Hair Restoration: A Comprehensive, Holistic Approach to Thicker, Healthier Hair

Andrea Del-Olmo, ND • January 28, 2026

By Andrea Del-Olmo, ND
Naturopathic Physician & Co-Owner, Venya Medical Spa


Introduction


A head full of thick, lustrous hair is often seen as both a sign of youth and beauty. While genetics play a significant role in hair quality and quantity, they aren’t the only factors influencing hair growth, texture, and overall health. If you are experiencing hair loss—or know someone who is—this article is for you.


Hair loss can feel frustrating, confusing, and even emotionally distressing. The good news is that there are many treatment options available today. However, navigating them can feel overwhelming. The term “hair restoration” is an umbrella term that includes a wide range of treatments and procedures designed to support thicker, fuller hair in individuals experiencing hair thinning or hair loss. These options range from surgical hair implants to non-surgical treatments such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, scalp therapies, and foundational diet and lifestyle interventions.


When approaching hair loss, it is essential to take a stepwise, comprehensive approach—one that looks beyond the scalp and considers possible underlying contributors. Addressing these root causes can dramatically improve treatment outcomes and long-term hair health.



Initial Considerations:

Understanding the Root Causes of Hair Loss


Hair loss in anyone can be deeply upsetting. Common underlying contributors include:

  • Low thyroid function
    Thyroid hormones are crucial for regulating hair follicle cycles.
  • Anemia and nutrient deficiencies
    Deficiencies in iron, zinc, vitamin D, and B vitamins have been associated with hair loss and may be modifiable risk factors for androgenetic alopecia. (PubMed)
  • Stress
    Chronic stress can trigger telogen effluvium, causing hair follicles to prematurely enter a shedding phase.
  • Autoimmune disorders
    Conditions like alopecia areata are directly linked to hair follicle attack by the immune system.
  • Recent illness or major life event
    Acute events like infection, surgery, or childbirth can disrupt hair cycling.
  • Genetics
    Androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss) remains the most common hereditary cause.
  • Medications and topical agents
    Certain drugs and even some skincare products can trigger shedding or inflammation.
  • Hormonal changes
    Transitions like perimenopause, menopause, and postpartum shifts can exacerbate hair thinning.


A thoughtful consultation with health and medical history — plus selective lab work — helps guide targeted, effective interventions.



Conventional Hair Loss TreatmentsFinasteride

Finasteride inhibits the conversion of testosterone to DHT (dihydrotestosterone), which is implicated in pattern hair loss. Finasteride is one of the most studied and effective treatments for slowing hair loss progression, especially in male-pattern hair loss. (Frontiers)


  • Pros
  • Can slow or halt hair loss progression
  • Effective for many individuals
  • Cons
  • Must be taken long-term
  • Possible side effects include hormonal and sexual function changes



Minoxidil


Minoxidil is an FDA-approved topical medication that stimulates hair follicles and extends the growth phase of the hair cycle. It has been shown to improve hair density and thickness when used consistently. (Frontiers)


  • Pros
  • Widely available
  • Can support hair density
  • Cons
  • Requires continued use
  • Effects may take 4–6 months or longer to appear
  • Benefit is generally better for early hair thinning than advanced loss



Integrative & Naturopathic Approaches

(From least invasive to more advanced)


1. Nutrients to Support Hair Growth

Research indicates that adequate levels of vitamin B complex, vitamin D, iron, and zinc are essential for hair maintenance and growth, and deficiencies may contribute to thinning. (PubMed)


Key nutrients and food sources:

  • Iron & Ferritin — red meat, spinach, legumes
  • Protein & Amino Acids — eggs, poultry, fish
  • Zinc — oysters, pumpkin seeds
  • Vitamin D — sunlight exposure, fortified dairy, fatty fish
  • B Vitamins (including biotin) — whole grains, nuts, seeds


Note: Supplementation is most effective when a deficiency has been documented; routine excessive supplementation without deficiency may show limited benefit. (Dermatology Times)


2. Natural Topicals and Scalp Care Rosemary Oil

Small clinical studies and reviews suggest rosemary essential oil may improve hair growth parameters and support scalp health compared with control oils like coconut oil. (PubMed)


  • Pumpkin Seed Oil

Pumpkin seed oil has shown promise in clinical trials for promoting hair growth and may work through phytosterols that influence DHT pathways. In a randomized trial, topical pumpkin seed oil improved hair parameters similar to minoxidil. (PubMed)


  • Scalp Massage

Scalp massage can increase blood flow to the follicles and support overall scalp health. While specific clinical data is limited, it is widely recommended by trichologists as a simple daily supportive practice.


3. PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Scalp Injections

PRP uses your body’s own growth factors to stimulate hair follicle activity. Numerous clinical reports and case series support its role in improving hair density, especially for androgenetic alopecia, when delivered in a series of treatments.


4. Keravive by Hydrafacial® Scalp Treatment

Keravive is a multi-step scalp therapy designed to cleanse, hydrate, and nourish the scalp, while a peptide spray supports follicle health. According to the manufacturer, many participants experience improved hair fullness and healthier hair after treatment. (Hydrafacial North America Marketing)



Bringing It Together: A Personalized Plan

Each person’s hair loss journey is unique. At our Portland med spa, we combine medical consultation, lab assessment, diet and lifestyle guidance, clinical therapies like PRP and Keravive, and integrative strategies (nutrient support, topicals) to create a tailored plan.


If you’re struggling with hair thinning or hair loss, we invite you to book a free consultation to see if we can support you on your hair restoration journey. You don’t have to navigate this alone — we’re here to help you feel your best from the inside out and out!



References

  1. Micronutrients and Androgenetic Alopecia: A Systematic Review. PubMed. 2024. (PubMed)
  2. Rosmagain™ and rosemary oil hair regrowth trial. PubMed. 2024. (PubMed)
  3. Pumpkin seed oil vs. minoxidil trial for female pattern hair loss. PubMed. 2021. (PubMed)
  4. Pumpkin seed oil and hair growth research overview. Healthline. (Healthline)
  5. Evidence on micronutrient supplementation & common hair loss treatments. Dermatology Times / Int Trichol Review. (Dermatology Times)
  6. Keravive by Hydrafacial scalp treatment outcomes. Hydrafacial.com. (Hydrafacial North America Marketing)
  7. Systematic review of minoxidil and finasteride efficacy & combination therapies. Frontiers in Pharmacology. 2025. (Frontiers)