Drug Store Solutions for Hair Thinning, Telogen Effluvium, & Alopecia

Treat Hair Loss With Drug Store Products

Simple Hair Loss Solutions: At-Home Remedies to Try Today
 
If you notice that your hair is thinning, or you’re finding more hair falling in the shower, you are likely to be alarmed. After all, your hairstyle can play a significant role in your overall appearance. Your self-esteem may even take a hit if your hair isn’t quite what it used to be.

Fortunately, there are at-home solutions for hair-thinning. Many of these drug-store hair loss solutions are affordable and easy-to-access. Take a look at the five research-backed hair loss products below, and you may just be well on your way to having the hair you want. 

Introduction to Hair Loss

Before diving into solutions, it’s helpful to understand just how common hair loss is. According to a 2022 study in The Journal of the Menopause Society, just over half of postmenopausal women experience female pattern hair loss. So, if you notice your hair thinning with age, you’re not alone. 

It’s also important to understand that hair growth occurs in cycles. As authors of a 2024 report from the National Library of Medicine have explained, hair grows during the anagen phase, rests during the telogen phase, and then sheds during the exogen phase. Hair that is shed during the exogen phase makes way for new hair growth, so some shedding is normal and healthy. However, if you notice increased hair shedding, you may be dealing with hair loss.

Simple Hair-Loss Solutions

If your hair is shedding more than usual, or you’re noticing thinning, it may be time to try some at-home hair loss solutions. These solutions can reduce hair shedding and help you to regrow healthy, strong hair. Some top choices are detailed below.

Pumpkin Seed Oil

Pumpkin seed oil is available in the form of a liquid supplement, as well as in capsule form. If you’re struggling with hair loss, you might consider using pumpkin seed oil at home. It’s available over-the-counter, and it won’t break the bank. 

Research has supported the use of pumpkin seed oil for reversing hair loss. A 2021 study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that pumpkin seed oil was effective for promoting hair growth in women. This simple solution may be the answer you’ve been seeking.

Saw Palmetto

Saw-palmetto has also been well-studied as a potential hair growth product. A report in a 2020 publication of Skin Appendage Disorders reviewed the results of multiple different studies that analyzed the effects of saw palmetto on hair growth. The results were quite promising. 

The studies under review revealed that saw palmetto significantly improved hair quality, total hair count, and hair density. Saw palmetto is available as a topical product that can be applied to the scalp, as well as in the form of pills or capsules taken by mouth. So, there is something for everyone when it comes to this proven hair-growth product. 

Collagen Peptides

Also available as an over-the-counter supplement, collagen peptides can promote hair growth. A study in a 2022 edition of the International Journal of Molecular Sciences found that collagen peptides were effective for preventing hair loss and stimulating hair growth.

A second study in a 2024 publication of the Archives of Biological Sciences confirmed the benefits of collagen. This study concluded that collagen can protect hair follicle cells in addition to improving hair growth and quality. Buy flavored collagen peptides at the grocery store and mix them in a shaker bottle with milk or water to enjoy these hair-growing effects. 

Caffeine Shampoo

Caffeine isn’t just beneficial for boosting energy and focus; it can also enhance the appearance of your hair. A 2019 study in the Korea Journal of Cosmetic Science found that caffeine stimulates activity in hair follicle cells.

In addition, caffeine shampoo was found in the study noted above to increase hair density, making it beneficial for growing hair and stopping the process of hair loss. Enjoy these benefits by washing your hair with a caffeine-containing shampoo. 

Rosemary Oil 

Rosemary essential oil has also been identified as potentially beneficial for hair loss. A 2015 study that compared rosemary oil to minoxidil, a medication used for hair loss, found that rosemary oil was equally effective when compared to minoxidil.

If you’re considering hair oiling, rosemary oil may be the answer. This oil has antioxidant properties and can nourish the hair and scalp, making it ideal for promoting hair health.

Concluding Thoughts

The hair growth products discussed in this article have been well-researched, so there is scientific evidence showing that they work. These products are available over-the-counter, so they are generally considered safe. However, it’s important to consult with your doctor if you have concerns about the safety of a particular supplement or product. Everyone’s medical needs are different, so the information in this article should not take the place of medical advice.

Finally, the products discussed herein may not work for everyone. If hair loss continues or doesn’t improve with over-the-counter products, it may be time to see a dermatologist. These specialists can evaluate and treat medical issues contributing to hair loss. They can assess whether you have a health condition that contributes to hair loss. If you do have a health condition, a dermatologist can determine an appropriate treatment regimen, which may include prescription medications for hair loss.