This guide is for information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Hair loss can have several causes. Ask a doctor or dermatologist to assess it before starting a treatment or supplement.
Part 1 — Understand hair loss
Chapter 1 — Genetic hair loss and temporary shedding
The most common form of pattern hair loss is androgenetic alopecia. It affects men and women and is linked to inherited predisposition and how sensitive hair follicles are to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). In people who are predisposed, follicles can gradually produce finer, shorter hairs and may eventually become less active.
The process is usually gradual. An early diagnosis can help you discuss ways to slow it down or stabilise density, but results differ from person to person and no treatment guarantees full regrowth. Shedding after an illness, a stressful period, a deficiency or a hormonal change can have a different, sometimes temporary, course.
Part 2 — Spot changes and seek advice early
Chapter 1 — Signs to look out for
In men, the temples may recede, the hairline may thin or the crown may become more visible. In women, the part may widen, the scalp may show more clearly on top or a ponytail may lose volume. In either case, hair that becomes persistently finer or shorter may be worth discussing with a doctor.
Patterns vary from person to person. Only a professional can assess the cause.
Losing some hair each day is normal. Persistent loss of density or unusual shedding is more useful to assess than one isolated episode.
Chapter 2 — Track changes without judging one day
You can take photos every three months with dry hair and similar lighting, angle and styling. Compare them with older photos rather than drawing conclusions from a single day of shedding.
Dry hair · same style · same distance. Sudden or significant hair loss warrants medical advice without waiting for the next photo check.
A dermatologist can examine the scalp and follicles, including with trichoscopy. Depending on your symptoms and history, a clinician may also investigate other causes and request tests for iron, thyroid function or certain vitamins.
Part 3 — Treatments to discuss with a clinician
Chapter 1 — Minoxidil
Topical minoxidil may be considered for some forms of androgenetic alopecia. The concentration, formulation and directions depend on the specific product and the person using it. Follow the product leaflet and a clinician’s advice rather than copying a dose from the internet.
It can take several months to assess a possible effect. Irritation or itching can occur, and temporary shedding may happen at the start. Any benefit usually depends on continued use; stopping can lead to loss of the gains. Product indications differ, especially for women. Oral minoxidil and off-label use require medical supervision and should not be started on your own.
Chapter 2 — Finasteride and other hormone-related treatments
Oral finasteride may be an option for some men after a medical assessment. Possible adverse effects include sexual and psychiatric symptoms, which may sometimes persist after stopping.
Dutasteride and anti-androgen treatments are not suitable for everyone; their status and indications depend on the medicine and country. Some hormone-related treatments carry important risks during pregnancy. Do not start, change or stop a treatment without speaking to your clinician. If your mood changes significantly or you have suicidal thoughts while taking finasteride, stop it and contact a healthcare professional promptly.
Chapter 3 — Other options and their limits
Low-level laser devices, microneedling and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) are sometimes offered. Results and evidence vary. Ask a dermatologist what is realistic, along with the risks and costs.
A hair transplant is surgery; it does not by itself prevent future progression. It requires specialist assessment and may be considered as part of a broader follow-up plan.
Minoxidil, finasteride, PRP, laser and hair transplantation have different indications. The right choice depends on diagnosis, personal circumstances and medical advice.
Part 4 — Care for your scalp
Chapter 1 — Oil, inflammation and washing frequency
An oily scalp does not by itself cause androgenetic alopecia. Significant dandruff, dermatitis or persistent inflammation may still need treatment. Wash according to your scalp’s comfort; there is no universal schedule.
Use lukewarm water, massage gently with your fingertips and rinse thoroughly. An anti-dandruff shampoo may be suitable for some conditions; ask a clinician if symptoms persist. If you use a topical treatment, follow its leaflet so you do not wash it off too soon.
Part 5 — Nutrition and supplements: avoid shortcuts
Chapter 1 — Prevent deficiencies rather than look for a miracle pill
A balanced diet does not block DHT or cure genetic hair loss. However, a very restrictive diet or a deficiency can contribute to diffuse shedding alongside another condition. Adequate protein and a varied diet are sensible foundations.
Iron, zinc, vitamin D, vitamin B12 and other nutrients may be assessed depending on your situation. Do not take iron or high-dose vitamins without a reason: excess can be harmful, and some supplements such as biotin can interfere with lab tests. “Hair” supplements are most relevant when a deficiency has been identified.
Chapter 2 — Diets and supplements to approach carefully
Very rapid weight loss, a very low-calorie or low-protein diet, a monotonous diet or a poorly planned eating pattern can contribute to diffuse shedding. After bariatric surgery, during pregnancy or after childbirth, ask for support to monitor nutrition and possible deficiencies.
Evidence for saw palmetto, pumpkin seed oil and other supplements marketed for hair loss is limited. They do not replace a diagnosis or treatments whose benefits and risks have been discussed with a doctor.
Part 6 — Habits that protect your hair
Chapter 1 — Reduce avoidable stress on hair
Smoking, intense stress, poor sleep and hairstyles that repeatedly pull on the hair may affect hair health or contribute to additional shedding in some people. Consider limiting repeated traction, excessive heat, bleaching and frequent chemical straightening if your hair is fragile.
These habits do not cure genetic alopecia, but they can help avoid adding preventable stressors or shedding triggers.
Part 7 — A simple action plan
Chapter 1 — Six steps to remember
- Track changes and take comparable photos every three months.
- See a doctor or dermatologist early if density keeps decreasing.
- Confirm the diagnosis and look for other causes when needed.
- Discuss options, side effects and follow-up before starting treatment.
- Care for your scalp and avoid restrictive diets or supplements without a reason.
- Review progress with your clinician; hair treatment is assessed over several months.
Guide summary
- Genetic predisposition cannot always be prevented, but an early diagnosis helps you review the available options.
- Persistent or sudden shedding deserves an assessment based on its cause.
- Hair-loss medicines have limits, side effects and specific indications.
- Supplements do not replace testing or medical treatment.
- Medical follow-up matters, especially with hormone-related treatments and oral minoxidil.
A useful question
Can shampoo treat pattern hair loss?
A shampoo can cleanse the scalp or improve hair appearance, but cannot replace a medical assessment or indicated treatment.
Finasteride requires medical advice and can cause psychiatric and sexual side effects. In France, dispensing 1 mg requires a prescription and an annual shared-information form. Discuss the benefits and risks with your doctor.