In the last blog of our Baldness Decoded series, we uncovered the real reasons behind hair loss; whether it’s genetics, hormones, or lifestyle. Now comes the next big question: What can you actually do about it?
Hair loss treatments have been around for centuries, from ancient Egyptian remedies of ground-up herbs to modern-day pills and transplants. Some solutions are backed by science, while others rely more on wishful thinking. If you’ve ever searched for hair loss treatments, you’ve probably come across miracle shampoos, laser helmets, and even caffeine-infused tonics promising to regrow a full head of hair overnight. But here’s the truth: only a handful of treatments actually work.
Whether you’re looking to slow down hair loss, regrow what’s been lost, or embrace the bald look with confidence, this guide will walk you through the best options, without the false hope.
What Really Works: The Science of Hair Regrowth
If you’re in the early stages of hair thinning, the good news is that there are clinically proven treatments that can help. But, none of them work overnight, and consistency is key.
Take Minoxidil, for example. Originally developed to treat high blood pressure, this topical solution was found to have an unexpected side effect—hair regrowth. Today, it’s one of the most well-known treatments for male pattern baldness. It doesn’t reverse hair loss completely, but it does slow down the process and, in some cases, help thicken existing hair. The catch? You have to keep using it. Stop applying Minoxidil, and the hair you’ve gained will start falling out again.
Then there’s Finasteride, a prescription pill that tackles hair loss at the root—literally. It works by blocking DHT, the hormone responsible for shrinking hair follicles in men with male pattern baldness. While it’s been proven to be effective, it’s not for everyone. Some men experience side effects, and if you stop taking it, hair loss resumes. Still, for those who tolerate it well, it’s one of the most powerful tools for preventing further thinning.
And then we have hair transplants. This is the only permanent solution. Unlike creams or pills, a transplant physically relocates healthy hair follicles from one part of the scalp to another. It’s come a long way from the pluggy, unnatural-looking results of the past. Today’s techniques, like Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE), create a seamless, natural appearance. The downside? It’s expensive, and while it moves hair to new areas, it doesn’t stop existing follicles from shrinking. That means most men who get transplants still rely on Finasteride or Minoxidil to maintain the results.
So, if you’re looking for medical solutions, these are the ones that actually work. Everything else? It’s mostly marketing scams.
Can Lifestyle Changes Help?
While no diet or exercise routine will completely stop male pattern baldness, the way you take care of your body does play a role in how fast hair loss progresses. Your hair, just like the rest of your body, depends on proper nutrition.
A deficiency in iron, for example, can lead to excessive shedding. The same goes for a lack of protein, since hair is made mostly of keratin, a protein-rich diet supports stronger, healthier strands. Biotin and Vitamin D deficiencies have also been linked to hair loss, which is why they’re often included in hair growth supplements. But before you start stocking up on expensive vitamins, remember that supplements won’t bring back lost hair—they only help if you’re lacking in those nutrients in the first place.
Stress is another factor that can contribute to hair loss. In the last blog, we talked about telogen effluvium, a condition where stress forces more hair into the shedding phase. While this type of hair loss is temporary, chronic stress can make thinning hair even worse. If you’ve been dealing with increased shedding after a major life event, poor sleep, or high anxiety, stress management could be a crucial part of your hair care routine.
Scalp health also plays a bigger role than most people realize. A clean, well-moisturized scalp provides the best environment for hair growth, while buildup from styling products or excessive oil can clog follicles, potentially worsening hair loss. Harsh shampoos that strip the scalp of natural oils can lead to inflammation, making hair appear even thinner. Switching to a gentler, sulfate-free shampoo and massaging the scalp to stimulate circulation won’t reverse baldness, but it can support overall hair health.
Making the Most of Thinning Hair
Not everyone wants to take medication or go through a hair transplant. If your hair is already thinning and you’re looking for ways to make it look its best, the right haircut and styling techniques can go a long way.
One of the biggest mistakes men make when dealing with hair loss is holding onto length in an attempt to cover up thinning areas. The problem? Longer hair actually makes hair loss more noticeable, especially when it starts looking wispy. Instead, a shorter, textured cut can create the illusion of thicker hair.
Barbers often recommend styles like the classic crop, where the hair is cut short and layered to add volume, or a faded cut that blends seamlessly with thinning areas. For men experiencing significant recession, a buzz cut can be the best hair-cut. It removes the contrast between thick and thin areas, making hair loss much less obvious.
The right styling products can also make a difference. Heavy gels and shiny pomades tend to clump hair together, exposing more of the scalp. Instead, lightweight, matte products like texturizing clays or dry shampoos add volume and create a fuller appearance. And for a quick fix, hair fibers—tiny, natural-colored fibers that adhere to existing hair—can instantly make hair look thicker for special occasions.
Owning the Bald Look
Not every man wants to fight hair loss, some embrace it with confidence. A clean-shaven look can be sharp and stylish, just look at Jason Statham or The Rock. But going bald doesn’t mean skipping grooming. A smooth, moisturized scalp keeps the look intentional, not neglected.
For added contrast, a well-groomed beard can frame the face. Whether it’s stubble or a full beard, regular trims make all the difference in keeping it sharp.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, dealing with hair loss is a personal journey. Some men choose to fight it with medication or transplants, while others embrace the change and make it part of their style. The most important thing? Confidence. Whether you’re working with what you’ve got or making the switch to a buzzed or bald look, the way you carry yourself makes all the difference.
If you’re not sure what the best approach is for you, Rendezvous Barbers in Toronto can help. Whether you need a cut that works with thinning hair, expert styling advice, or a clean shave that suits your face, our barbers know how to bring out the best in your look. No matter where you are in your hair journey, we’ve got you covered. Book your appointment today.
