Hair loss is a common issue for many people worldwide. Stress, hormonal imbalance, genetic factors, or other health issues can cause people to start losing hair alarmingly at any age. When there is severe hair loss, the scalp can become more visible, impacting the look and confidence of those affected. However, there are effective ways to reduce or stop hair fall and grow new hair.
If you are also worried about your hair loss and reading this, you may have seen that the internet suggests Minoxidil and Finasteride to counter this issue. Before you consult a doctor, please read this article to understand Finasteride vs Minoxidil differences, such as how they work, their dosage, side effects, and effectiveness. It will help you feel confident and empower you to opt for effective treatment, such as Finpecia 1mg.
Finasteride vs Minoxidil: Outlining the differences
The table below offers a run-down of the major differences between Finasteride and Minoxidil.
| Factors | Finasteride | Minoxidil |
| Mechanism of action | Prevents the conversion of Testosterone into DHT, preventing hair loss | It is a Vasodilator that works by widening the scalp’s blood vessels |
| FDA-approved | For males | For males and females |
| Mode of Application | Oral pills | Topical solution or foam |
| Dosage | 1 mg/day | 1 ml twice a day |
| Side effects | Erectile Dysfunction, decreased libido | Skin irritation, burning, excessive hair growth |
How do Finasteride and Minoxidil work
Though Finasteride was originally designed to treat Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), it is now a popular treatment for hair loss, especially in men. When an enzyme in the body starts converting Testosterone into DHT (Dihydrotestosterone), hair loss begins. DHT can damage the hair follicles, making hair growth difficult.
As Finasteride can block DHT, it can also prevent the hormone from damaging hair follicles, thereby becoming successful at decreasing or stopping hair loss. Importantly, it must be remembered that Finasteride cannot fight against other causes of hair fall, such as Cancer or other medications. Furthermore, as it can cause congenital disabilities, Finasteride is not FDA-approved for women.
However, Finasteride might be safe for premenopausal women who use oral birth control methods containing Ethinyl Estradiol and Drospirenone. Doctors may also prescribe medications such as Finpecia 1mg to women with fertility issues or who have no plan of becoming biological mothers and are battling hair loss because of genetic reasons.
On the other hand, Minoxidil is successful at stimulating hair growth because it is a Vasodilator. It doesn’t target hormones but widens the blood vessels in the hair scalp, enabling more blood flow to hair follicles. Minoxidil can also extend the Anagen phase, i.e., the active phase in the cycle of hair growth.
Furthermore, Minoxidil is FDA-approved for treating Androgenetic Alopecia. However, it will not promote hair growth if disorders like scarring alopecia has damaged or removed the existence of hair follicles. But, dermatologists can prescribe it off-label to people encountering hair loss for reasons other than pattern baldness.
Finasteride vs Minoxidil: What are the side effects
Though Minoxidil and Finasteride are typically known to be safe for most people, there might be side effects in some cases. Fortunately, the side effects are hardly severe and resolve on their own. However, it’s good to know about the side effects of both medications if you choosebetween them.
Side effects of Finasteride
Finasteride can cause side effects, such as:
- Changes in Ejaculatory volume
- Decreased libido
- Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
- Gynecomastia (swollen male breast tissue due to hormone imbalance)
The side effects listed are uncommon and may appear in a minuscule percentage of users.
Side effects of Minoxidil
Potential Minoxidil side effects include:
- Allergic contact dermatitis
- Burning sensation
- Discomfort
- Dry, itchy skin
- Excessive body hair growth
- Irritated skin
- Telogen Effluvium, a temporary hair loss condition
- Worsening of Seborrheic dermatitis (a skin condition that affects the scalp)
Using Minoxidil and Finasteride together
Finasteride and Minoxidil do not interact with each other negatively. It is safe to take Minoxidil and Finasteride together, as both have different mechanisms of action. Using both medications can help achieve improved hair density easily. However, you must remember to check the drug interactions of each medication and remember their side effects. Also, remember to consult a doctor before starting either of the medications.
Conclusion
Finasteride and Minoxidil are great hair loss treatments and promote hair growth. Although they are two medications with different mechanisms, both are safe and effective options. However, Finasteride use in women may cause birth defects in their children. Oral Finasteride is more effective in treating hair loss in men than Minoxidil.
While Finasteride can cause ED and low libido, among other side effects, Minoxidil’s side effects include excessive body hair growth, itching, and discomfort. The choice between Finasteride and Minoxidil ultimately depends on the individual’s specific needs when addressing hair loss.
Research has shown that Minoxidil and Finasteride might work better as partners than competitors in treating hair loss. If you are considering buying any of the two medications, consult your doctor for more information on Finasteride vs Minoxidil.
