Hair Thinning Options
Most seniors thin — many options.
Why hair thins after 65
- Genetics — male/female pattern baldness.
- Hormonal changes (post-menopause).
- Thyroid issues — get blood test.
- Iron deficiency — common in seniors.
- Medications — many cause hair loss.
- Stress.
- Some causes reversible.
Medical treatments
- Minoxidil (Rogaine) — OTC, $30/mo. Both men + women.
- Finasteride — Rx pill, men only. Side effects.
- Spironolactone — Rx, women only.
- PRP injections — $500-1,500 per session, 3-4 sessions.
- Hair transplant — $5K-15K. Permanent.
- Talk to dermatologist for prescription options.
Cosmetic options
- Volumizing shampoo — Nioxin, OGX Thick & Full.
- Toppik — keratin fiber sprinkle, $25.
- Hair toppers — partial pieces, $200-1,000.
- Wigs — synthetic $50-200, human hair $500-3,000.
- Scalp micropigmentation — tattoo dots, $2K-5K.
- Shorter cuts often look fuller.
Daily care
- Wash 2-3x/week — not daily (strips oils).
- Cool/lukewarm water rinse.
- Wide-tooth comb when wet (hair fragile).
- Air dry when possible.
- Silk pillowcase reduces breakage.
- Avoid tight ponytails / buns.
- Eat protein + iron (see /tools/protein-for-seniors).
Cancer + hair loss
Chemo causes hair loss. Wigs covered by Medicare with prescription "cranial prosthesis." American Cancer Society's "wig bank" provides free wigs. Look Good Feel Better — free workshops on wigs/makeup during cancer treatment.