Minoxidil Vs Finasteride: Which Hair Loss Treatment Works Best?

Hair loss is a reality that many people face throughout their lives. It can affect anyone regardless of age or gender and often carries with it emotional and social challenges. Losing hair may feel like a personal setback, but it is a natural part of the human experience. For some, thinning hair or receding hairlines are simply signs of ageing, while for others, the stress and self-consciousness that accompany hair loss can be overwhelming. Recognising that hair loss is common and understanding that many others share these struggles can be both comforting and empowering.

Many individuals seeking to halt or reverse hair loss have heard about treatments like minoxidil and finasteride. Both medications have garnered significant attention because they offer promising results by addressing different aspects of the hair growth cycle. Yet, the key question remains: which treatment works best? To answer this, it is important to understand how each medication works, their benefits, and their potential side effects.

Understanding hair loss

Hair loss, particularly androgenetic alopecia (commonly known as pattern hair loss), affects millions of people worldwide¹. This condition is often linked to genetics and hormones, resulting in the gradual thinning of hair over time. Although the process is natural, many seek treatment to maintain their self-esteem and overall appearance. Factors such as stress, environmental influences, and even diet can play a role in accelerating hair loss.

While numerous treatment options exist, minoxidil and finasteride are two of the most widely used and well-researched therapies. Both are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating certain types of hair loss, but they work in very different ways. Understanding these differences is essential for making an informed decision about which option might be best for your unique needs.

How minoxidil works

Minoxidil is a topical treatment originally developed as an antihypertensive medication. However, during clinical trials, researchers noticed an unexpected side effect: increased hair growth². Today, minoxidil is typically available over the counter in liquid or foam formulations and is applied directly to the scalp. The drug acts as a vasodilator, widening blood vessels in the scalp and improving blood flow. This enhanced circulation increases the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles, which may prolong the growth phase (anagen phase) of hair and promote thicker, fuller hair³.

Many users appreciate minoxidil for its ease of use and accessibility. It is effective for both men and women and is typically used twice a day. However, results can take several months to become noticeable, and continued use is important to maintain gains.

Minoxidil is also available as an oral drug which needs to be prescribed by your doctor or dermatologist. This usually has better results but certain side effects like headaches, palpitations, slight drop in blood pressure at higher dosages, and increased facial and body hair growth have to be considered or weighted in the decision-making process taking into account the patient’s other medical conditions and any contraindications. When either oral or topical minoxidil is discontinued, hair loss may resume, making it a long-term commitment for many individuals especially if the underlying cause of hair loss is a chronic problem like male or female pattern hair loss. This however may not be the case if minoxidil was actually started for other forms of hair loss like telogen effluvium or alopecia areata that can be resolved or go into remission.

How finasteride works

Finasteride, on the other hand, is an oral medication that works from within the body. It is primarily prescribed for male pattern hair loss and is known by its brand name Propecia, among others. Finasteride works by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which is responsible for converting testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT)⁴. Elevated levels of DHT are strongly linked to hair follicle miniaturisation – a process where hair follicles shrink over time, leading to thinner and shorter hair strands. By reducing DHT levels, finasteride helps slow down the progression of hair loss and can even promote regrowth in some men⁵.

Although finasteride is effective for many men, some users report side effects such as decreased libido or erectile dysfunction. These side effects are relatively rare and typically resolve after discontinuation of the medication⁴.

Some women with female pattern hair loss may also be suitable for the use of finasteride depending on their severity. This is an alternative drug to spironolactone but is relatively contraindicated in a woman of childbearing age and is more suitable for women who are post-menopausal or who have completed their family due to the possibility of causing birth defects in male fetuses if a woman inadvertently becomes pregnant whilst taking the drug.

Comparing effectiveness and side effects

When comparing minoxidil and finasteride, it is important to note that both treatments target hair loss through different mechanisms. Minoxidil primarily works by improving scalp circulation and prolonging the hair growth phase, whereas finasteride addresses the hormonal causes of hair loss by lowering DHT levels. Research⁶ suggests that while minoxidil is effective at stimulating hair growth and reducing hair fall, finasteride helps to reduce the miniaturisation of hair follicles caused by DHT.

Despite the promising outcomes associated with both treatments, potential side effects are an important consideration. Topical minoxidil’s side effects are generally localised to the area of application and can include scalp irritation, redness, and itching³. In some cases, unwanted hair growth in areas adjacent to the treatment site may occur. Oral minoxidil may cause initial headaches and palpitations when starting use, and may also cause unwanted peripheral hair growth over the face and body. Finasteride’s side effects, although less common, are systemic and may include sexual dysfunction and mood changes⁴. Because of these differences, the choice between these two treatments often depends on individual tolerance, medical history, and personal preferences.

Combining treatments for optimal results

Some studies have shown that using minoxidil and finasteride together can provide synergistic benefits. Combination therapy may help maximise hair regrowth while minimising the progression of hair loss. For example, one study⁷ reported that the combined use of topical minoxidil and oral finasteride resulted in improved hair density and overall satisfaction compared to using either medication alone. This approach can be particularly beneficial for individuals with moderate to severe hair loss who might require a more aggressive treatment regimen to target various aspects of the pathophysiology of hair loss.

For those interested in combination therapy, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider who can assess your overall health and help develop a personalised treatment plan. While combining the two treatments may offer enhanced results, ongoing monitoring is essential to manage any potential side effects and adjust dosages as needed.

Additional considerations

Beyond choosing between minoxidil and finasteride, other factors can influence your overall hair health. For example, maintaining a balanced diet, managing stress, and ensuring proper scalp care are all important elements of a comprehensive hair loss strategy. It is also useful to be aware of related dermatological treatments, such as acne and folliculitis treatment in Singapore, which can sometimes intersect with concerns about overall scalp and hair health.

Moreover, it is crucial not to overlook the impact of hormonal changes on hair health. This phrase, used here in passing, reminds us that shifts in hormone levels can play a significant role in the health and appearance of your hair without needing further elaboration.

Making an informed decision

Choosing the right hair loss treatment is a personal decision that depends on various factors, including the severity of your hair loss, your overall health, and your lifestyle. Minoxidil offers a non-hormonal, topical solution that is accessible and effective for many people, especially those who may prefer an over-the-counter option. Finasteride, by contrast, provides a targeted, hormone-based approach that has been shown to slow the progression of hair loss in men significantly.

It is also worth considering that treatment is not one-size-fits-all. Some individuals may find that minoxidil works best for them, while others may benefit more from finasteride or even a combination of both. Consultation with a dermatologist or hair restoration specialist is key to determining which treatment – or combination of treatments – is most appropriate for your specific situation.

A healthcare provider can help you weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each treatment option and monitor your progress over time. Regular check-ups and open communication with your provider can also help you manage any side effects that might arise and make adjustments to your treatment plan as necessary.

Conclusion

Hair loss may be an unavoidable part of life for many, but it does not have to define your self-image. Whether you choose minoxidil for its ease of use and localised action, finasteride for its hormonal benefits, or a combination of both, the goal is to find a solution that fits your individual needs and lifestyle. If you are looking for professional guidance and comprehensive hair restoration solutions, consider consulting Angeline Yong Dermatology. With expertise in cosmetic, surgical, and medical treatments, including skin cancer treatment in Singapore, our experienced team is ready to help you achieve healthier, fuller hair. Reach out today to learn more about how Dr Angeline Yong’s personalised approach can support your journey to restored confidence and improved hair health.

References

Qi, J., & Garza, L. A. (2014). An overview of alopecias. Cold Spring Harbor perspectives in medicine, 4(3), a013615. https://doi.org/10.1101/cshperspect.a013615

Hussein, R. S., Dayel, S. B., Abahussein, O., & El-Sherbiny, A. A. (2024). Applications and efficacy of minoxidil in dermatology. Skin health and disease, 4(6), e472. https://doi.org/10.1002/ski2.472

Patel, P., Nessel, T. A., & Kumar D, D. (2023). Minoxidil. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing.

Zito, P. M., Bistas, K. G., Patel, P., & Syed, K. (2024). Finasteride. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing.

Saraswat, A., & Kumar, B. (2003). Minoxidil vs finasteride in the treatment of men with androgenetic alopecia. Archives of dermatology, 139(9), 1219–1221. https://doi.org/10.1001/archderm.139.9.1219-b

Arca, E., Açikgöz, G., Taştan, H. B., Köse, O., & Kurumlu, Z. (2004). An open, randomized, comparative study of oral finasteride and 5% topical minoxidil in male androgenetic alopecia. Dermatology (Basel, Switzerland), 209(2), 117–125. https://doi.org/10.1159/000079595

Chen, L., Zhang, J., Wang, L., Wang, H., & Chen, B. (2020). The Efficacy and Safety of Finasteride Combined with Topical Minoxidil for Androgenetic Alopecia: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Aesthetic plastic surgery, 44(3), 962–970. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00266-020-01621-5

Use of this website signifies your agreement to The Terms of Use & Privacy Policy

Terms of Use

You are deemed to have entered into an agreement with Angeline Yong Dermatology and to have agreed to be bound by the terms set out below by accessing ayd.com.sg (“the Sites”) or by otherwise accessing any content found on this web site. By accessing or using the Site, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed, without limitation or qualification, to be bound by these Terms & Conditions. The Site is owned and operated by Angeline Yong Dermatology.

Intellectual Property Protection
Use of Angeline Yong Dermatology Content
Changes to the Site
Privacy Policy
No Warranty, Disclaimer of Liability and Indemnity
Force Majeure
Miscellaneous
Governing Law and Jurisdiction

Intellectual Property Protection

The contents and design of the Site and any material e-mailed to you or otherwise supplied to you in conjunction with the Site (such contents, design and materials being collectively referred to as the “Angeline Yong Dermatology Content”, are copyright of Angeline Yong Dermatology. You may not use or reproduce or allow anyone to use or reproduce any trademarks (such as ” Angeline Yong Dermatology” name and logo or other trade names appearing on the Site) for any reason without written permission from Angeline Yong Dermatology. The software, which operates the Site, is proprietary software and you may not use it except as expressly allowed under these Terms. You may not copy, modify, reverse engineer or otherwise interfere with the software.

Use of Angeline Yong Dermatology Content

You may retrieve and display the Angeline Yong Dermatology Content on a computer screen or mobile telephone, print individual pages on paper (but not photocopy them) and store such pages in electronic form for your personal, non-commercial use. You may not save or post any of the Content on blogs, Facebook, and other websites that allows viewing by the general public without written permission from Angeline Yong Dermatology. Except as expressly set out above, you may not reproduce, modify or in any way commercially exploit any of the Angeline Yong Dermatology Content.

Changes to the Site

Angeline Yong Dermatology reserves the right to change, modify, suspend, add or remove portions of the Angeline Yong Dermatology Content available on the Site at any time and to restrict the use and accessibility of the Site in its discretion and without prior notification.

Privacy Policy

The information that you provide about yourself and your company to Angeline Yong Dermatology will only be used in accordance with Angeline Yong Dermatology’s Privacy Policy Statement. We will:

retain your information only for as long as there is a business need
take reasonable steps to ensure that the information is accurate, adequate, relevant and up to date.
update or correct your information held by us whenever necessary
take appropriate measures to prevent and minimize risks of unauthorised access to the information

We may use your personal information, such as your name and contact details, for the following purposes:

to perform the services that you have requested, which may involve contacting you by telephone, mobile phone, fax machine, post or email, including sending you electronic direct mailers.
to allow us to promote our products, events and activities.

No Warranty, Disclaimer of Liability and Indemnity

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the high quality and accuracy of the Site, Angeline Yong Dermatology makes no warranty, express or implied, concerning the Angeline Yong Dermatology Content, the Site, software or products or services available through the Site (the “Site Services”), which are provided “as is”. Angeline Yong Dermatology expressly disclaims all warranties, including but not limited to warranties of fitness for a particular purpose and warranties of merchantability. In no event will Angeline Yong Dermatology, its affiliates or other suppliers be liable for direct, special, incidental, or consequential damages (including, without limitation, damages for loss of business profits, business interruption, loss of business information or other pecuniary loss) arising directly or indirectly from the use of (or failure to use) or reliance on the Site Services, even if Angeline Yong Dermatology and its affiliates has been advised of the possibility that such damages may arise.

Angeline Yong Dermatology does not guarantee the accuracy, content, or timeliness of the Site Services or that they or related systems are free from viruses or other contaminating or destructive properties. Angeline Yong Dermatology accepts no responsibility for the content on any site to which a hypertext link from this site exists. The links are provided “as is” with no warranty, express or implied for the information provided within them.

Upon accessing to this Site, you agree to indemnify and hold harmless Angeline Yong Dermatology and its affiliates from any claims and expenses, including reasonable legal fees, related to any breach of these Terms by you or your use of any Site Services.

Force Majeure

Angeline Yong Dermatology and its affiliates will not be liable or deemed to be in default for any delay or failure in performance or interruption of the delivery of the Angeline Yong Dermatology Content resulting directly or indirectly from any cause or circumstance beyond its or their reasonable control, including but not limited to failure of electronic or mechanical equipment or communication lines, telephone or other interconnect problems, computer viruses, unauthorized access, theft, operator errors, severe weather, earthquakes or natural disasters, strikes or other labour problems, wars, or government restrictions.

Miscellaneous

Changes to these Terms. Angeline Yong Dermatology may, in its discretion, change these Terms (including those relating to your use of Site and/or the Angeline Yong Dermatology Content. When Terms are changed, Angeline Yong Dermatology will notify you by email or by publishing details of those changes by including them in these Terms. If you use the Site after Angeline Yong Dermatology has published or notified you of the changes, you are agreeing now to be bound by those changes. If you do not agree to be bound by those changes, you should not use the Site any further after they are published. Access to certain areas of the Angeline Yong Dermatology Content may be subject to additional terms and conditions.

Advertising, Third Party Content and other Web Sites. Parts of the Site may contain advertising or other third-party content. Advertisers and other content providers are responsible for ensuring that material submitted for inclusion on the Site complies with international and national law. Angeline Yong Dermatology is not responsible for any third-party content or error, omission or inaccuracy in any advertising material. The Site may contain links to other web sites. Angeline Yong Dermatology is not responsible for the availability of these web sites or their contents.

Assignment of Agreement. This agreement is personal to you and your rights and obligations under these Terms may not be assigned, sub-licensed or otherwise transferred. This agreement may be assigned to a third party by Angeline Yong Dermatology and its affiliates.

Non-Waiver. No delay or omission on the part of either party in requiring performance by the other party of its obligations will operate as a waiver of any right.

Notices. Notices to Angeline Yong Dermatology and its affiliates must be given in writing by letter.

Severability/Survival/Statute of Limitations. If any provision of these Terms is invalid or unenforceable, such will not render all the Terms unenforceable or invalid but rather the Terms will be read and construed as if the invalid or unenforceable provision(s) are not contained therein. Any cause of action of yours with respect to these Terms must be filed in a court of competent jurisdiction in Singapore, within one year after the cause of action has arisen, or such cause will be barred, invalid, and void.

Whole Agreement. Save as expressly referred to herein, any representation, warranty, term or condition not expressly set out in these Terms shall not apply.

Headings. Headings in these Terms are for convenience only and have no legal meaning or effect.

Governing Law and Jurisdiction

These Terms shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with the Laws of the Republic of Singapore. The parties irrevocably agree that the courts of Singapore shall (subject to the paragraph below) have exclusive jurisdiction to settle any dispute which may arise out of, under, or in connection with these Terms or the legal relationship established by them, and for those purposes irrevocably submit all disputes to the jurisdiction of Singapore courts. For the exclusive benefit of Angeline Yong Dermatology and its affiliates, Angeline Yong Dermatology and its affiliates shall retain the right to bring proceedings as to the substance of the matter in the courts of the country of your residence or, where these Terms are entered into in the course of your trade or profession, the country of your principal place of business.

Media.

Minoxidil Vs Finasteride: Which Hair Loss Treatment Works Best?