Across the major dermatology bodies — the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), the British Association of Dermatologists (BAD), the European Academy (EADV) and the Korean and Japanese dermatology societies — there is broad agreement on pattern hair loss: topical minoxidil and oral finasteride (for men) are the first-line, evidence-backed treatments, results take 6–12 months and must be continued to be maintained, and a transplant is for stable, more advanced loss. Low-dose oral minoxidil and dutasteride appear in several guidelines as options under medical supervision; dutasteride is specifically approved for hair loss in Korea and Japan.
The guidelines are equally clear about caution: self-assessment is not a diagnosis, sudden or patchy loss needs a dermatologist, and many marketed add-ons (supplements, most serums, exosomes) lack the evidence to be first-line. Where bodies differ is mostly emphasis and local drug approvals, not the core. Our evidence grades follow this consensus, and we cite primary sources on each page so you can check them yourself.
Try the free self-check →Sources: AGA review (CCID) ↗
FAQ
Do the US and other countries recommend different treatments?
The core first-line — minoxidil and finasteride — is consistent worldwide. Differences are mostly in locally approved extras (for example, dutasteride is approved for hair loss in Korea and Japan but used off-label elsewhere).
Why trust guidelines over a viral remedy?
Guidelines pool large bodies of evidence and expert consensus rather than a single study or testimonial. A viral remedy may be promising, but until it is in the evidence base, the guideline-backed treatments are the safer bet.
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⚠️ When to see a doctor — don’t self-treat
- Sudden patchy or circular bald spots
- Redness, scaling, pus, pain or itch (possible scarring alopecia — treat urgently)
- Broken hairs or rapid loss
- Loss with body-wide signs (weight loss, fatigue, cycle changes, acne, extra hair)
- Loss right after a new medication
- Any hair loss in a child