Topical Hair Loss Treatments: How They Work & What to Expect

Topical solutions for hair loss are used on your scalp to help new hair grow and prevent further hair loss. New hair may require two to three months of treatment to start growing, but side effects of topical solutions for hair growth may occur within minutes of applying the treatments. Consider this information from the Mayo Clinic about topical solutions for hair loss.

Minoxidil

• Minoxidil (Rogaine) is a topical solution rubbed into your scalp to help regrow your hair and is available without a doctor's prescription.

Minoxidil Side Effects

• New hair growth may not match your existing hair in color or texture; other side effects include irritations and burning sensations on your scalp.

Corticosteroids

• Corticosteroids may be used as ointments or creams rubbed into your scalp to slow the loss of hair that may result from alopecia areata.

Corticosteroid Side Effects

• Corticosteroids may cause you to become sick more easily, slow down healing of sores or wounds and cause weakening of cartilage and bones.

Anthralin

• Anthralin (Dithro-Scalp) is a tarry cream rubbed into your scalp every day to treat hair loss caused by alopecia areata.

Anthralin Side Effects

• Anthralin may cause irritations and rashes on your scalp, as well as other areas of skin on your body where the solution was not applied.

Warning

• Topical solutions for hair loss should not be used on babies or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding due to potentially life-threatening side effects such as dangerously high blood pressure.