Recognizing that you’re losing your hair can be very disheartening. However, hair loss solutions like Finasteride and Minoxidil are typically the first options many people turn to for restoring their hair. For men and women experiencing pattern hair loss, these options may be effective. However, you may be left wondering which hair loss treatment is best for your situation.
Hair loss solutions often represent a significant investment in yourself, your appearance, and your confidence. When looking for hair loss treatments, it’s important to thoroughly research your options to ensure you’re selecting the right treatment for your type of hair loss. The hair restoration experts at Balance Hair Restoration have put together some answers to your questions about the differences between Finasteride and Minoxidil.
What Is Finasteride?
Typically for men experiencing pattern hair loss, Finasteride is an oral medication used to successfully treat hair loss by blocking enzymes that convert testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that can cause male and female pattern hair loss. While Finasteride is effective for women experiencing pattern hair loss, it is not safe for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding and can impact birth control effectiveness.
Finasteride works by encouraging regrowth of hair follicles on the scalp. It’s available by many names and is available in generic forms.
What Is Minoxidil?
For men and women experiencing pattern hair loss, Minoxidil is a topical medication applied to the scalp to effectively slow and prevent hair loss. It has been shown to help encourage hair growth with continued use by shortening the resting phase of hair follicles and stimulating follicles to move into a lengthened growth phase.
Typically, it’s offered in 2% and 5% strengths and is available over the counter. Minoxidil is most commonly known as the brand Rogaine.
What Is the Difference Between Finasteride and Minoxidil?
While both Finasteride and Minoxidil are medications to treat hair loss, their main differences are their form and function. Minoxidil is a topical medication applied to the scalp whereas Finasteride is an oral medication. Finasteride is not for everyone and requires a doctor’s assessment of t