Hair loss is a complex issue influenced by genetics, health, hormones, and hair care habits. Whether you’re experiencing shedding, thinning, or scarring alopecia, understanding the latest advances in hair loss treatment in South Africa can help you take action early and effectively.
In this blog, we explore key treatment options for 2025, from new technologies to daily hair care habits.
Normal shedding vs. actual hair loss
It’s completely normal to shed around 50–100 hairs per day, but when hair loss becomes patchy, prolonged, or is accompanied by scalp discomfort, it may signal a deeper issue.
Conditions like lichen planopilaris (LPP), traction alopecia (caused by tight hairstyles) or CCCA (Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia) are not seasonal, they’re medical, nor do they cause shedding, but more thinning or baldness. If your shedding seems unusual, early diagnosis is crucial to prevent permanent follicle damage.
Tricopat and emerging technologies
The future of scalp health is here. Tricopat, a microneedling-based hair stimulation tool, is gaining traction in 2025. Used alongside topical solutions, this device boosts circulation, improves product absorption, and enhances follicle activity.
We are excited to be the first and only clinic to have this technology in South Africa and in the continent.
At Dr Khoza’s clinic, Tricopat is combined with advanced growth factors and exosomes, which are powerful regenerative tools that further support follicle repair and new growth.
Female pattern hair loss: Key solutions
Hormonal changes and genetics are major contributors to female pattern hair loss. The gold-standard treatments in 2025 include:
- Topical Minoxidil – Available over-the-counter and in stronger prescriptions. Expect shedding at first, as it is a sign it’s working.
- Oral Minoxidil – Now recommended more often due to improved results in resistant cases.
- DHT Blockers – Oral medications like spironolactone may help in some patients.
- Topical Metformin for CCCA – For patients with scarring hair loss, especially Black women, topical metformin offers promising results with fewer side effects than oral versions.
Dr Khoza prescribes and compounds all topical and oral minoxidil, topical metformin, and finasteride, ensuring a treatment plan tailored to your exact needs.
Male pattern hair loss: Targeting DHT
In men, most hair loss is due to DHT (dihydrotestosterone), which miniaturises hair follicles.
- Finasteride – Still the most prescribed oral DHT blocker.
- New Research – Combines finasteride with microneedling or laser therapy for enhanced outcomes.
- Supportive topicals – Like ketoconazole shampoo, reduce inflammation and DHT levels on the scalp.
All prescriptions, including finasteride, can be customised by Dr Khoza and dispensed as part of a broader treatment plan.
Pseudofolliculitis Barbae (shaving bumps)
This condition, while not dangerous, can be distressing, unsightly and cause permanent scarring and severe hyperpigmentation. It’s caused by hair re-entering the skin after shaving. First-line treatment includes eliminating shaving where possible, improving shaving techniques, and using a single-blade razor. Additional treatments include topical corticosteroids, intralesional injections, antibiotics, and retinoids. In some cases, laser hair removal with Aerolase laser treatments is recommended. This helps us decrease hair growth and treat hyperpigmentation and scarring at the same time.
Temporary vs. permanent hair loss
It’s essential to distinguish between temporary hairloss like telogen effluvium (temporary shedding caused by stress, illness, nutritional deficiency or postpartum changes) and scalp disease or permanent hairloss/ scarring alopecias like CCCA, LPP, FFAC Traction Alopecia, and others, where early intervention is key.
If you’re unsure, a professional diagnosis can save your follicles and your confidence.
Non-surgical options making a difference
For those not ready for hair transplants, non-surgical options are improving year by year:
- PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)
- Laser Therapy
- Microneedling with growth factors and exosomes
- Tricopat
- Intralesional scalp injections
- Topical compounds (Minoxidil, Metformin, Retinoids)
These treatments can be personalised based on the type of hair loss you’re experiencing and are available at our practice.
Hair supplements and nutritional support
While not every form of hair loss is caused by nutrient deficiency, some vitamins play a key role:
- Iron – Low iron is common in women and linked to poor regrowth.
- Vitamin D – Affects hair follicle cycling and immune regulation.
- Magnesium, zinc, and protein – Help reduce shedding and support follicle strength.
Biotin, however, is not widely recommended due to a lack of evidence in non-deficient individuals.
Dr Khoza also recommends the Allskin Med hair products, available at the clinic, to help support healthy hair from within.
Hair hacks by Dr Khoza
Hair growth and scalp health often come down to consistent, supportive routines. Here are five hacks Dr Nokubonga Khoza often recommends:
- Massage a mix of rosemary and amla oil into the scalp twice daily to improve circulation.
- Use a ketoconazole-based shampoo regularly to manage shedding and scalp health.
- Apply minoxidil to sparse eyebrows using a clean mascara wand.
- Avoid aggressive protective styling, especially tight braids or constant tension in the same direction.
- Prioritise sleep, manage stress, and eat protein-rich meals to support the hair growth cycle.
Your 2025 hair health game plan
- Monitor your scalp monthly for signs of thinning, flaking, or inflammation.
- Use medicated shampoos with ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc, salicylic acid, selenium sulphide, or ciclopirox to maintain a healthy scalp microbiome.
- Consult early if you notice unusual shedding, scalp discomfort, or hairline recession.
- Choose protective hairstyles wisely, as some can do more harm than good.
- Book a professional consultation to access the latest hair loss treatments in South Africa, from diagnostic imaging to customised topical solutions.
Hair loss treatment with Dr Nokubonga Khoza
Dr Nokubonga Khoza offers advanced diagnostic tools and evidence-based treatments for:
- Temporary hair loss: Telogen effluvium, androgenic alopecia, female pattern hair loss, hair breakage (ATN), and alopecia areata.
- Permanent hair loss: CCCA, frontal fibrosing alopecia, lichen planopilaris, traction alopecia, dissecting cellulitis, folliculitis decalvans, acne keloidalis.
Hair loss treatments in South Africa include topical and oral medications (minoxidil, finasteride, metformin), intralesional steroid injections, immunomodulators, and non-surgical solutions like PRP and laser therapy.
Clinic-recommended products to support your routine
- Allskin Med Hair Range – Available at the clinic
- Exfoliating Shampoo – Cleanses without disrupting scalp balance
- Anti-Hair Loss Redensifying Lotion – Targets follicle stimulation and density
- Hair Supplements – Ideal for patients with iron or vitamin D deficiencies
- Growth factors – Used in conjunction with microneedling for enhanced results
- Fresh Cell Shampoo – Now available at the clinic (Fresh Cell Conditioner launching August 2025)
Hair loss can be distressing, but it doesn’t have to be permanent. With early intervention, modern tools like Tricopat, and advances in topical therapies like minoxidil and metformin, it’s possible to restore not just your hair, but your confidence. If you’re experiencing hair loss, don’t wait. Dr Khoza’s personalised approach ensures the right diagnosis and targeted treatment plan, because not all hair loss is the same, and neither should be your solution.
Book a consultation today to explore your personalised plan for hair loss treatment in South Africa.
