From the Guidelines
Treatment for androgenetic alopecia typically involves a multi-faceted approach combining medications, lifestyle changes, and proper hair care, with finasteride being a primary option for male pattern baldness, as evidenced by its ability to block DHT production 1. When considering treatment options, it's essential to weigh the potential benefits and risks. For medication options, minoxidil (Rogaine) is available over-the-counter in 2% or 5% solutions, applied twice daily to the scalp, with results potentially visible after 4-6 months of consistent use.
- Finasteride (Propecia), a prescription medication taken as a 1mg pill daily, works by blocking DHT production and is primarily effective for male pattern baldness, with some studies suggesting its potential benefits in treating central serous chorioretinopathy 1.
- For women, spironolactone may be prescribed at 50-200mg daily to address hormonal causes of hair loss.
- Nutritional supplements containing biotin (2.5-5mg daily), iron, zinc, and vitamin D can help address deficiencies that contribute to thinning hair. Lifestyle modifications are equally important, including:
- Reducing heat styling
- Avoiding tight hairstyles that pull on the scalp
- Using gentle sulfate-free shampoos
- Maintaining a balanced diet rich in proteins and nutrients Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, performed every 3-4 months, utilize your own blood components to stimulate hair follicles. It is crucial to note that consistency is key, as most treatments require several months of regular use before noticeable improvement occurs, and patients should be aware of the potential side effects of finasteride, such as loss of libido, as reported in some studies 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Minoxidil topical solution 5% is a clear, light amber liquid medication containing 5% minoxidil for use only on the scalp to help regrow hair in men. Minoxidil topical solution 5% is for use only by men Minoxidil topical solution 5% is more likely to regrow hair in men with hair loss in the range shown. The amount of hair regrowth is different for each person. Not everyone will respond to minoxidil topical solution 5%. Results may be seen as early as 2 months with twice daily use. For some men, it may take at least 4 months for results to be seen
Treatment Options for Androgenetic Alopecia (Hair Thinning):
- Minoxidil topical solution 5% is a treatment option for androgenetic alopecia (hair thinning) in men.
- It is applied directly to the scalp, twice a day, to help regrow hair.
- Results may be seen as early as 2 months with twice daily use, but it may take at least 4 months for some men to see results.
- The amount of hair regrowth is different for each person, and not everyone will respond to minoxidil topical solution 5% 2, 2.
From the Research
Treatment Options for Androgenetic Alopecia
The following treatment options are available for androgenetic alopecia:
- Topical minoxidil 2 to 5% 3
- Oral finasteride 3, 4, 5, 6
- Oral dutasteride 3
- Hair transplantation 3, 5
- Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) 4, 7, 5, 6
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy 4, 5
- Exosome treatments 3, 5
- Regenerative medicines, such as autologous platelet-rich plasma, adipose-derived stem cells, micrograft generation, and exosome 3
- Hormonal therapies 5
- Nutraceuticals 5
Efficacy of Treatment Options
Studies have shown that:
- LLLT stimulates hair growth in both men and women 7
- Combination therapy of LLLT and minoxidil is more effective than monotherapy 7
- Minoxidil, finasteride, and LLLT are effective for promoting hair growth in men with androgenetic alopecia 6
- Minoxidil is effective in women with androgenetic alopecia 6
Considerations for Treatment Selection
When selecting a treatment option, consider the following factors: