Hair Regrowth: A Complete Guide

Did you know an average human typically sheds 50 to 100 scalp hairs each day? Granted, some hair loss is completely normal and cannot be helped. 

But what happens when you start to find unusually large chunks of hair stuck to your hairbrush, clothing, or the floor? Maybe you also notice that your once-luscious strands are now thinning, your part has been getting wider, and bald patches have started popping up here and there. 

Hair loss affects millions of people worldwide, and it can be a real blow to your confidence. But here’s the good news- you can regrow every strand of your lost hair. And that’s exactly what we’ll cover in this blog today. We’ll - 

1. Go over the science and explore the root cause of hair fall – so that you understand the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of your condition. 
2. Explore evidence-based, science-backed hair regrowth methods – so you’re fully equipped to make an informed decision and get your hair back on track.

Understanding Hair Loss

Image Source: Health Line

Our hair goes through a cycle of growth, rest, and shedding. This is called the hair growth cycle, and it consists of four main stages. 

• Anagen (Growth) Phase: This is when your hair is actively growing and working hard to produce new hair strands. It can last anywhere from 2 to 7 years.
• Catagen (Transition) Phase: Following the growth phase is a transition period lasting around 2 to 3 weeks. During this stage, hair growth halts, and the follicle diminishes in size while disconnecting from the strands.
• Telogen (Resting) Phase: There is a resting phase lasting 3 to 4 months before hair naturally falls out to make room for growth. It's common to notice increased shedding during this period.
• Exogen (Shedding) Phase: This stage is characterised by the old hair falling out to make way for new growth 

What Causes Hair Loss? Common Causes of Hair Loss

Various factors can contribute to thinning hair or excessive shedding. Here are some of the common causes of hair loss. 

1. Genetics: Sometimes, you’re just born with it. Quite literally! Our genes play a significant role in determining hair loss. So, if your mom or dad has experienced pattern baldness or struggles with thinning hair, there’s a good chance you will experience it, too. 
2. Hormonal Changes: Changes in hormonal levels, such as during pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause, can often lead to hair loss. Fluctuations in thyroid levels can also wreak havoc on hair.
3. Medical Conditions: Alopecia areata, scalp infections, and other health issues can lead to hair loss.
4. Medications: Certain drugs, specifically those to treat cancer, arthritis, depression, and high blood pressure, can cause hair loss as a side effect.
5. Stress:  Chronic stress can have damaging repercussions on the body, including your hair follicles. When under constant stress, your hair can prolong the resting phase, leading to excessive shedding.
6. Nutritional Deficiencies: It is no secret that your hair needs proper nutrition to function optimally, much like any part of your body. Any lack of essential nutrients such as iron, zinc, protein, and vitamins can lead to thinning hair and make it more susceptible to breakage and thinning.
7. Hairstyling Practices: Now, you might not want to hear this, but those trendy hairstyles that often involve tying your hair up tight can be a real buzzkill. Excessive heat styling and harsh chemical treatments will also damage your hair follicles over time.

Disclaimer: Please note that this content isn’t intended to replace medical advice and is meant for informational purposes only.  Always consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about hair loss or before starting any new treatment.

The Science of Hair Regrowth – Can You Really Get Your Hair Back?

The answer to this question isn’t as straightforward as one would hope. Much of it depends on the specific circumstances and conditions of the individual. More specifically, hair regrowth comes down to the health of your hair follicles. 

If a hair follicle is severely damaged or, worse, completely destroyed, new hair growth in that area becomes unattainable. Yet, if the follicle remains intact but inactive, there’s still hope – we may be able to salvage it and promote new hair growth.

Factors Affecting Hair Regrowth

1. The cause of hair loss: Your conditions gravely affect the difficulty and probability of regrowth. For instance, if your hair loss was due to a temporary stressor or nutritional deficiency, it might be easier to reverse. On the other hand, if you struggle with an autoimmune condition or have a genetic predisposition, it might be trickier to tackle. 
2. How long you've been losing hair:  Hair loss, if left undiagnosed or untreated, can be harder to reverse. This is because prolonged hair loss can lead to miniaturisation of hair follicles, which gradually pushes them to become inactive. So, your best shot at regrowth is to start the treatment early and promptly. 
3. Your age: Age can be another contributing factor to how well your treatments work. Typically, younger individuals respond better to treatment due to their active cell turnover and more number of hair follicles. As you age, our body’s ability to naturally regenerate slows down. But that doesn't mean older folks can't get results they want-  it just takes more time and a thorough treatment plan.
4. Your overall health: A sound and well-functioning body is important to effective hair growth. Chronic diseases, hormonal fluctuations, or inadequate nutrition may impede regrowth attempts. 
5. Genetics: Your genetic makeup weighs heavily when it comes to your hair regrowth and how fast or effectively you respond to your treatments.

Hair Regrowth Treatments

Here's a rundown of some popular hair regrowth treatments, ranging from over-the-counter options to medical procedures:

Over-the-Counter Treatments

Minoxidil (Rogaine)

Before (left) after (right) of a woman after starting minoxidil treatment.

Minoxidil is a topical treatment that was originally made to manage hypertension, but soon became a well-known antidote for hair regrowth. It is a vasodilator and increases the blood flow to the scalp. This way, it helps prolong the growth phase of the hair follicles and promote hair regrowth, especially if administered early.

• Pros: Easily available, non-prescription, and relatively affordable.
• Cons: Requires consistent, long-term use, and results vary from person to person.

Redensyl 

Source: Wimpole Clinic

If you’re looking for a choicer alternative to minoxidil, redensyl might be your best bet. Derived from plant extracts, it works by targeting follicle stem cells and works towards hair regrowth by extending the growth phase. 

• Pros: Targets hair follicle stem cells directly, shows promising results in clinical studies, and can be used in conjunction with other treatments.
• Cons: As a relatively newer treatment, more studies are required to establish its long-term effects, and limited availability compared to more established products.

Caffeine-based Products

Caffeine is yet another effective over-the-counter solution for hair regrowth. Often applied topically in the form of shampoo and other products, it can be really effective with consistent use and has very little to no side effects. 

It is known to promote hair growth by stimulating the hair follicles, counteracting the effects of DHT (a hormone linked to hair loss), and forcing them to remain in the growth phase for longer. 

Although a lot of research on its effect is ongoing, some studies have shown promising results.

• Pros: Generally safer and can be used in conjunction with other treatments.
• Cons: Effects may be limited compared to more potent treatments.

While these over-the-counter options have shown promise for many, some people find they need a more comprehensive approach. This has led to the development of multi-ingredient serums that aim to address various aspects of hair health simultaneously.

For instance, the Masofta Hair Growth Serum combines clinically studied compounds like Redensyl and Procapil with nourishing natural ingredients such as Rosemary and Biotin. This serum is designed to target multiple hair concerns, from receding hairlines and bald patches to hair thinning and excessive shedding. Shop now! 

Real results with Masofta

Prescription Treatments

Finasteride (Propecia)

This is a medication that is often prescribed for treating male pattern baldness and is to be used by adult males only. It is administered and is to be used at the crown and middle of the scalp. It works by tanking the levels of DHT, which consequently results in lower hair fall and, with time, increased hair growth. 

• Pros: Can show results quickly, especially when paired with other hair growth solutions such as minoxidil
• Cons: Access to it is limited to prescription only, not suitable for women who are pregnant or planning to conceive, and increased risks of side effects (such as low libido and erectile dysfunction)  

Dutasteride

Another effective drug that works by inhibiting DHT, dutasteride helps combat hair loss, especially for men who haven't had much luck with Finasteride. 

While Finasteride blocks one form of the enzyme responsible for this conversion, Dutasteride does one better and blocks two, potentially making it more effective at reducing DHT levels. But here’s the catch—it is more commonly prescribed for the treatment of enlarged prostates and hasn’t yet received approval from the FDA. 

• Pros: Studies have been showing increased effectiveness of the drug, especially over Finasteride.
• Cons: It isn’t particularly suitable for women – especially those planning to get pregnant or are already pregnant. It also comes with increased risks of side effects. The lack of FDA approval is another hindrance when it comes to its accessibility and long-term use.

Spironolactone

Spironolactone is mainly prescribed to women who suffer from hormonal imbalances such as PCOS. It is particularly beneficial in treating female-pattern hair loss and works by slowing down the production of androgens or testosterone. By reducing the effect of these hormones, it promotes slower hair loss and, in some cases, newer hair growth.

This drug has an added advantage as well – spironolactone can also help with acne and excess facial hair, making it a multi-tasking medication for some women.

• Pros: A multi-faceted drug that helps women not only with hair regrowth and hair loss but also conditions such as hypertension, acne  
• Cons: Some women reportedly experience side effects such as irregular menstrual cycles, weight fluctuations, decreased libido, and overall energy

In-Office Treatments

PRP 

Platelet-rich plasma therapy, more commonly known as PRP, is known to stimulate hair growth and help with hair loss. It works by drawing out blood (mostly from your arms), processing it through a centrifuge, and then injecting plasma-rich cells into the affected area of your scalp,  

• Pros: Generally safe, minimally invasive, and no risk of communicable disease
• Cons: Might be expensive for some, requires multiple sessions to start showing results, pain during treatment, side effects include itchiness and headache

Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

Also known as red light therapy and cold laser therapy, LLT uses low-power lasers or LEDs to stimulate hair regrowth. It is non-invasive and is shown to work great, especially when used with other hair treatments. 

LLT works by improving blood circulation to the scalp and boosting metabolism in hair follicles during the catagen or telogen phase, essentially “reviving” hair follicles.

• Pros: It is a very safe, tolerable, and noninvasive treatment for hair regrowth. It can be attempted at home with approved devices.
• Cons: Requires consistent, long-term use for results to show

Hair Transplantation

Hair transplants have completely changed the way we deal with hair loss by providing a lasting fix for people facing thinning hair or baldness. This procedure involves moving hair follicles from areas with dense hair growth (ie, donor regions like the back or sides of the head, where hair growth is naturally more resilient) to spots where hair is thinning or missing altogether.

The surgeon then carefully takes into account factors such as the way the patient’s hair naturally grows and overall appearance to achieve a “natural-looking” result. Subsequently, new hair starts growing from these relocated hair follicles over the next few months,  

• Pros: A more permanent solution to hair regrowth, offers more natural-looking results 
• Cons: Typically on the expensive side (and rarely covered by insurance), it involves potential risks of infection, scarring, and complications from anaesthesia, requires a skilled surgeon for best results, and may not be suitable for everyone. 

Please note that what works best can vary from person to person. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.

Lifestyle Changes

While treatments can help, don't forget the influence of your lifestyle when it comes to promoting hair growth. Here are some key aspects to focus on;

Dietary Changes 

Making sure your hair receives proper nutrition is crucial for its well-being. Here are key nutrients to incorporate into your diet

• Boost protein intake with options like meat, fish, eggs and legumes.
• Include iron foods like spinach, lentils and red meat to prevent hair loss.
• Incorporate biotin by consuming eggs, nuts and whole grains.
• Vitamin C aids in sebum production for moisturized hair.
• Omega 3 fatty acids from fish, flaxseeds and walnuts support scalp health.

Stress Management

Consistent or uncontrolled stress can harm your well-being. Consider integrating these stress-relieving techniques into your routine;

• Practice meditation and mindfulness daily to reduce stress levels effectively.
• Engage in physical activity to relieve stress and improve overall wellness.
• Make sure to get sleep. Aim for 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep each night.
• Engage, in hobbies; Take part in activities that bring you happiness and help take your mind off stress.

Follow Good Hair Care

Your hair care routine plays a role. Consider these suggestions:

• Stay away from harsh chemicals and heat: Excessive heat can be detrimental to the health of your hair. They strip moisture from your hair and make it dry and brittle. If you must really use heat tools, double down on heat protectants and consider investing in quality tools. Similarly, reduce the use of harsh chemicals, hair colouring, and hair treatments on your hair as they can weaken the hair structure.  

• Use a mild shampoo: Shampoos without sulphates are better for your hair and scalp. Sulphates, although good at cleaning, can strip the oils from your hair, making it dry and irritate your scalp. Opt for shampoos containing cleansers such as Cocamidopropyl betaine or Coco glucoside. These gentle cleansers help eliminate dirt and excess oil without disturbing the balance of your scalp. It's also helpful to use a clarifying shampoo once a month to get rid of any product build-up.

• Handle wet hair with care: Your hair is most prone to breakage when it is wet as the cuticle is raised. So, make sure to be cautious when stepping out of the shower and drying your hair. Always squeeze the excess water and remember to pat dry instead of aggressively rubbing.  Wait until your hair is dry before detangling it, and use a wide-toothed comb. A leave-in conditioner can be used for styling and added protection. 

• Scalp massage: An often overlooked part of haircare, scalp massages can work wonders if done correctly., They stimulate hair growth by increasing blood flow to the scalp. You can either use your fingers to massage in circular motions or invest in a scalp massager. A good rule of thumb is to massage the scalp for 5-10 minutes every day. 

• Protect your hair when sleeping: Your hair can rub against your pillow when you sleep, and this friction can often cause it to tangle, break, and become frizzy. To avoid this, consider investing in a satin or silk pillowcase and wearing a protective hairstyle to bed.

Start Your Hair Regrowth with Masofta

Whew! We've covered a lot of ground, haven't we? From understanding the causes of hair loss to exploring various treatment options and lifestyle changes, you're now better equipped to take control of your hair regrowth journey.

Ready to take the next step in your hair regrowth journey? That's where Masofta comes in. We're not just another company trying to sell you a miracle in a bottle. We're a team of real people who are looking to help people like you through the hair loss struggle and come out the other side.

At Masofta, we offer a range of cutting-edge hair regrowth solutions tailored to your individual needs. Our team of experts stays up-to-date with the latest research and technologies in hair regrowth, ensuring you have access to the most effective treatments available.

Now, we’re not going to sugarcoat it - the hair regrowth journey isn't always a walk in the park. It takes time, patience, and sometimes a bit of trial and error. Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is a full head of hair. Good luck!