From the Research
Minoxidil (Rogaine) does not affect dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels in the body. Unlike finasteride (Propecia), which works by inhibiting the enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT, minoxidil operates through an entirely different mechanism. Minoxidil is a vasodilator that increases blood flow to hair follicles and prolongs the growth phase of the hair cycle. It also stimulates dormant hair follicles by activating potassium channels and increasing growth factors in the scalp.
Key Points to Consider
- Minoxidil requires consistent twice-daily application for at least 4-6 months before results become noticeable, and continued use is necessary to maintain any hair regrowth benefits.
- If you're specifically concerned about DHT-related hair loss, you might need to consider DHT-blocking treatments like finasteride in addition to minoxidil, though this should be discussed with a healthcare provider due to potential side effects.
- A study published in 2022 1 found that topical finasteride reduces both scalp and plasma DHT levels, and may be an alternative for those concerned about the oral formulation's systemic side effects.
- Another study from 2022 2 compared the efficacy of oral minoxidil, finasteride, and dutasteride for treating androgenetic alopecia, and found that dutasteride suppresses DHT levels more than finasteride in the serum and scalp.
- A 2019 study 3 found that a topical combination of 0.25% finasteride and 3% minoxidil may be a promising option in the treatment of female pattern hair loss, with an additional benefit of increasing hair diameter.
Mechanism of Action
Minoxidil's mechanism of action is different from finasteride, and it does not affect DHT levels. Instead, it works by increasing blood flow to the hair follicles and stimulating dormant hair follicles.
Treatment Options
If you're concerned about DHT-related hair loss, you may want to consider DHT-blocking treatments like finasteride in addition to minoxidil. However, it's essential to discuss this with a healthcare provider due to potential side effects.
Important Considerations
- Minoxidil is a vasodilator that increases blood flow to hair follicles and prolongs the growth phase of the hair cycle.
- Minoxidil stimulates dormant hair follicles by activating potassium channels and increasing growth factors in the scalp.
- Consistent twice-daily application of minoxidil is necessary for at least 4-6 months before results become noticeable, and continued use is necessary to maintain any hair regrowth benefits.