Hair Loss Treatment — Causes, Treatment and Best Tablets

Hair Loss — When Should You Worry?

Losing 50–100 hairs per day is completely normal — it is part of the natural hair cycle. However, if you notice large clumps of hair on your pillow, hairbrush, or in the shower drain, or if your scalp is becoming visible, it is time to pay attention.

Common Causes of Hair Loss

1. Genetic / Hormonal (Pattern Baldness)

• In men: Thinning at the temples and crown (M-shape or crown thinning)
• In women: Widening part line at the centre of the scalp, but hairline remains intact
• Family history is a very strong indicator

2. Nutritional Deficiencies

• Iron deficiency — extremely common in Pakistani women
• Vitamin D — due to limited sun exposure or full body covering
• Vitamin B12 — common in vegetarians
• Zinc, biotin, and protein

3. Hormonal Causes

• Thyroid disease (both hypothyroid and hyperthyroid)
• PCOS — very common in Pakistani women
• Pregnancy / postpartum — shedding begins 2–4 months after delivery
• Menopause

4. Stress / Telogen Effluvium

Diffuse shedding typically occurs 2–3 months after a major event — fever, surgery, rapid weight loss, or prolonged stress. It usually resolves on its own within 6–9 months.

5. Medical Conditions and Medications

• Autoimmune (alopecia areata — round bald patches)
• Scalp fungal infections
• Lupus, anaemia
• Chemotherapy
• Oral contraceptive pills
• Blood thinners

6. Lifestyle and Hair Care

• Tight hairstyles (bun, ponytail) — traction alopecia
• Heat styling (straighteners, blow dryers)
• Chemical treatments (rebonding, bleach, hair dye)
• Hard water — common in Karachi and Islamabad
• Crash diets

Home Remedies for Hair Loss

1. Onion Juice

Apply onion juice to the scalp for 30 minutes, twice a week. The sulphur content stimulates hair regrowth — small studies show positive results.

2. Coconut Oil and Scalp Massage

Apply coconut oil before washing and massage the scalp gently for 5–10 minutes, twice a week. This improves blood circulation to hair follicles.

3. Aloe Vera

Apply fresh aloe vera gel to the scalp for 30 minutes, twice a week. It has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the scalp.

4. Egg Mask

Mix 1 egg with 1 teaspoon of olive oil and 1 teaspoon of honey. Apply for 30 minutes, once a week. Provides a protein boost to hair follicles.

5. Fenugreek (Methi) Mask

Soak fenugreek seeds overnight, grind into a paste, and apply for 30 minutes. A traditional remedy with some supporting evidence.

Evidence-Based Treatments

1. Minoxidil (Rogaine, Tugain) — Most Proven Option

• 5% solution applied twice daily to the scalp (for men)
• 2% or 5% formulation for women
• Available in Pakistan as Tugain, Rogaine, and Hair-G
• Results take 3–6 months, full effect after 1 year
• Initial shedding may increase slightly at the start — this is normal
• Hair loss returns if treatment is stopped — requires long-term commitment

2. Finasteride (Men Only)

• 1 mg tablet daily, available on doctor's prescription
• Blocks DHT — the hormone responsible for male pattern baldness
• Women must never use Finasteride (causes birth defects)
• Possible side effects include reduced libido

3. Dutasteride (Stronger Option)

More effective than Finasteride but with more side effects. Requires specialist guidance.

4. PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma)

Blood is drawn, platelets are concentrated, and the solution is injected into the scalp. Requires 3–4 sessions at a dermatology clinic.

5. Hair Transplant

FUE or FUT technique for severe baldness. Clinics are available in Pakistan, but choosing a qualified surgeon is essential.

Important Blood Tests

A doctor will typically order the following tests:

• CBC + Iron studies (ferritin) — to check for anaemia
• Vitamin D
• Vitamin B12
• TSH (thyroid)
• Hormonal panel (DHEA, testosterone — for women with suspected PCOS)

Diet — What to Eat for Hair Health

• Protein: Eggs, fish, chicken, lentils — include in every meal
• Iron: Spinach, red meat, figs, dates
• Omega-3: Fish, walnuts, flaxseed
• Biotin: Eggs, almonds, sweet potato
• Vitamin C: Oranges, citrus fruits, capsicum (aids iron absorption)
• Zinc: Pumpkin seeds, meat, lentils
• Water: 8 glasses daily

Hair Care Tips for Pakistan

• Use a hard-water filter (especially in Karachi and Islamabad)
• Wash hair with lukewarm water, never hot water
• Do not brush wet hair — it breaks easily
• Use sulphate-free and paraben-free shampoo
• Washing 2–3 times per week is sufficient — daily washing is not recommended
• Minimise heat styling; use a heat protectant spray if unavoidable
• Avoid tight hairstyles
• A silk pillowcase reduces friction and breakage

What Not to Do

• Starting "hair vitamins" without a proper diagnosis
• Trying every internet remedy without evidence
• Using steroid-laden "fast hair growth" oils sold by unverified vendors
• Shampooing every single day
• Using rubber bands on wet hair

When to See a Doctor

• Sudden and diffuse shedding in clumps
• Round bald patches (possible alopecia areata)
• Scalp itching, sores, or pus
• Continuous shedding for more than 3 months
• Irregular periods or facial hair growth (possible PCOS)
• Fatigue and weight changes accompanying hair loss (possible thyroid)
• Early baldness running in the family and starting in yourself

Conclusion

Understanding the cause of hair loss is the most important step — no treatment will work without addressing the underlying condition. Get blood tests first, then consider Minoxidil or Finasteride as evidence-based options. Patience is essential — any treatment takes 3–6 months to show results. Consult an online dermatologist on Ilaaj AI for diagnosis and prescriptions from the comfort of your home.