Are you one of the millions of men searching for effective hair loss treatments? If so, you've likely come across the two popular options: finasteride and minoxidil. These FDA-approved meds have proven to be effective in combating hair loss on their own, but recent research suggests that combining them may provide even better results.
In this article, we'll look at how minoxidil and finasteride work to stimulate hair growth, and the evidence showing that pairing these two treatments is the most effective approach.
What is Minoxidil?
Minoxidil burst onto the scene as an FDA-approved hair loss treatment for men in 1988. Just a few short years later, in 1991, it gained approval for treating hair loss in women as well. 1 But how exactly does this over-the-counter medication restore hair growth?
Researchers have uncovered that minoxidil works its magic in a few ways:
- Ramps up blood flow around the hair follicles.
- Encourages hair follicles to move into the active growth phase of the hair cycle.
- Prolongs the time each hair follicle spends in the growth phase.
- Reverses hair follicle miniaturization. 2
Minoxidil requires diligent, continuous use for at least two months before you're likely to see results. Maximum effects typically occur around the 4-month mark, though using it for 6 months to a year is recommended to determine if minoxidil is effective for your hair loss situation. 3
What is Finasteride?
Finasteride first hit the scene in 1992 as a treatment for male pattern baldness. 4 Decades later, it remains one of the most effective options we have for fighting hair loss.
Finasteride works by targeting the underlying cause of male pattern baldness: dihydrotestosterone or DHT. DHT is a byproduct of testosterone that can damage hair follicles over time. Finasteride blocks the enzyme responsible for converting testosterone into DHT, known as Type II 5α-reductase. By inhibiting this enzyme, finasteride reduces DHT levels in the body and scalp. 4
During puberty, DHT is vital for developing male traits. However, later in life, DHT becomes problematic for those genetically prone to hair loss. In these men, hair follicles in balding areas have been progressively weakened by long-term DHT exposure. Studies also show that balding scalp tissue tends to have higher DHT levels. 5
The results of using finasteride are often noticeable within three months, with many men experiencing hair regrowth and reduced hair loss. However, consistent daily use is essential for its effectiveness. Discontinuing finasteride exposes hair follicles once more to the detrimental effects of DHT, resulting in the gradual thinning and shedding of regrown or preserved hair within a year. 4
Combining Finasteride and Minoxidil
While finasteride and minoxidil can both help combat hair loss when used individually, recent evidence suggests combining these treatments provides even better results. This powerful duo works by tackling thinning hair through complementary mechanisms.
Finasteride blocks DHT, the hormone primarily responsible for male pattern baldness. 4 Minoxidil, on the other hand, enhances blood flow around follicles and revs up growth. 2 Using them together gives a one-two punch against hair loss.
One notable study divided 450 men into three groups. Group one received oral finasteride daily, group two used topical minoxidil, and group three took both medications. 6 The combo cohort saw the most dramatic improvements:
- Finasteride alone helped 80.5% of men regrow their hair
- Minoxidil alone enabled 59% of men to regrow their hair
- A combination of minoxidil and finasteride helped 94.1% of men regrow their hair 6
The numbers speak for themselves. Finasteride and minoxidil are both effective on their own, but used together, they provide a more powerful hair loss treatment.
Conclusion
The synergy between minoxidil and finasteride has been shown to be a powerful combination for promoting hair regrowth. Research has demonstrated that using both medications together can lead to more successful outcomes compared to using either one in isolation. This dual approach offers a promising solution for individuals seeking to combat hair loss effectively.
If you're looking to use both minoxidil and finasteride for optimal hair regrowth, mailMymeds offers a convenient minoxidil and finasteride combination solution. This makes it easy to get the proven benefits of using these medications together.
