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Remedies for the root of the issue.

collage of Best Hair Loss Treatments

Byrdie

Peterson Pierre, M.D., notes that causes vary fromstressand hormonal changes likepregnancyand even harsh hairstyles or products.

A topical, over-the-countertreatment for hair losscan help turn things aroundno prescription needed.

Currently, only one topical ingredient is FDA-approved to treat hair loss:minoxidil.

Advanced Trichology NutraM Topical Melatonin Hair Growth Serum

PHOTO: Advanced Trichology

However, many other products with scalp-stimulating and DHT-blocking ingredients show promise.

Testers weighed the products' efficacy and results regarding new growth and a fuller hairline.

Check out the winners below.

Photos of person’s hair before and after using Advanced Trichology NutraM Topical Melatonin Hair Growth Serum

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The serum-like consistency dried remarkably fast, swiftly absorbing into the scalp without leaving behind any unwanted residue.

The key ingredient is melatonin, which has been shown to support regrowth and thicker strands after hair loss.

We found the scent a little strong, but only upon initial applicationit dissipates quickly.

her Minoxidil Solution

PHOTO: hers

Taylor, tester with fine hair:“This was actually one of my favorite hair product applications.

Still, it delivered noteworthy results.

Brendan Camp, M.D.

A person’s hair before and after using hers Women’s Minoxidil 2% Topical Solution

PHOTO: Byrdie

The dropper applicator was fairly easy to use, but the liquid formula does tend to run.

Ultimately, we think this is a stellar deal for an effective hair loss treatment.

I have also noticed some new growth, which is great to see!”

A person shows the dropper on a bottle of hers Minoxidil Solution

It also helped with thickness and fullness.

It absorbs into the scalp within a few minutes without causing irritation and doesn’t weigh the hair down.

It was fairly thick and uniform and not wispy or weird.

A person’s hair before and after using hers Women’s Minoxidil 2% Topical Solution

My hair did appear thicker and fuller after the testing period."

Our tester only used the foam once a day.

However, it has to be measured into the product cap, a step our tester found inconvenient.

A person shows the dropper on a bottle of hers Minoxidil Solution

All that said, if you’re looking for fast results, this product will deliver.

However, it did result in new hair growth with twice-daily use.

Plus, the quick-drying foam was barely noticeable after applying.

BosleyMD Men’s Extra Strength Minoxidil 5% Spray Topical

PHOTO: Bosley

This formula is perfect for addressing those spots.

For starters, the targeted nozzle makes precise app a breeze, something our tester greatly appreciated.

But the treatment dried quickly without weighing down the hair.

A before and after photo showing the effects of using BosleyMD Men’s Extra Strength Minoxidil 5% Topical Sprayer Kit

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They look like flyaways in photos, but it’s new growth."

It also slowedhair shedding(he saw way fewer hairs falling out in the sink).

Just a couple of things threw us about the utility process.

hers Minoxidil Foam for Women

PHOTO: hers

The foam can melt quickly (which is why the instructions say to apply with cold hands).

And it requires some planning since your hair is supposed to be dry before each use.

The Virtue Flourish Kit includes shampoo, conditioner, and leave-on minoxidil foam.

A before and after photo showing the effects of using hers Minoxidil Foam for Women

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The latter is easy to use and effortlessly soaks into the skinit was truly undetectable on the scalp.

And it delivered real results.

There was no irritation or unwanted scent (great for our sensitive-skinned friends).

Walmart keeps 5% Minoxidil Foam

PHOTO: Walmart

Thankfully, this product restores fullness without product buildup.

Our tester noticed a change in her hair about six weeks after starting the minoxidil-based leave-on serum.

Some sparse patches began filling in, and she saw more fullness and length.

A before and after photo showing the effects of using Keeps 5% Minoxidil Foam

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Though it did cause slight tingling upon app, there was never any irritation.

One caveat, though: It’s not ideal for color-treated hair.

Our tester noticed her color fading and grays starting to re-emerge within a week.

Keranique Women’s 2% Minoxidil Topical Solution Hair Regrowth Treatment (60-Day Supply)

PHOTO: Ulta

My hair is fuller in the areas it was receding."

The foam only has to be used once a day, at nightanother attribute she appreciatedand it’s fragrance-free.

(CBD may help with hair loss by minimizing inflammation and regulating oil production on the scalp.)

Photos of person’s hair before and after using Keranique Hair Regrowth Treatment for Women 2% Minoxidil Topical Solution USP

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This shampoo cleaned our tester’s hair well without stripping it or causing irritation.

We’re also fans of the subtle citrusy-herbal scent.

Since it’s formulated withoutsulfates, it doesn’t suds up into a rich later.

Rogaine Men’s 5% Minoxidil Unscented Foam

PHOTO: Rogaine

But it still does its job and rinses out easily.

We then recruited testers across genders and hair types experiencing hair loss or thinning.

Each tester used the product for 12 weeks, applying it according to the brand’s instructions.

A before and after photo showing the effects of using Men’s Rogaine 5% Minoxidil Unscented Foam

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They took photos of their hair and scalp before starting treatment and at the end of testing.

It’s also the most challenging to remedy because the exact cause varies.

A nutritional deficiency could also be an under-the-radar cause of hair loss.

Virtue HAIR GROWTH TREATMENT (MINOXIDIL 5%)

PHOTO: Virtue Labs

“You should condition your hair andmoisturize your scalpregularly to minimize your chances of hair loss.”

Gaunitz says the most critical for hair are iron,zinc, ferritin, folate, andvitamin D3.

Don’t expect immediate, dramatic results from hair loss treatments.

Photos of person’s hair before and after using Virtue Minoxidil 5% Hair Growth Treatment

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“Hair loss treatments take timeusually around four to six months to see real progress.

He has covered hair loss extensively during her career.

(Shes also a new mom to twins experiencing postpartum shedding and trying new treatments to stop it.)

Amazon Rogaine Women’s 2% Minoxidil Topical Solution Hair Regrowth Treatment

PHOTO: Amazon

Emily Cieslak, an associate editor at Byrdie, interviewed several experts for this story.

Famenini S, et al.

2017;96(6):371-378.

A before and after photo showing the effects of using Rogaine Women’s 2% Minoxidil Topical Solution Hair Regrowth Treatment

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(2023).Melatonin and the Human Hair Follicle.Journal of drugs in dermatology.

doi.org/10.36849/JDD.6921

Suchonwanit P, et al.

Women’s Rogaine 5% Minoxidil Foam for Hair Thinning and Loss

PHOTO: Amazon

Photos of person’s hair before and after using Rogaine Women’s 5% Minoxidil Foam for Hair Thinning and Loss

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Vegamour GRO+ Advanced Balancing Shampoo

PHOTO: Sephora

Two closeups of a person’s wavy blonde hair

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A person shows the dropper on a bottle of hers Minoxidil Solution

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