Hair Loss

Hair loss, also known as alopecia, can occur for a range of reasons. Understanding the underlying cause can help determine the best treatment approach. Below are the most common causes:

1. Hereditary Hair Loss (Male- and Female-Pattern Baldness)

The most common cause of hair loss is a genetic condition called male-pattern baldness or female-pattern baldness. This form of hair loss develops gradually and follows a predictable pattern:

• Men often experience a receding hairline and thinning at the crown, which may progress to complete baldness.
• Women typically notice overall thinning, especially on the top of the scalp.
  Genetics influence not only the likelihood of developing hair loss but also the age it starts, how fast it progresses, and the extent of the hair loss. Treatments like Finasteride (Propecia) and Minoxidil (Regaine) are commonly used for this type.
  
  

2. Hormonal Changes

Temporary hair loss can occur due to hormonal shifts, including:

• Pregnancy
• Childbirth
• Menopause
• Thyroid disorders

These forms of hair loss are usually reversible once hormone levels stabilise.

3. Medical Conditions

Certain medical issues can lead to hair loss:

• Alopecia areata – An autoimmune condition where the body attacks its own hair follicles, causing sudden bald patches.
• Scarring alopecia – Permanent hair loss caused by conditions like lichen planus or sarcoidosis, which damage the scalp and hair follicles.
• Fungal infections – Scalp ringworm can also result in hair loss, but this typically reverses once the infection is treated.
  
  

4. Medications

Hair loss may be a side effect of some medications, including those used for:

• Heart conditions
• Cancer (chemotherapy)
• Depression
• Arthritis
• Excessive Vitamin A intake
  
  

If you’re experiencing hair loss while on medication, consult your GP or pharmacist for advice.

There are different types of alopecia, each with distinct causes and symptoms:

• Male- and Female-Pattern Baldness – Most common type, often hereditary.
• Alopecia Areata – Sudden patchy hair loss due to autoimmune response.
• Scarring Alopecia – Hair loss from inflammatory conditions that damage hair follicles permanently.
• Anagen Effluvium – Rapid hair loss during the growth phase, often due to chemotherapy.
• Telogen Effluvium – Temporary hair shedding following stress, illness, or hormonal changes.

Treatment Options

The most effective treatments available in the UK for hereditary hair loss include:

• Finasteride (Propecia) – A prescription-only tablet for men that reduces levels of DHT.
• Minoxidil (Regaine) – A topical solution suitable for both men and women that stimulates hair growth.
  
  

Take Control of Your Hair Loss with 123Meds - If you're concerned about hair loss, our UK-based online service offers safe, discreet access to clinically proven treatments—all from the comfort of your home.

Finasteride (Propecia)

Finasteride 1mg, also known by the brand name Propecia, is a clinically proven treatment for male pattern baldness. It works by reducing levels of DHT (dihydrotestosterone), the hormone responsible for hair follicle shrinkage in hereditary hair loss.

Finasteride is available through 123Meds following a short online consultation with one of our prescribers.
No prior prescription is required—our team will review your assessment and issue one if appropriate.
Proven to stop hair loss and promote regrowth in up to 90% of men.

Minoxidil (Regaine)

Minoxidil, sold under the brand name Regaine, is a non-prescription topical treatment used to stimulate hair growth and prevent further thinning.

• Regaine Foam for Men (5%) – Extra strength formula designed for male pattern hair loss.
• Regaine Solution for Women (2%) – Lower strength version suitable for female-pattern hair loss.

It is applied directly to the scalp and can be used alone or alongside finasteride in men.

Corticosteroid Injections

In cases where hair loss is due to inflammatory conditions (e.g. alopecia areata), a healthcare professional may recommend corticosteroid injections into the scalp to suppress the immune response and promote regrowth.

Surgical Procedures

Hair Transplantation

This is a surgical option where individual hair follicles are taken from areas with healthy hair growth (often the back of the head) and transplanted to thinning or bald areas.

Scalp Reduction

This involves surgically removing bald patches of the scalp and stretching areas with active hair growth to cover the gap.

Laser Therapy

Low-level laser treatment can stimulate living hair follicles and improve hair density. However, this is only effective on follicles that are still viable.

Scalp Expansion

A more advanced surgical approach where devices are placed under the scalp to stretch skin and reduce baldness. This is usually reserved for severe or complex cases.

Which Hair Loss Treatment Is Right for You?

At 123Meds, we provide safe, convenient access to proven hair loss treatments, including prescription options like Finasteride (Propecia). Our online consultation process is fast, discreet, and reviewed by UK-registered prescribers.

Take the first step towards restoring your hair and confidence—start your free assessment today.