What Actually Works for Hair Loss? Minoxidil, PRP, Mesotherapy, Vitamins and Exosomes

Diagnosis first, then treatment

"What helps hair loss?" has no single answer because the type of shedding determines treatment: androgenetic (male/female pattern), telogen effluvium (temporary, after stress/birth/diet), nutritional deficiency, thyroid, etc. Wrong diagnosis means wrong treatment. See our hair-loss clinical roadmap post for the full pathway.

Method by method: what works, how strong is the evidence?

Key distinctions

• Minoxidil and finasteride form the strongest medical base. Not "miracles" — they need regular, continuous use, and gains reverse if stopped.
• PRP and mesotherapy support that base — strengthening existing follicles especially in early-mid stages. They don’t grow new hair in a fully bald (advanced) area.
• Vitamins help only with a proven deficiency; high-dose "just in case" vitamins add little and can carry risk.
• Shampoos help scalp health but don’t stop genetic loss alone.
• Exosomes are an exciting field, but standardised high-quality evidence is still maturing — be cautious of overblown promises.

Realistic expectations

No method "stops" genetic ageing; the goal is to slow shedding, strengthen existing hair, and increase density in suitable candidates. The best result usually comes from a combined, individualised plan.

This content is educational; treatment is chosen by a physician after examination and diagnosis.

FAQ

“If I pick one thing?” Depends on diagnosis; in androgenetic loss the evidence base is minoxidil (± finasteride). But the right answer is clarified on exam.

“Does PRP grow hair?” It strengthens existing follicles and slows shedding; it doesn’t create new follicles in a bald area.

“Are vitamins enough?” Only meaningful if you’re deficient. Without deficiency, not a standalone solution.