The HairMax Laser Comb, $295, an at-home laser device, is the first FDA-approved product of its kind to treat hereditary hair loss, which gave us high hopes (despite a nearly $300 price tag), but our experts say to be wary. Ellery warns that while lasers have been clinically proven to encourage hair growth (most likely due to stimulating blood flow to the follicles), this product claims to work in eight weeks. Most users found only minor results after at least six months. Bottom line: it may work, but it's pretty pricey and takes time.
Minoxidil is the only FDA-approved topical medication approved to treat hair loss. Better known by its brand named, Rogaine, it works by stimulating follicles to regrow hair. It comes in foams for men and women; both use 5 percent minoxidil, but women should apply Women's Rogaine Unscented Foam, $26.99, once per day as opposed to the twice-daily application for men. (Don't worry, if you do use the men's version, you won't grow hair on your chest or experience other adverse effects, but you'll probably save a few dollars!) The good news: In three months, you should see up to 25 percent more hair, and the new strands grow back thicker than before. But to retain that hair, you'll need to continue using the product.