The Details and Facts on Hair Loss and 6 Various Ways to Treat It

Hair loss, or alopecia, comes in many forms and affects both men and women worldwide.  In 2010, more than 82 million individuals in the US suffered from hair loss - but only a small fraction of these afflicted individuals actively seek treatment.  Major reasons for their hesitance include high cost combined with non-coverage by insurance, potential side effects, and low effectiveness. 

For such a widespread epidemic, a straightforward solution has still not been found. As a result, companies continue to research and develop alternative treatments and solutions with the hope to entice this largely untapped market. The demand for hair growth and restoration solutions is expected to increase 4% per year and swell to a $350 million industry in 2015.

There are several commercially available hair loss treatments being sold on the market for hair regeneration and growth.

Finasteride, introduced in January of 1998, is currently the most commonly used solution. It works by blocking the DHT enzyme with the synthetic 4-azasteroid compound. The results are impressive, with 83 percent of subjects suffering from male pattern baldness maintaining their hair and 66 percent grew new hair. However, it is prescription only, restricted to men only, and can cause undesirable side effects such as loss of libido, erectile dysfunction and impotence.

Minoxidil, introduced in 1980, is technically the very first topical treatment for hair loss made available to the public. Minoxidil-based treatments are available over the counter (since 1995) and online, and marketed to both men and women. It’s only effective in about two-thirds of individuals suffering from hair loss, and cannot be used by those with heart conditions. The strict dosage requirements and schedules are also inconvenient to many individuals.

Herbs, oils, and natural ingredients such as wheat and soy proteins, peppermint, cysteine and kukui nut oil have been used in various scalp therapies and lotions to be used topically. There is no scientific evidence or research done regarding the effectiveness of these compounds, so the results are mainly based on hearsay and a placebo effect. They are marketed towards eco-conscious or green consumers looking for a natural solution.

Saw palmetto is a plant native to North America whose berries contain an active ingredient many believe to be effective against the hormonal causes of hair loss. It is understood that it may block the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme, responsible for allowing testosterone to convert into dihydrotestosterone, or DHT. DHT is the key factor contributing to androgenic alopecia.  Lab studies have shown it can inhibit the enzyme, but not necessarily make hair grow.

Ergothioneine is a still newer discovery within the hair loss industry. Ergothioneine is an amino acid that when ingested or applied topically, has been shown to possibly improve and maintain hair growth. More research needs to be conducted, but so far it’s proving to be a viable candidate in the hair growth improvement market.

Verbascoside is a compound found in the extracts of the lilac flower, and is also a newer discovery within the hair loss industry. Considered a safer, natural form of treatment, verbascoside acts as a powerful inhibitor of the 5-alpha-reductaseenzyme, and in turn slows and prevents the conversion of testosterone to DHT.  Verbascoside also acts as an effective antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, acting against the formation of fungus that can cause itchiness, excess sebum, and ease the feeling of extra oiliness. With its multiple functions, a product with verbascoside can prove to be highly beneficial for both genders.

Proven, realistic solutions to hair loss

MD Lash Factor has recognized that natural ingredients such as saw palmetto, ergothioneine, and verbascoside can be combined to provide a very safe solution to hair loss and promote its growth, as well as healthier looking strands. 

• The certified organic MD NutriHair supplements contain Verbascoside and Stem Cell Technology for extracts free from pesticide, heavy metals and toxins. 

• MD Revitalizing Shampoo and Conditioner contain Glutathionate, Sacha Extract, and Saw Palmetto among others to promote fuller, thicker, looking hair, decrease inflammation to relieve itchy scalp, strengthens hair follicles, fights premature hair loss, and block excess scalp oil production for less frequent shampooing.

• Clinically tested MD Hair Restoration System is physician formulated and designed to improve your hair's appearance of thickness, fullness and length in as little as 4 weeks. This unique two step leave-in system energizes your hair follicles with Cytokines, Peptides, Active Plant Marine Extracts, and Ergothioneine, and boasts improved hair density by over 70%, as well as results as early as 30 days.