An Expert Answers Your Questions on Hair Loss — and How to Reverse It (2025)

Are your locks looking less thick these days? Have you noticed your hair changing since “the change”? Readers of our Body and Soul newsletter sent in dozens of thoughtful questions about reversing hair loss, defeating dandruff,andmore —andwe brought in an expert for answers.

Dr. Divya Shokeenis a board-certified dermatologistandhair transplant surgeon who’s earned thousands of followers across social media for her brilliant hairandskincare advice. Below, she takes on your queries about thinning; itchy, dry scalps;andwhat works — and what doesn’t —when it comes to reversing hair loss.

Would love to know how to help thinning, post-menopausal hair. Is it OK to use minoxidil,andfor how long?

Dr. Shokeen: Yes! Minoxidil (aka Rogaine) is FDA approved for treating hair loss in womenandcan be effective for post-menopausal thinning. It’s typically used once or twice dailyandcan be applied directly to the scalp. It may take three to six months to see results,andit must be used consistently to maintain the benefits.

Finasteride is a prescription medication that’s sometimes used for female-pattern hair loss, though it’s more commonly prescribed for men. Some women also find that addressing hormonal balances throughhormone-replacement therapycan help, but you should discuss this option with your healthcare provider.

I’ve also found thatNatureLab Tokyo’s Saisei Return To You Bundlecan combat thinning hair. It’s specifically formulated with a combination of biomimetic peptides that help to strengthen strandsandbotanical extracts, like red cloverandrosebay, which nourish the rootsandbalance the scalp’s microbiome to promote healthy, thicker hair growth.

Is rosemary oil good for hair growth?

Rosemary oil has been shown in only a few studies to promote hair growth, possibly by improving circulation to the scalpandstimulating hair follicles. It’s often compared to 2 percent minoxidil, which is not nearly as potent as higher concentration formulas like those containing 5 percent minoxidil.

Always talk to your doctor before starting the therapy, as it can irritate the scalp or induce an allergic reaction. Rosemary oil should be diluted before applying it to the scalp. You can mix a few drops (five to 10) in a carrier oil like jojoba, coconut, or olive oil. Massage the solution gently into the scalp, then leave it on for at least 10 to 15 minutes before washing it out.

While rosemary oil can be used as part of a regimen, it shouldn’t replace conditioning treatments or shampoos. You can use it alongside your regular products.

I’ve heard that dermarolling can stimulate hair growth. Is this true?

Dermarolling or microneedling has been shown to improve hair growth in some people, especially when combined with topical treatments like minoxidil. The tiny needles stimulate the scalp, promote circulation,andencourage the production of collagen, which can help hair follicles stay healthy.

Microneedling should be done carefully. Adermarolleror dermastamping with needles around 0.5 mm in size is typically safe for the scalp. You can use it a few times a week, but make sure to disinfect the tool beforeandafter each use.

What can I do to defunk a flaky scalp?

A flaky scalp can be caused by dryness, dandruff, or seborrheic dermatitis. When you experience dryness, it’s often because of a buildup of yeast called Malassezia. Anti-dandruff shampoos can be incredibly helpful in mitigating this. You should also avoid harsh shampoos that contain sulfates or alcohol, as they can dry out the scalp.

What vitamins or supplements do doctors recommend for hair growth?

The following nutrients are essential for hair health, but you should always check with your doctor before starting any supplement regimen to ensure it’s safeandsuitable foryourneeds.

• A deficiency ofvitamin Dis linked to hair thinning, so ensuring your levels are adequate may support hair health.

• Lowironlevels can lead to hair thinning, especially in women.

• Zincis a key mineral for hair healthandgrowth.

• Omega-3 fatty acidssupport overall scalp healthandhydration.

I’m a 64-year-old woman with thinning hair. What regimen — shampoo, conditioner, leave-in treatment — should I use?

Hair growth always starts with a healthy scalp. Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo that includes peptides — such asNatureLab’s Perfect Smooth Shampoo— with strengthening additives that can help produce stronger, healthier hair. For a conditioner, pick something lightweight, ideally one that adds volume without weighing down your hair. Avoid anything too heavy or greasy. A leave-in conditioner or lightweight styling product can help protect the hair. Look for treatments with ingredients like panthenol (pro-vitamin B5), which can strengthenandmoisturize.

You also want to avoid using a curling iron or other tools that use heat. Excessive heat can damage fragile, thinning hair. If you do style, use aheat-protectant spray. Be gentle with your hair: Avoid tight updos, harsh brushing,androughly towel drying your hair. Use a wide-tooth combandbe careful while detangling.

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