Hair-Loss Treatment

Dermatologist-led hair-loss programme: find the cause before treating

Hair loss is not only hereditary. We examine the scalp under magnification and run blood tests to find the cause, then plan treatment with medication, PRP-LED, low-level laser and hair mesotherapy under medical follow-up, and tell you clearly when a transplant becomes the right choice.

Growth phaseResting phaseShedding phase
Illustration: hairs miniaturised by hormones compared with normal hairs, and the examination points for trichoscopy

Why find the cause first

Hereditary and hormonal hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) is the most common cause in both men and women, but there is also diffuse shedding (telogen effluvium) after illness, rapid weight loss, childbirth, surgery or severe stress, which usually begins 2–3 months after the event and resolves on its own. Other causes include low iron, thyroid disorders, sex-hormone imbalance (such as PCOS), autoimmune patchy hair loss, scalp inflammation from fungal infection or seborrhoeic dermatitis, and side effects of certain medications. Each cause is treated differently. Using hair-growth medication without testing can waste months while follicles continue to miniaturise.

The examination

Detailed historyDuration and pattern of loss, family history, menstrual history, childbirth, medication, supplements, stress and hair styling habits
Scalp examination under magnification (trichoscopy)Density per square centimetre, the proportion of miniaturised hairs, and the condition of follicles and scalp are measured and photographed for comparison
Pull testAssesses whether more hairs than normal are in the shedding phase
Blood tests as indicatedFerritin, CBC, thyroid (TSH, free T4), vitamin D, zinc, and sex hormones when PCOS or low testosterone is suspected
Diagnosis and planDr. Kate explains the results, the type of hair loss, the realistic outcome and the treatment options that fit your budget and time

Treatment options

MethodHow it worksFrequencySuited to
Topical or oral minoxidilDilates blood vessels and prolongs the growth phase of the hair; low-dose oral minoxidil must be prescribed by a doctorDaily, ongoingHereditary thinning in men and women
Finasteride / dutasterideLowers DHT, the hormone that miniaturises follicles; the doctor explains side effects and follows upDaily, ongoingMen with hereditary thinning (women only in selected post-menopausal cases)
PRP-LED™Concentrated platelets from your own blood are injected into the thinning area, followed by LED lightMonthly for 3–4 sessions, then every 3–6 monthsAlongside medication for those who want faster results or cannot take medication
Low-level laser (LLLT)Red light at 650–670 nm stimulates follicle cell activity2–3 times a weekThose who want a pain-free option, used alongside medication
Hair mesotherapyVitamins, peptides and follicle nutrients injected superficially across the scalpEvery 2–4 weeks for 6–8 sessionsDiffuse shedding, post-partum loss and fine hair

How women and men differ

Men

Usually a patterned loss with a receding hairline and thinning crown. Responds well to finasteride with minoxidil, and suits a transplant once baldness is established

Women

Usually diffuse thinning with a widening parting while the hairline is preserved. Blood tests for iron, thyroid and hormones come first; main treatments are minoxidil, hair mesotherapy, PRP-LED or PureCells™

After childbirth and while breastfeeding

Heavy shedding 2–6 months after delivery is normal and usually improves on its own. Many medications cannot be used while breastfeeding, so the doctor chooses a suitable approach

Timeline to expect

Months 1–2Shedding may temporarily increaseMinoxidil and PRP cause old hairs to shed so a new cycle can begin. This is a normal sign; do not stop the medication
Months 3–4Shedding decreasesFewer hairs lost when washing and combing, and fine new hairs begin to appear
Month 6First assessmentMagnified images are compared. Most people see thicker hair; if there is no response, the doctor adjusts the plan
Month 12Full result and long-term planDecide on ongoing medication and consider a transplant for areas that medication has not helped
When to consider a transplant, and symptoms that need prompt attention

A transplant should be considered once an area has no remaining follicles, hair loss has been stable for at least 6–12 months and the donor area has enough grafts. Symptoms that need prompt medical attention include sudden round patches of loss, and a scalp that is red, itchy, scaly, painful or scarred, because some conditions cause irreversible follicle loss if treatment is delayed

Prices

Scalp examination under magnification and doctor consultation
History, trichoscopy, photographic record and treatment plan
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Blood tests for the cause of hair loss
Ferritin, CBC, thyroid, vitamin D and hormones as indicated
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PRP-LED™ per session
Blood draw, platelet separation, injection across the thinning area and LED light
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Hair mesotherapy per session
Topical anaesthetic and follicle-nutrient injections across the scalp
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Related

Frequently Asked Questions

Does finasteride really cause sexual dysfunction?

Sexual side effects occur in a minority of users (most studies report around 1–4%) and usually resolve on stopping the medication. The doctor explains this before prescribing, monitors symptoms and offers alternatives if you prefer not to take it.

How many hairs a day is abnormal?

Losing 50–100 hairs a day is normal. If you lose more than that for over 2–3 months, your scalp becomes more visible or your parting widens, it is worth coming in for an examination.

Do I have to take medication for life?

For hereditary hair loss, medication only works while you use it; when you stop, the hair gradually returns to its previous thinness within 6–12 months. Hair loss from temporary causes usually needs no ongoing medication once the cause is corrected.

Are blood tests necessary if my father is bald too?

If the pattern is clearly hereditary in a man, extensive testing may not be needed. In women, in diffuse loss or in unusually rapid loss, blood tests help find treatable causes and avoid wasting time.

Free doctor consultation, no obligationMessage us privately on LINE or WhatsApp and the doctor will suggest the right approach for you