TL;DR
Hair loss affects approximately 85 percent of men and 40 percent of women by the age of 50, creating enormous demand for effective treatments. This guide reviews the evidence behind…
Last updated: 5 March 2026
Hair loss affects approximately 85 percent of men and 40 percent of women by the age of 50, creating enormous demand for effective treatments. This guide reviews the evidence behind current hair restoration therapies from established pharmacological options to cutting-edge regenerative approaches.
Reviewed by the Axiom Aesthetics Clinical Team | Last updated: February 2026
Understanding Hair Loss Physiology
Androgenetic alopecia, the most common form, results from dihydrotestosterone (DHT) action on genetically susceptible follicles, triggering miniaturisation over successive growth cycles. The hair cycle comprises anagen (growth, 2-7 years), catagen (regression, 2-3 weeks), and telogen (rest, 3 months). In AGA, anagen shortens progressively while telogen remains constant, resulting in visibly thinning hair.
Established Pharmacological Treatments
Minoxidil: Mechanism and Evidence
Originally an antihypertensive, minoxidil works through vasodilation, VEGF upregulation, anagen prolongation, and follicular stem cell stimulation. A 2024 meta-analysis of 47 RCTs confirmed 14-18 hairs per square centimetre increase versus placebo, with approximately 60 percent response rate. Low-dose oral minoxidil (0.625-5mg daily) shows superior efficacy to topical, gaining significant clinical traction.
Finasteride and Dutasteride
5-alpha reductase inhibitors block testosterone-to-DHT conversion. Finasteride (1mg daily) reduces scalp DHT by approximately 70 percent. Dutasteride (0.5mg daily) inhibits both isoforms, reducing DHT by 90 percent with marginally superior efficacy in head-to-head trials.
PRP for Hair Restoration
Mechanism of Action
PRP concentrates platelet growth factors (PDGF, TGF-beta, VEGF, EGF, IGF-1) to stimulate follicular stem cells, promote angiogenesis, extend anagen, and reduce inflammation. Concentration is typically 3-8 times that of whole blood.
Clinical Evidence
A 2023 Cochrane review of 22 RCTs showed 29-37 hairs per square centimetre increase after 3-6 monthly sessions. Optimal protocol: monthly for 3-4 months, then maintenance every 3-6 months. PRP combined with minoxidil produces superior results to either treatment alone.
Our PRP Protocol
At Axiom Aesthetics, we use double-spin centrifugation for consistent platelet concentration. We draw 20-40ml blood, process it, and inject approximately 5-8ml across the affected scalp using mesotherapy technique with 0.1ml aliquots at 1cm intervals. The procedure takes 45 minutes with minimal discomfort.
Emerging Therapies
Exosome Therapy
Exosomes are extracellular vesicles containing growth factors, mRNA, and microRNA mediating cell communication. Hair follicle-derived exosomes show remarkable stem cell stimulation in preclinical studies. Early clinical trials are promising but therapy remains investigational.
Low-Level Laser Therapy
FDA-cleared devices deliver photobiomodulation at 650-670nm to stimulate mitochondrial activity. Multiple RCTs show modest but statistically significant 15-20 hairs per square centimetre increase.
Stem Cell Therapies
Adipose-derived stem cells and conditioned media show improvements in preliminary studies, though standardisation of protocols and long-term data are still needed before widespread clinical adoption.
Building an Effective Treatment Strategy
The most effective approach combines complementary therapies: minoxidil as foundation, finasteride or dutasteride for DHT suppression, PRP for growth factor stimulation, and LLLT for mitochondrial support. This multi-modal approach addresses hair loss through different mechanisms simultaneously for optimal outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long before I see PRP results?
Most patients notice reduced shedding within 4-6 weeks and visible density improvement at 3-6 months. Maximum results typically appear at 12 months. Complete the initial 3-4 session course before assessing efficacy.
Can PRP regrow hair in completely bald areas?
PRP is most effective for miniaturised follicles retaining stem cell populations. Completely bald areas where follicles have been destroyed are unlikely to respond. Early intervention produces the best results.
Is minoxidil or finasteride more effective?
In men, finasteride is generally more effective as a single agent by addressing the root cause (DHT). Combination therapy with both is most effective. In women, minoxidil is the primary option as finasteride is contraindicated in women of childbearing potential.
Are hair loss treatments permanent?
Most medical treatments must be continued to maintain results. Stopping minoxidil or finasteride leads to gradual return to pre-treatment state over 6-12 months. PRP requires maintenance sessions. Only surgical hair transplantation provides permanent follicle redistribution.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual results vary. Always consult a qualified medical or aesthetic professional for personalised advice.
This content is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual results may vary. Always consult with a qualified medical professional before undergoing any treatment. All treatments carry potential risks and side effects which will be fully discussed during your consultation.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual results may vary. Always consult with a qualified medical professional before undergoing any treatment. All treatments carry potential risks and side effects which will be fully discussed during your consultation.