Hair Loss Slideshow Pictures Hair and Scalp Slideshow Pictures

Medical Author:

Gary W. Cole, MD

Gary W. Cole, MD

Dr. Cole is board certified in dermatology. He obtained his BA degree in bacteriology, his MA degree in microbiology, and his MD at the University of California, Los Angeles. He trained in dermatology at the University of Oregon, where he completed his residency.

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Medical Editor:

Jerry R. Balentine, DO, FACEP

Jerry R. Balentine, DO, FACEP

Dr. Balentine received his undergraduate degree from McDaniel College in Westminster, Maryland. He attended medical school at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine graduating in1983. He completed his internship at St. Joseph's Hospital in Philadelphia and his Emergency Medicine residency at Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center in the Bronx, where he served as chief resident.

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Medical Treatment

Androgenetic alopecia

• Finasteride (Propecia): a pill taken once daily that blocks the activity of an enzyme that metabolizes testosterone to substance that inhibits hair growth. Any regrowth is not permanent. Finasteride is not currently used for the treatment of hair loss in women.



• Minoxidil (Rogaine, Loniten): A medication you rub directly onto your scalp. This medication enlarges hairs and makes them grow for a longer period.



• It works for both men and women.



• It works best for balding at the top and back of the head and less well for the front area of the scalp.



• Stopping this medication can result in loss of the hair that developed during its use.

Alopecia areata

Intralesional injection of steroids directly into the areas of involved skin can mitigate the hair loss for a short period of time.