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Stopping Hair Loss: Causes & Effective Treatments

October 6, 2026

6 minutes

Shiny, full hair represents vitality. But when the first thinning spots appear, uncertainty often sets in. As of 2026, there are well-researched medical active ingredients that can slow down hair loss – provided the exact cause is known.

Important Facts About Hair Loss

Before you reach for expensive shampoos, you should know these fundamental facts:

Normal hair loss: Everyone loses hair every day. Up to 100 lost hairs per day is considered completely normal and is no cause for concern.
Hereditary hair loss: Androgenetic alopecia is the most common form. It affects up to 80% of men and 50% of women over the course of their lives.
Patience is mandatory: Hair growth products like minoxidil or finasteride take at least 3 to 6 months before the first visible results appear.
Lifelong application: Medical preparations against genetic hair loss only work as long as they are used. If you stop taking them, the hair will fall out again.

An accurate medical diagnosis is the most important first step to save time and money on treatment.

The 3 Types of Hair Loss

Alopecia androgenetica

Hereditary hair loss. In men, it manifests as a receding hairline and frontal baldness; in women, the hair usually thins along the center parting. The cause is a hypersensitivity of the hair roots to the hormone DHT.

Alopecia areata

Circular hair loss. Coin-sized bald patches suddenly appear. The exact cause is unclear, but an autoimmune reaction is suspected. Often, the hair grows back on its own in mild cases.

Effluvium diffusum

Diffuse hair loss. The hair falls out evenly over the entire head. Common triggers are stress, nutrient deficiencies, thyroid disorders, or hormonal fluctuations.

Medical professionals mainly distinguish between three forms of pathological hair loss (alopecia), which have different causes.

Hair Growth Products Compared

Minoxidil (Solution or Foam)

Best suited for

Men and women with hereditary hair loss.

Cost / Time required

Must be applied to the scalp twice a day. Initial results are visible after 3 to 6 months.

Risks / Disadvantages

Increased hair loss may occur in the first few weeks (shedding effect). Possible scalp irritation. The application must be permanent.

Who should perform it

Self-application at home, ideally after an initial consultation with a dermatologist.

Finasteride (Tablets)

Best suited for

Men with hereditary hair loss. The medication is generally not approved for women.

Cost / Time required

Daily intake of one tablet (1 mg). Stops hair loss in over 80% of users.

Risks / Disadvantages

Prescription required. In rare cases, it can lead to sexual dysfunction (e.g., loss of libido).

Who should perform it

Only under medical supervision (dermatologist).

Dietary Supplements (e.g., Biotin, Zinc)

Best suited for

People with diffuse hair loss caused by a proven nutrient deficiency.

Cost / Time required

Daily intake over several months.

Risks / Disadvantages

Completely ineffective for hereditary or circular hair loss.

Who should perform it

Self-application, but ideally only after a blood test by a family doctor.

Step-by-Step: How to Tackle Hair Loss

Act systematically to find the cause and start the right therapy.

Observe hair loss

Check over one to two weeks whether you are actually losing more than 100 hairs a day (e.g., in the drain or on the pillow).

Schedule a doctor's appointment

Visit a dermatologist. They can determine the exact cause through a blood test or a trichogram (hair root examination). **Important:** Consult a doctor immediately if hair falls out in clumps.

Determine a therapy plan

Together with the doctor, decide on a suitable preparation (e.g., minoxidil or finasteride) or the treatment of an underlying disease (e.g., thyroid disorder).

Show patience

Consistently apply the chosen remedy. Do not stop the therapy prematurely, as the hair cycle needs time to adjust.

Use professional care

Get advice from a hairdresser on how to gently style fine hair and visually create more volume. Avoid harsh chemicals and blow-drying too hot.

The earlier you start targeted treatment, the more hair follicles can be saved.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hair Loss

Here you will find answers to the most pressing questions about thinning hair.

When is hair loss considered pathological?

If you lose more than 100 hairs a day over a longer period of time or if bald patches form, it is medically referred to as alopecia.

Does health insurance cover the cost of hair growth products?

In Switzerland, basic insurance usually covers the cost of a medical diagnosis (e.g., blood tests). However, medications for hereditary hair loss (such as minoxidil or finasteride) generally have to be paid for out of pocket.

Why does more hair fall out initially during minoxidil treatment?

This so-called shedding effect often occurs in the first few weeks. Old hairs fall out to make room for new, stronger hairs. This is a sign that the product is working.

Can stress trigger hair loss?

Yes. Extreme physical or psychological stress can lead to diffuse hair loss. Often, the hair only falls out 2 to 3 months after the triggering event.

Do shampoos help against hereditary hair loss?

Caffeine shampoos can stimulate blood circulation in the scalp, but their effectiveness as a sole remedy for genetic hair loss is not sufficiently scientifically proven.

Do not hesitate to ask medical professionals for advice if you are unsure.