OVER THE COUNTER

HAIR FIBRES

Products such as Viviscal and Nanogen contain tiny hair-fibre strands that bond to existing hair, increasing volume.

PROS An instant confidence boost.

CONS Not suitable for someone who has lost most or all of their hair.

CAFFEINE SHAMPOO

Experts say caffeine stops the roots being weakened by hormones called androgens.

PROS Shampoo can improve hair structure after a few washes.

CONS Limited studies to show effectiveness.

MULTI-VITAMINS

A deficiency of Vitamin D and zinc can lead to hair loss. Multi-vitamins such as Perfectil can help maintain healthy skin, hair and nails.

PROS A good way to boost your vitamin and mineral intake without relying just on diet.

CONS Alone, they are not the answer. ‘Taking supplements will ensure you aren’t deficient but it won’t correct hair loss,’ says Dr Jones.

SPECIALIST SUPPLEMENTS

Actresses Gwyneth Paltrow and Kate Hudson swear by Viviscal, a drug-free supplement that replenishes nutrients in thinning hair. Its fish protein extracts are believed to regenerate follicles.

PROS Proven to improve hair thickness and reduce shedding three to six months.

CONS Viviscal costs £50 for a month’s supply.

MINOXIDIL

Originally developed to lower blood pressure, it has a side effect of boosting hair growth in people with pattern baldness. Brands include Regaine and Boots Pharmaceuticals Hair Loss Treatment.

PROS A trial of 350 saw improved hair growth in seven out of ten cases after 16 weeks.

CONS Can irritate, risk of hypertrichosis – excessive hair growth in the wrong places.