Finasteride (Propecia) and Minoxidil (Rogaine) are two popular medications used to treat hair loss.
Finasteride is an oral medication that decreases the levels of the hormone DHT in the body, which is responsible for hair follicle shrinkage and hair loss. It works by inhibiting the enzyme that converts testosterone into DHT, thereby preventing hair loss and promoting hair regrowth. Finasteride is effective at treating male pattern baldness and is approved for use by men only.
Minoxidil is a topical solution applied directly to the scalp, which works to widen blood vessels in the scalp and stimulate hair growth by increasing blood flow to hair follicles. It can be used by both men and women and is effective for treating male and female pattern baldness.
Both Finasteride and Minoxidil have been shown to be effective for hair loss treatment. However, they work in different ways and have certain side effects to consider.
Finasteride can cause sexual side effects such as lower libido and erectile dysfunction, while Minoxidil may cause skin irritation or hypertrichosis (excessive hair growth) in some individuals.
It’s important to consult with a doctor or dermatologist to determine which medication is best for your specific type of hair loss and medical history. In general, Finasteride may be more effective for male pattern baldness while Minoxidil may be more effective for female pattern baldness.
