Many guys are on a quest to boost their hair growth and enhance its overall health. Sound like something you're interested in? We’re here to help!

Let’s dive into proven strategies that can help accelerate hair growth for men. We’ll unpack the science behind male hair growth and explore the best practices, diets, and hair care routines to help nurture your hair to grow thicker and healthier.

Whether you’re dealing with hair loss or simply want to enhance your hair’s appearance, get ready to transform your hair growth journey with these essential tips.

Understanding hair growth in men

Most people’s hair grows at the same rate, around 0.35mm per day.¹ It’s completely normal to shed around 100 hairs daily, as this is part of the natural hair cycle. This cycle includes the anagen (growth), catagen (transitional), and telogen (resting) phases. While these phases are similar for everyone, the length of each phase can vary from person to person and sometimes between genders.²

As a man, you might be more prone to male androgenetic alopecia (MAA), commonly known as male pattern baldness.³ This often results in a receding hairline and thinning on the crown, typically forming an “M” shape. The key player in MAA is the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which causes hair follicles to miniaturize and shortens the hair growth phase.⁴

Hair loss has been shown to significantly impact self-esteem and emotional well-being for both men and women.⁵ Understanding the nuances of hair growth and loss is important, not just for finding effective treatments, but also for providing the right psychological support if you’re experiencing hair loss.

How you can improve your hair growth

To improve your hair growth, it’s smart to focus on good nutrition. Nutrition is well-known to impact the health of your hair.⁶ If you’re experiencing hair loss, it’s important to look at your medical and dietary history for potential nutrient deficiencies, as these can affect your hair’s structure and growth.⁷

For example, conditions like acute telogen effluvium, which involves rapid hair loss, can result from drastic dietary changes, such as significant weight loss or a drop in protein intake.⁸ An iron deficiency can affect hair follicle function since iron plays a role in DNA synthesis, while zinc is crucial for protein synthesis and cell division, and its deficiency can lead to hair loss.⁹

Chronic hair loss issues like androgenetic alopecia and alopecia areata may also be connected to nutritional deficiencies.¹⁰ Even overdoing certain nutrients—like selenium, vitamin A, and vitamin E—has been linked to hair loss and other health issues.¹¹

Be cautious before supplementing

While correcting these deficiencies is essential, you should be cautious about using supplements unless a deficiency is confirmed.

Currently, there’s a lack of definitive research supporting the benefits of nutrient supplementation for hair growth without a deficiency. So, it’s wise to be aware of the potential risks of unsupervised supplementation.

Always approach supplements with caution and seek medical advice, especially if you’re unsure about a deficiency. Remember, while nutrition is key for maintaining healthy hair, use good judgment when supplementing alongside professional guidance.¹²

Natural remedies and DIY treatments

There are many options when it comes to exploring natural remedies for hair growth, and each has unique potential benefits.

Let’s dive into some of them.¹³

• Azelaic acid: Found in grains and certain fungi, azelaic acid not only helps your skin but might also promote hair growth. It works by causing a slight irritation that can lead to better hair growth and also acts against hormones that contribute to hair loss.

• Garlic (allium sativum): Not just great for adding zing to your food, garlic can also boost scalp circulation. This increase in blood flow can potentially enhance hair growth, thanks to its vasodilation effects.

• Olive oil: A staple in many kitchens, olive oil may be able to improve your hair too, especially if you’re dealing with scalp issues like psoriasis. It may help reduce flakiness and stabilize hair shedding.

• Pumpkin seed oil (PSO): Loaded with nutrients, PSO has shown effectiveness in improving hair growth in men, especially those with mild to moderate male pattern baldness. It might work by impacting certain hair loss hormones.

• Rosemary oil: This isn’t just a herb for your roast! Rosemary oil boosts blood flow in the tiny capillaries of your scalp and has been found to be as effective as minoxidil, a common hair growth treatment, in managing baldness.

• Tea tree oil: Known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, tea tree oil can be a game-changer, especially when combined with other treatments like diclofenac and minoxidil.

These natural remedies offer various ways to potentially boost your hair growth. They work through different mechanisms and have shown varying levels of success. It’s all about finding the right one for your hair type and condition. Remember, what works for one person might not work for another, so it’s always good to speak with a medical professional first to get expert advice.

Topical treatments for hair loss in men

If you’re on the hunt for ways to tackle male hair loss, you’ll be glad to know there are several topical treatments you can consider. Each has its own way of working and, depending on your individual situation, one or more of these could be just what you need.

Minoxidil

Minoxidil is a bit of a multitasker. Initially used for high blood pressure, it’s also great at helping regrow hair, particularly if you’re dealing with common male pattern hair loss.¹⁴ It’s applied directly to your scalp and has been proven to stimulate hair growth for many patients. But remember, it doesn’t work the same for every type of hair loss.¹⁵

Ketoconazole

Then there’s ketoconazole. Originally known for its antifungal properties, it’s shown some promising results in hair loss treatment. When applied topically, studies suggest that ketoconazole can increase the diameter of hair shafts, giving your hair a thicker and fuller appearance. It seems to work by targeting scalp microorganisms and reducing inflammation, both of which can contribute to hair loss.

Some men have even noticed a significant improvement in their hair’s overall condition based on both photographic assessments and their own observations.¹⁶ However, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution and more extensive studies are needed to fully understand how it works. So, if you’re considering ketoconazole, it’s a good idea to chat with your doctor first to see if it’s right for your specific hair loss situation.

Spironolactone

Spironolactone could be another option to consider. It’s particularly useful for pattern baldness and can be used in both pill and topical forms.¹⁷ The topical route is generally safer and is a good choice if you’re trying to avoid side effects. Plus, when teamed up with treatments like minoxidil, it can really help improve hair growth and density.¹⁸

Caffeine

And, let’s not forget about caffeine! Yes, the same stuff that keeps you awake can also energize your hair follicles. Used in a topical solution, it can promote hair growth by keeping your hair cells active and prolonging their growth phase, combating the hormonal effects that lead to hair loss.¹⁹

If you’re navigating the world of hair loss treatments, there’s a variety of topical options to explore. Each one works a bit differently, and it’s all about finding the right fit for you. Just remember to connect with a healthcare professional before diving into any new treatment plan—they’ll help guide you on the right path for your hair journey!

Professional treatments

When it comes to professional hair loss treatments, there are several intriguing options. First up, there’s microneedling. This involves tiny needles creating micro-punctures on your scalp. Sounds intense, but it’s a technique to kickstart hair growth, and it gets even better when paired with treatments like minoxidil.²⁰

Then, there’s low-level laser therapy, also called red light therapy. This isn’t your average light show—it’s a new way to reduce inflammation and amp up blood flow to your scalp, potentially boosting hair density.²¹

Next on the list is platelet-rich plasma treatment. This one’s pretty high-tech. Your own platelets get injected back into your scalp, releasing growth factors that cheer on hair growth. It’s often teamed up with other treatments for a tag-team effect on hair loss.²²

And lastly, have you heard about fractional lasers? These guys—usually stars in the skincare world—may also help in the hair loss arena.²³

Each of these treatments has its own unique flair in the battle against hair loss, and they’ve all had their moments of success in various studies. If you’re thinking about professional treatment, these options are definitely worth a chat with your doctor. Just remember, what works wonders for one person might be different for another, so it’s all about finding the best fit for your hair's needs!

Hair care mistakes to avoid and best practices

Knowing the do’s of haircare is important, but it’s also important to know what to avoid when it comes to caring for your hair and helping it grow faster. Here are some tips for both when it comes to caring for your hair:²⁴

• When you’ve got long hair, try not to rub shampoo all the way down its length. Instead, focus on massaging the shampoo into your scalp and let it flow down as you rinse.

• Always follow up with a conditioner to keep your hair healthy and hydrated.

• After washing, avoid rubbing your hair with a towel. Just wrap it gently to soak up the water and let it air dry.

• If you have straight hair, wait until it’s partly dry before gently combing it with a wide-tooth comb. For those with textured or curly hair, it’s best to comb while it’s still damp.

• Try to avoid hairstyles that need products for long-lasting hold.

• Brushing your hair too much or pulling it too hard can cause damage. Instead, use a wide-tooth comb and some moisturizing conditioner to gently get rid of tangles.

• If you’re a swimmer, protect your hair from pool chemicals with a swim cap and use a special shampoo and deep conditioner afterward.

If you’re still not seeing an improvement in your hair’s health, it might be a good idea to talk to a medical professional, especially if you’re worried about thinning hair or hair loss.

Enjoy personalized hair care with Curology

Embark on a journey to healthier, stronger hair with Curology’s Hair Formulaᴿˣ. Understanding that hair loss is a multifaceted issue, we offer a holistic approach to hair care. Along with a nutrient-rich diet and good hair care practices, addressing hair loss effectively requires targeted treatment.

Hair Formulaᴿˣ is our personalized prescription solution for hair loss, designed to tackle various causes of hair thinning. It combines 3 clinically proven active ingredients. This dermatologist-designed treatment is tailored to your unique hair needs.

Get your personalized skincare routine with Curology

Get your personalized skincare routine with Curology

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Experience the difference with our tailored approach to hair care. Begin with our hair quiz and step towards a fuller, more confident you with Hair Formulaᴿˣ!

P.S. We did the homework so you don’t have to:

1. Murphrey, M.B., et al. Anatomy, Hair. StatPearls. (2023, August 14).

2. Murphrey, M.B., et al. Anatomy, Hair. StatPearls. Ibid.

3. Ho, C.H., et al. Androgenetic Alopecia. StatPearls. (2024, January 7).

4. Ho, C.H., et al. Androgenetic Alopecia. StatPearls. Ibid.

5. Dhami, L. Psychology of Hair Loss Patients and Importance of Counseling. Indian J Plast Surg. (2021, December 31).

6. Guo, E.L. and Katta, R. Diet and hair loss: effects of nutrient deficiency and supplement use. Dermatol Pract Concept. (2017, January 31).

7. Guo, E.L. and Katta, R. Diet and hair loss: effects of nutrient deficiency and supplement use. Dermatol Pract Concept. Ibid.

8. Guo, E.L. and Katta, R. Diet and hair loss: effects of nutrient deficiency and supplement use. Dermatol Pract Concept. Ibid.

9. Guo, E.L. and Katta, R. Diet and hair loss: effects of nutrient deficiency and supplement use. Dermatol Pract Concept. Ibid.

10. Guo, E.L. and Katta, R. Diet and hair loss: effects of nutrient deficiency and supplement use. Dermatol Pract Concept. Ibid.

11. Guo, E.L. and Katta, R. Diet and hair loss: effects of nutrient deficiency and supplement use. Dermatol Pract Concept. Ibid.

12. Guo, E.L. and Katta, R. Diet and hair loss: effects of nutrient deficiency and supplement use. Dermatol Pract Concept. Ibid.

13. Ezekwe, N., et al. The Use of Natural Ingredients in the Treatment of Alopecias with an Emphasis on Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia: A Systematic Review. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. (2020, August 1).

14. Suchonwanit, P., et al. Minoxidil and its use in hair disorders: a review. Drug Des Devel Ther. (2019, August 9).

15. Suchonwanit, P., et al. Minoxidil and its use in hair disorders: a review. Drug Des Devel Ther. Ibid.

16. Fields, J.R., et al. Topical ketoconazole for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: A systematic review. Dermatol Ther. (January 2020).

17. Wang, C., et al. The Efficacy and Safety of Oral and Topical Spironolactone in Androgenetic Alopecia Treatment: A Systematic Review. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. (2023, March 9).

18. Wang, C., et al. The Efficacy and Safety of Oral and Topical Spironolactone in Androgenetic Alopecia Treatment: A Systematic Review. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. Ibid.

19. Dhurat, R., et al. An Open-Label Randomized Multicenter Study Assessing the Noninferiority of a Caffeine-Based Topical Liquid 0.2% versus Minoxidil 5% Solution in Male Androgenetic Alopecia. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. (2017, October 21).

20. Wall, D., et al. Advances in hair growth. Fac Rev. (2022, January 12).

21. Wall, D., et al. Advances in hair growth. Fac Rev. Ibid.

22. Wall, D., et al. Advances in hair growth. Fac Rev. Ibid.

23. Wall, D., et al. Advances in hair growth. Fac Rev. Ibid.

24. American Academy of Dermatology Association. 10 HAIR CARE HABITS THAT CAN DAMAGE YOUR HAIR. (n.d).

25. Guo, E.L. and Katta, R. Diet and hair loss: effects of nutrient deficiency and supplement use. Dermatol Pract Concept. Ibid.

26. Ezekwe, N., et al. The Use of Natural Ingredients in the Treatment of Alopecias with an Emphasis on Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia: A Systematic Review. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. Ibid.

27. Guo, E.L. and Katta, R. Diet and hair loss: effects of nutrient deficiency and supplement use. Dermatol Pract Concept. Ibid.

28. Suchonwanit, P., et al. Minoxidil and its use in hair disorders: a review. Drug Des Devel Ther. Ibid.

29. Dhurat, R., et al. An Open-Label Randomized Multicenter Study Assessing the Noninferiority of a Caffeine-Based Topical Liquid 0.2% versus Minoxidil 5% Solution in Male Androgenetic Alopecia. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. Ibid.

30. Murphrey, M.B., et al. Anatomy, Hair. StatPearls. Ibid.

Elise Griffin is a certified physician assistant at Curology. She received her Master of Medical Science in physician assistant studies from Nova Southeastern University in Jacksonville, FL. 

*Active ingredients have been studied separately. Results may vary. Subscription required. Subject to medical consultation. Restrictions apply. See website for full details and important safety information.

Minoxidil Disclaimer: Ingredients subject to medical consultation. Do not use if pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive.

Spironolactone Disclaimer: Ingredients subject to medical consultation. Do not use if pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive.

Written by

Curology Team

Medically reviewed by

Elise Griffin, PA-C