What can be done to treat bald spots on the scalp?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Bald spots on the scalp can be treated in several ways, depending on the underlying cause:

Medications: Minoxidil (topical) and finasteride (oral) are FDA-approved options that can slow hair loss and promote regrowth.
Hair transplants: A surgical option that relocates healthy follicles to thinning areas.
Herbal and natural treatments: Options like saw palmetto, rosemary oil, and pumpkin seed oil may support hair health, though evidence varies.

Because bald spots can stem from many causes—genetics, stress, autoimmune conditions, nutritional deficiencies, or hormonal changes—the right treatment depends on an accurate diagnosis. Before spending time or money on a solution that may not match your condition, it makes sense to first understand what's actually causing your hair loss. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to get clarity on possible causes and guidance on the best next steps.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

Important Next Steps

Learn what may be causing bald spots Discover if your hair loss needs care See likely causes of scalp bald spots Find OTC options for bald spot treatment Understand which doctor treats hair loss Find home remedies for thinning hair Check if bald spots need urgent care

Not seeing your question? No worries.

Submit your own Question

Explanation

Bald spots on the scalp can be concerning, but there are several treatments available.

Medications:

Minoxidil: This over-the-counter treatment can be applied to the scalp to help regrow hair.
Finasteride: A prescription medication that can slow hair loss and potentially regrow hair.

Surgical Options:

Hair Transplants: This involves moving hair from one part of the body to the bald spot.

Herbal Preparations: Some people explore natural remedies. Certain herbal treatments may help, but it's important to consult with a healthcare provider before trying them.

The best treatment depends on the cause of hair loss, so if you're experiencing unusual hair loss or bald spots, use our free AI symptom checker to help identify potential causes and determine the right next steps for your situation.

(References)

Phillips TG, Slomiany WP, & Allison R. (2017). Hair Loss: Common Causes and Treatment. American family physician, 28925637.
Dakkak M, Forde KM, & Lanney H. (2024). Hair Loss: Diagnosis and Treatment. American family physician, 39283847.
Zgonc Škulj A, Poljšak N, Kočevar Glavač N, & Kreft S. (2020). Herbal preparations for the treatment of hair loss. Archives of dermatological research, 31680216.

Thinking about asking ChatGPT?Ask me instead

Tell your friends about us.

We would love to help them too.

For First Time Users

What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?

We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.

Was this page helpful?

Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor's Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.