Medications for Hair Loss
This guide is aimed at helping you learn more about hair loss medications
A confidential chat with a clinical member of the Growth Factor Team
Understanding hair loss medications and deciding whether to use them and which ones and when can be a minefield. Let's try to clarify which medications are commonly used, what they do, who they help and when, how to use and what to expect.
Which Medications Might Help Me the Most?
At Growth Factor Hair Clinic, we like to take a personalised medicine approach, rather than a try-it-and-see approach.
If you have Andogenetic Alopecia, Telogen Effluvium or Alopecia Areata, we may suggest the Fagron TrichoTest DNA test to guide your medication choices.
For more information about the TrichoTest DNA test, please click here.
Your TrichoTest results report will tell us which medications you may want to consider using.
Minoxidil
Therapy can help you:
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Understand and process the emotional shock of hair loss
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Learn effective ways to manage anxiety, stress, and low mood.
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Build confidence and self-compassion.
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Cope with fear about the future and uncertainty
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Reduce avoidance of everyday situations
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Handle reactions from others
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Feel more in control again
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Improve relationships affected by stress or withdrawal
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Navigate social or workplace challenges that feel harder since losing hair.
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Talk honestly without feeling like a burden to family or friends
Every person’s experience is unique. Each session will be tailored to you - whether your hair loss is new or something you’ve been living with for years.
Finasteride
Hair is closely tied to identity, gender, culture and how we see ourselves. When it changes or is lost, it can feel like losing part of who you are.
Like any significant loss, hair loss can trigger difficult feelings and it's ok to ask for help.
Dutasteride
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Initial Phone Call. A free, relaxed phone chat with Dr Helen at a pre-planned convenient time.
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Assessment Appointment. The initial appointment focuses on developing a shared understanding of your current difficulties and an agreed way forward for therapy.
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Therapy Session Appointments. Therapy generally lasts 6-12 sessions in total but can be fewer or more depending on your need.
Therapy is available online primarily. You can make yourself comfortable at home or anywhere you choose.
If you would prefer in person, this may also be available and can be discussed in your Initial Phone Call.
How much does expert Clinical Psychologist Therapy
for Alopecia cost?
Clinical Psychologists have extensive doctoral level training and you can expect expert help including coping strategies tailored to you to help you manage your feelings about hair loss.
Initial Phone Call (15 minutes) £0
Online therapy sessions are £110 each.
Dr Watkins is a registered provider with Aviva, AXA, Vitality and WPA insurance companies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do i need a diagnosis of alopecia to access this therapy?
No. You're welcome whether you have undiagnosed hair loss or an alopecia diagnosis.
Is this service only for existing Growth Factor Hair Clinic?
No. Psychological therapy is open to anyone affected by hair loss. You don't need to be receiving any other treatment from the clinic.
What is therapy like?
Therapy sessions are collaborative and tailored to you. They provide a confidential space to explore how hair loss has affected you and to develop ways of coping. Sessions are structured tailored to your needs and goals.
How many therapy sessions will I need?
6-12 sessions is average.
Other Emotional Help
Support groups like Alopecia UK groups can be helpful to many people.
Click here for details of your nearest group: Find an Alopecia Support Group
NHS psychological support provision varies across the UK, but you can ask your GP for help.
There are general mental health support and self-care tools available on Mind.org.uk
Urgent Help / Crisis
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NHS 111 for urgent mental health support
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Your GP
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A&E
If You're Not Ready Yet
If you've just found this page, you may want some time to think about whether this service is something that might help you. You are welcome to come back another time. We will be here.
If you have any questions, you can book a free initial phone call or contact us on psychology@growthfactorhairclinic.co.uk.