. This same person with a bald head of hair was rated as unkind, bad, and ugly. Yet this same person with a full head of hair was rated as handsome, virile, strong, active, and sharp.
Today, more than 30 years later, it is hard to know if things have really changed. But maybe some of these tired negative stereotypes about being bald are starting to change, at least in the media.
Today, bald NYPD Blue's -Dennis Franz, a multiple Emmy Award-winner, is considered a sex symbol.
As is Tony Soprano of the popular HBO TV show the Sopranos.
And, of course, let’s not forget Telly Savalas of the 70’s TV show Kojak who was once voted by People magazine as the “sexiest man alive.”
Studies about Baldness and Self Esteem
Those who are bald or balding are generally thought of as older, weaker, and more ineffectual, both in the work world and on the social scene.
According to a 1995 article in the “British Journal of Psychology,” balding men have been found to have lower levels of self-esteem than their peers, are less sociable, suffer more from depression,and are less likely to succeed in life.
Hair loss, especially when first occurring, can lead to rash decisions. So it is important to slow down and look at the many viable options that are available for dealing successfully with hair loss.
Our Hair Treatments section offers in-depth information on many viable treatments.
1992, researchers from the Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia surveyed 145 balding men and found that 84% were preoccupied with baldness.
Their responses showed that they were filled with self-consciousness and helplessness. They were also envious of men with full heads of hair.
Additional research indicated that single men and woman who had begun losing hair in their early twenties were more likely to suffer from extremely low self-esteem.
Loosing your hair can be disturbing, especially if you're a young man or woman. This unwanted loss forces those afflicted to face new issues, such as the perceived loss of youth and sexual attractiveness.
It's common for young people who are balding to have feelings of isolation. They may feel uncomfortable among their peers and in public. Young people with hair loss often lose their confidence and may also become less productive at work.
For older people hair loss is often just one more sign that they're reaching middle or old age. It may prompt them to question the direction of their lives or fear that their lives are closer to the end than the beginning. This can result in a sense of loss, insecurity, or even depression.
And as bad as men have it, hair loss can be even worse for women. Balding women must deal not only with the thought of aging, but also that they may not be considered attractive.
Yes, hair loss can be disturbing. But there are many effective options available to you, ranging from hair loss drugs that often halt thinning to restoring the hair you’ve lost with surgical hair restoration.
However, prior to choosing a hair loss treatment, it is wise to deal with the psychological effects of hair loss.
Hair loss at any age, while not painful or dangerous, can cause emotional damage and distress.
You can find support and share ideas and advice privately with other hair loss sufferers by reading and posting on our popular hair loss discussion forum.
By sharing with others you will realize that others share your same concerns and feelings about going bald. You will also learn about what hair loss treatments actually work or not from those who have already tried them.
In addition to our discussion forum, you can also view Hair Loss Weblogs created by actual hair restoration patients. These blogs contain photos journals documenting the person's hair restoration. Often you can correspond with these blog authors by email.
If you have a hair loss question please post it on our Hair Loss Q & A Blog. This blog can also be searched for dozens of answers on many hair restoration topics.
Empowering yourself with information and sharing your feelings and concerns will also make you feel much more in control of your hair loss. Then, if and when you finally do choose a hair loss treatment option, you will feel much more confident in your decision.
Many who once were preoccupied by their hair loss find a solution and move on in life, sometimes with a "new lease on life". While others choose to remain bald and simply accept it.
The choice is yours to make. This site is dedicated to helping you successfully resolve your hair loss issue on the inside as well as on the outside.
In 1999, the psychological impact of hair loss, as well as its leading treatments, was the subject of the American Academy of Dermatology's summer scientific meeting in New York. At this meeting it was revealed that there were direct links between androgenetic alopecia (male and female pattern baldness) and personality disorders in those afflicted.
In one study of 116 subjects with hair loss it was determined that 76.3% of the participants had at least one actual personality disorder. This was an extremely high rate of disorder compared to the much lower rate of 10% of the general public suffering from personality disorders.
Another study showed that twice as many women than men with hair loss rated themselves as “very” or “extremely” upset about their hair loss.
Scalp Med TV infomercials, like many hair loss products, claim to sell FDA approved hair loss products. Pictures, videos, and testimonies on television show hair loss sufferers regrowing hair even when men and women were completely bald. Is this really what balding people can expect from Scalp Med? Below we examine Scalp Med and unlock the mystery ingredients and whether or not any clinical proof exists that this hair loss solution can treat baldness.
Scalp Med includes 3 distinct products including topical Vitadil-5A for men or Vitadil-2A for women, topical NutriSol-RM, and Cortex Enlarger hair thickening spray.
Vitadil-5A for men or Vitadil-2A for women is a topical solution that contains the proven hair regrowth solution minoxidil, also found in Rogaine and Xandrox. It's also said to include a unique delivery agent formulated to increase the absorption of 5% minoxidil for men, 2% for women.
Scalp Med is a bit more vague as to the ingredients found in the NutriSol-RM topical and the Cortex Enlarger thickening spray. While NutriSol-RM topical is designed to add essential nutrients to the scalp for healthier hair, the Cortex Enlarger hair thickening spray's primary purpose is to temporarily fatten the hair follicles making hair appear thicker.
Scalp Med is upfront that the ingredients found in the NutriSol-RM shampoo and Cortex Enlarger hair thickener will not stop hair loss or cause hair regrowth.
Scalp Med also offers a detoxifying cleanser kit which includes a detoxifying shampoo called Panthenol-DX Scalp Detoxifier. This shampoo is designed to deeply cleanse the scalp without stripping the hair of its natural oils and nutrients. Unless your thinning hair is due to pollutants or toxins affecting natural hair growth, Panthenol-DX Scalp Detoxifier won't stimulate new hair growth. Scalp Med's Panthenol-DX does nothing to stop the natural progression of genetic female hair loss and male pattern baldness.
To supplement Scalp Med's hair loss treatment program, Scalp Med offers a Mega-Multi Vitamin to increase overall body health.
Scalp Med can legally claim that it's product contains an FDA approved ingredient since Scalp Med does contain minoxidil, which is a FDA approved topical treatment for hair loss. However, Scalp Med its self has not been granted FDA approval. Though Scalp Med's other products may work to promote healthy hair, it's the minoxidil that gives balding men and women any hope of restoring their hair.
Unfortunately, Scalp Med's marketing infomercials makes it appear that completely bald men and women have hope of regrowing a full head of thick and healthy hair. However, the words “Results seen are not typical” can be seen in small fine print at the bottom of your television. Additionally, Scalp Med's website FAQ makes it clear that no non-surgical hair loss solution is proven to grow hair in completely bald areas.
There are several proven success stories that minoxidil can stimulate hair regrowth in areas of thinning hair. Therefore, Scalp Med's Vitadil-5A should be as effective as 5% minoxidil just as Vitadil-2A should be as effective as the 2% solution.
Scalp Med is about 3 times the cost of minoxidil. A two month supply of Scalp Med is approximately $160.00. Discounts are available if you buy in bulk. However, even in bulk, the net cost ends up around $64 per month as opposed to the $20 per month cost of Rogaine. Generic minoxidil costs even less.