Walk down any health and beauty aisle and you’re bound to see product after product claiming to make your hair healthier, stronger, and longer. Some even promise to stop or reverse hair thinning and loss.

But not all products are on the up-and-up. Some companies make claims with little or no science to back them up. So how do you know which products and treatments are safe and effective for treating hair loss? Read on as we share how to avoid scams and find a treatment that really works.

Buyer Beware

Companies often use catchy terms and phrases to get your attention. Avoid products that make big promises and use words like “immediate”, “instant”, and “fast-acting”. Regrowing and improving the health of hair is a gradual process that requires patience.

Beware of false medical and scientific claims. Research any product that claims to be clinically tested or proven, or recommended by a medical professional.

Be wary of phony testimonials, reviews, and guarantees. This is a common marketing tactic used to entice you into buying a product. Besides, what works for one individual may not work as well or at all for another. If you’re not sure about a product or treatment, run it by your doctor who can get to the cause of your hair loss and recommend treatment options most likely to work for you.

Think Twice

• Herbal supplements: Many companies tout successful hair growth results from herbal supplements. While it’s true that certain supplements can help make your hair stronger (especially if you are deficient in a vitamin or nutrient), there is no research to support that they can regrow hair.
• Snake oil: No, we don’t mean actual oil from a snake. This term is used to describe lotions, oils, and moisturizers that claim to deliver a miracle solution for hair thinning and loss with no scientific or medical backing.
• Hair loss tools and accessories: There is no proof that a certain hairbrush, scalp massager, or pillowcase can stimulate hair growth. Some products and tools may be gentler on your hair, thereby reducing breakage, but they won’t grow new hair.

How to Find a Treatment That Really Works

Though many hair loss treatments have been proven effective, keep in mind not every treatment may work for everyone. You might need to try a variety of treatments before finding one that delivers noticeable results. Some people with mild hair loss have seen improvements with topical ointments, oral medications, and injections. However, if you’re experiencing more severe hair loss, contact the experts at DiStefano Hair Restoration Center to see if hair restoration surgery may be right for you.