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Finasteride & Minoxidil: The Most Effective Hair Loss Combo?

Written by Dr. Quincy Raya

Published 03/09/2025

Updated 03/21/2025

Out of all the hair loss treatments available today, two stand out: finasteride and minoxidil. But what exactly is the difference between the two, and is it possible to use both at the same time?

Below, we’ll break down how finasteride and minoxidil work, review scientific research supporting their effectiveness, and explore potential side effects. We’ll also discuss why combining these two treatments may be the best strategy for tackling hair loss.

Do Minoxidil and Finasteride Really Work?

Minoxidil and finasteride have been around for decades and have been extensively studied. Both treatments have been shown to slow down male pattern baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved oral finasteride and topical minoxidil as treatments for hair loss. While topical finasteride and oral minoxidil are also available, they are still awaiting full FDA approval.

Research shows that both medications are effective for treating hair loss, though they work in different ways. Understanding these differences can help determine the best option for you.

How Minoxidil Works

Minoxidil is a vasodilator, meaning it widens blood vessels and increases blood flow to the scalp. This process helps supply more oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles, stimulating hair growth.

Topical minoxidil is available as a foam or liquid solution and is applied directly to the scalp. It is believed to prolong the anagen phase of the hair growth cycle, allowing hair to grow for a longer period before shedding.

Minoxidil is also effective for other types of hair loss, including female pattern hair loss and stress-related hair shedding.

How Finasteride Works

Finasteride works by blocking dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone responsible for shrinking hair follicles in men with male pattern baldness.

DHT is a male androgen hormone that plays an essential role in early development but can cause hair loss in adulthood. Some men have higher DHT levels or are genetically more sensitive to its effects.

Finasteride is a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor, meaning it prevents the conversion of testosterone into DHT. Unlike minoxidil, which stimulates hair growth, finasteride prevents further hair loss by targeting its root cause.

Minoxidil vs. Finasteride: Which is More Effective?

One study published in 2004 found that oral finasteride was slightly more effective than minoxidil in treating male pattern baldness. However, the difference was minimal, and both treatments produced noticeable results.

The best option depends on individual needs:

• Finasteride is only approved for men, while minoxidil can be used by both men and women

• Finasteride only treats male pattern baldness, while minoxidil can help with various types of hair loss

• Oral finasteride may cause hormonal side effects, whereas topical minoxidil’s side effects are limited to the scalp

While both treatments work well individually, research suggests they are most effective when used together.

Using Finasteride and Minoxidil Together

Combining finasteride and minoxidil has been shown to provide superior results compared to using either treatment alone.

A review of randomized controlled trials found that the combination of oral finasteride and topical minoxidil led to greater improvements in hair density while maintaining a strong safety profile.

Another study published in the Indian Dermatology Online Journal found that patients who switched from oral finasteride to topical finasteride while continuing minoxidil use were able to maintain good hair density.

A 2012 double-blind study compared topical minoxidil to a combination of topical finasteride and minoxidil. The group using both treatments saw a greater reduction in hair loss, although hair regrowth remained similar.

Choosing the Right Hair Loss Treatment

If you’re unsure whether to start with minoxidil, finasteride, or both, here are some key considerations:

• If hair loss is mild, minoxidil may be a good starting point since it is available over the counter

• If the goal is to stop hair loss at the root, finasteride is the better option as it blocks DHT production

• If one treatment causes side effects, the other may be a good alternative

• If you want maximum effectiveness, using both treatments together is the best approach

Both oral and topical versions of finasteride and minoxidil are available, allowing you to choose the format that suits your needs.

Finasteride vs. Minoxidil: Side Effects

Both medications are generally safe, but some side effects have been reported.

Potential Side Effects of Minoxidil

• Skin irritation

• Burning or itching at the application site

• Dry or flaky scalp

• Increased hair shedding (temporary)

Minoxidil can cause an initial shedding phase as hair follicles transition into the growth phase. This usually improves after a few months.

Potential Side Effects of Finasteride

Oral finasteride may cause hormonal side effects, including:

• Reduced libido

• Erectile dysfunction

• Changes in ejaculatory volume

These side effects are uncommon and often resolve once the medication is stopped.

Topical finasteride has a lower risk of systemic side effects, but some users report mild symptoms such as:

• Headaches

• Lightheadedness

• Testicular discomfort

The Bottom Line on Minoxidil vs. Finasteride

Rather than choosing between minoxidil and finasteride, the best approach is to use them together.

• Minoxidil increases blood flow to the scalp, helping stimulate hair growth

• Finasteride blocks DHT, protecting hair follicles from damage and preventing further hair loss

• Studies show that combining both treatments leads to better results than using either one alone

At &you, we offer both topical and oral minoxidil and finasteride to suit your needs.

The key to success is early treatment and consistency. Hair loss treatments work best before significant hair loss occurs, but they can still help restore and maintain hair even at later stages.

If you’re ready to take control of hair loss, we can connect you with a licensed Filipino healthcare provider online to help you find the best treatment plan for you.

Start your hair regrowth journey today.

Dr. Quincy Raya

Dr. Quincy Raya is a preventive medicine physician with over a decade of clinical experience specializing in patient wellness, integrative and nutritional medicine, and men’s and women’s health. She serves as a leading expert in anti-aging and regenerative medicine, bringing a comprehensive approach to preventive healthcare. Dr. Raya has trained extensively in Anti-Aging Medicine with Dr. Thierry Hertoghe in Paris, Preventive Medicine at Dresden International University in Germany, Andrology and Men’s Health with Dr. Peter Lim at Gleneagles Hospital in Singapore, and Nutritional Medicine with the Australian College of Nutritional and Environmental Medicine. In September 2021, she completed the Leadership in Medicine Program at Harvard Medical School, further honing her expertise in forward-thinking healthcare solutions. Throughout her career, Dr. Raya has played a pivotal role in advancing evidence-based wellness practices, blending medical expertise with cutting-edge integrative approaches. She has worked with a range of renowned medical institutions and publications, contributing insights on hormonal health, longevity, and preventive strategies. Her work has been featured in The Manila Times, where she has written extensively on health optimization, nutrition, and regenerative medicine. Dr. Raya is the founder of Raya Regenerative & Preventive Clinic and a key figure at Centuria Medical Makati, where she continues to shape the future of holistic, patient-centric care. Her passion for wellness extends beyond the clinic, as she remains committed to educating and empowering individuals through her clinical practice, research, and writing. Dr. Raya is based in the Philippines and enjoys exploring new advancements in longevity, wellness, and preventive health. You can find more about Dr. Raya here.