Hair Regrow : OTC treatments and homemade remedies

If you are unable to contact a trichologist who can give you professional advice on how to regrow your hair and prevent further hair loss, then you will just have to turn to over-the-counter treatments and homemade remedies. Of course, that does not mean these are not going to work for you. Just incorporate them into your everyday regimen and give them enough time (at least 6 months) to take effect.

OTC Treatments

Several products that you can purchase in the drug store can possibly help stimulate hair growth. Unfortunately, all of them have to be continually used so that you can enjoy their benefits. Stopping them will bring you back to square one.

The most popular OTC hair loss treatment caused by genetics is minoxidil (commonly sold under the brand name Rogaine). It is sprayed on the scalp and has to be applied twice each day. However, if you are a woman who is pregnant or nursing, you should not use it as it can cause birth defects.

Saw palmetto extract is an herbal OTC treatment which you can take orally in pill, capsule, or liquid form. Saw palmetto is a Native American medicinal plant that seems to block an enzyme that causes testosterone to convert to DHT (which leads to hair loss). It is advised that 200 milligrams should be taken twice per day.

Alpecin is a company that offers a shampoo that contains caffeine, which is said to help stimulate the hair follicles for hair growth. However, insufficient research can prove this claim to be effective.

A fancy approach to promoting hair loss is by using a laser comb, which gives off a soft laser light meant to stimulate the follicles into producing hair. Make sure to read a lot of reviews and do plenty of research before purchasing and using a laser comb.

One interesting OTC treatment that few people know of is Nizoral, which actually contains ketoconazole, a compound that is both anti-fungal and has the ability to minimize testosterone production (which causes hair loss). The prescription topical ointment ketoconazole is itself most effective, but if you only have access to Nizoral, then you can use that at least once a week instead.

Homemade Remedies

If you want to make remedies for your hair loss at home using safe and organic products, then you can try any of the following suggestions.

One is by growing Aloe Vera at home. Break open an Aloe Vera leaf and rub the gel from inside it on the scalp. Leave on for an hour, then gently rinse off. Aloe Vera helps balance the pH level of the scalp as well as moisturize it. It primarily reduces your risk of dandruff, which helps your follicles produce hair better.

Onion juice is another hair loss remedy that many people secretly use all the time. Onion contains high levels of sulfur, and by applying it on the skin, it is said to help boost blood flow, minimize inflammation, and stimulate the hair follicles. Onion also has antibacterial properties that can help treat any infections you might have on the scalp. Simply grate the onion and collect the juice in a bowl. With clean fingers, dab it on your scalp and leave it on for at least an hour before rinsing off. Some people like to combine Aloe Vera gel and onion juice before they apply it on their scalp.

Drinking beetroot juice regularly is another piece of advice for hair loss sufferers. It has high levels of vitamin B, C, and protein, calcium, phosphorus, and potassium. Steam the beetroots and then pop them in your blender or juicer.

Coconut milk is a common treatment in Southeast Asia for healthy hair, and it may even promote stronger hair strands. Purchase freshly grated coconut from your local market and then simmer it in water for 5 minutes. Strain and set aside to cool. Then, rub it on your scalp and let it sit for an hour before rinsing off.

The use of cayenne pepper may sound crazy, but some people swear by it. They combine it with a gel base such as Aloe Vera and apply it directly on the scalp. Naturally, the spiciness of the pepper would cause a tingly sensation that might stimulate the hair follicles and boost blood flow to the scalp. Rinse off after a few minutes or as soon as you feel the tingly sensation.

Look into Hair growth : Prescription and Surgical Treatments