Minoxidil is a hair loss treatment that works by:

• Increasing blood flow

• Shortening the resting phase

Minoxidil shortens the telogen, or resting, phase of the hair cycle. This causes the hair to enter the anagen, or growing, phase.

• Increasing the activity of dermal papilla cells

Minoxidil increases the activity of these cells, which play a crucial role in hair follicle development and growth.

Minoxidil is applied directly to the scalp as a solution or foam. It’s important to follow the directions that come with the product, including:

• Applying it to a dry scalp
• Not using it more often than directed
• Washing your hands thoroughly after application
• Avoiding getting it in your eyes
• Not using it on other parts of the body unless directed by your doctor

You might not notice any difference in your hair until you use minoxidil for at least 8 weeks. Most people need to use it regularly for 4 months to see benefit.

Finasteride

Finasteride is a medication that treats male pattern hair loss by blocking the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that can stop hair growth:

Finasteride is a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor, which means it prevents testosterone from converting into DHT. DHT is a harmful hormone that can damage hair follicles. By reducing DHT levels in the scalp, finasteride can help prevent hair loss and promote hair growth.

You may notice some improvement in hair loss after 3 to 6 months of taking finasteride. After more than a year, you should see a noticeable improvement in hair thickness and growth, or a slower rate of hair loss.

Finasteride is generally safe to take for long periods of time, but there have been some reports of breast cancer in men taking it. You should speak to your doctor if you experience any changes in your chest area, such as lumps, pain, swelling, or discharge from your nipples.

Finasteride can also be used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition where the prostate enlarges.