Hair Growth: What Really Works and What to Try First

You lose about 50–100 hairs a day — that's normal. But if your part looks wider, your ponytail feels thinner, or you spot sudden patches, it's worth taking action. You don't need miracles; you need a clear plan that combines simple habits, safe treatments, and the right medical checks.

What to try first

Start with the basics. Improve your diet (lean protein, iron, vitamin D, and zinc matter for hair), manage stress, and sleep well. Avoid tight ponytails and daily harsh heat or chemical treatments. Use a gentle shampoo and a lightweight conditioner — over-washing strips oils, under-washing traps dirt. Try a soft brush and avoid tugging when wet.

Topical minoxidil is an easy next step for many people. It’s available over the counter, usually twice a day, and needs consistent use for 3–6 months to see results. Expect gradual thickening rather than instant regrowth. Some people get scalp irritation; stop and check with a clinician if that happens. For men, prescription finasteride can help, but it needs a doctor’s supervision because of possible side effects.

Supplements, procedures, and safety

Supplements like biotin, iron, zinc, and vitamin D can help if you have a true deficiency — not as a miracle cure. High doses aren't harmless, so test levels before you start high-dose supplements. Some people explore herbal options like saw palmetto or indole-3-carbinol to support hormone balance; evidence varies and you should talk to your doctor first. If you’re curious about rarely discussed options from our articles, search for clinical safety and dosing information on GoodRxMedicine.

When simple measures aren’t enough, clinic procedures exist: platelet-rich plasma (PRP), microneedling, and low-level laser therapy can boost results for some people. Hair transplants work well for stable pattern hair loss but are costly and need an experienced surgeon. Any procedure carries risk — get consultations, ask for before-and-after photos, and compare follow-up plans.

Some scalp issues look like hair loss but are treatable in other ways: fungal infections, scalp psoriasis, or acne can cause shedding or breakage. Treatments like medicated shampoos or prescription creams can fix the problem and restore hair. Note that strong acne or psoriasis meds can affect hair too, so discuss trade-offs with your clinician.

When should you see a doctor? If hair loss is sudden, patchy, rapid, or comes with itching, pain, or visible scalp changes, see a dermatologist or your primary care doctor. They’ll check for thyroid disease, anemia, autoimmune causes, and medication side effects. A correct diagnosis speeds the right treatment and avoids wasted time and money.

If you want clear next steps, make a short checklist: 1) Improve diet and sleep, 2) Cut damaging styling habits, 3) Try topical minoxidil for 3–6 months, 4) Test for deficiencies and hormone issues, 5) Consult a clinician before prescription meds or procedures. GoodRxMedicine has plain guides on supplements, topical treatments, and safety if you want to read more or compare options.