When the hair follicle has been damaged due to disease, radiation or overproduction of dihydrotestosterone, it may be necessary to take certain steps to regrow healthy hair. There are many reasons for losing the hair follicle, and there are a variety of methods to encourage regrowth.

Use shampoos specifically meant for cleansing the hair follicle. Clarifying shampoos, tea tree and Nioxin are all formulated to deep cleanse, stimulate and prohibit follicle shrinkage. Use the shampoos daily when trying to regrow the hair follicle in order to ensure the follicle remains clean and free of sebum and skin blockage.

Massage the scalp daily when you perform your shampoo. Use the pads of your fingertips and press firmly on the scalp massaging in a circular motion. Work from the nape of the neck to the temples and then over the ears.

Increase your vitamin intake to include a vitamins specifically formulated for hair. These vitamins come in many brands and can be purchased in a health food store or online. They contain vitamins necessary for healthy hair growth including B, A, E, C and Biotin. They have increased levels of lysine and zinc, which are necessary for optimal follicle growth.

Try using either Minoxidil or Propecia. Both Minoxidil and Propecia can help regrow the hair follicle in many instances. Propecia, however, cannot be used by women. Minoxidil can be purchase over the counter under the brand name Rogaine and is applied topically. Propecia requires a prescription and is taken orally.

Consider steroid treatments to assist follicle regrowth. Steroid treatments are available in the form of cortisone creme. They are applied topically or injected into the scalp. There are also oral dosages of cortisone that are offered by prescription. These medications increase follicle growth by activating an immune system response that causes the follicle to begin growing. A scalp irritant called diphenylcyclopropenone (DPCP) is also thought to increase follicle growth by inducing the immune system to attack cytokines that are causing the hair follicle to fall out.