As hair loss becomes a significant issue among men and women, the demand for medications to stop them from getting bald is increasing. People are starting to give importance to their appearance, specifically to their crowning glory. Since then, the medical field hasn’t stopped developing the best treatment and medication that can solve these hair problems. And with this, finasteride and minoxidil were discovered.
It is important to know that finasteride and minoxidil function differently. For us to better understand it, first, let’s discuss and get to know them one by one.
Finasteride
Finasteride is a generic version for its brand name Propecia or Proscar and is considered as a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor. It comes in a form of a tablet that is consumed orally. In 1992, finasteride was developed exclusively as a treatment for BPH or benign prostatic hyperplasia in reducing its symptoms and was FDA-approved. However, as they continue to observe its effects during tests and experiments, they notice how it affects hair growth. And in 1997, developers have also manufactured finasteride as a treatment for male pattern baldness or androgenetic alopecia of which was approved by the FDA as well.
Finasteride helps in reducing the amount of Dihydrotestosterone or DHT in the male body. DHT is the enzyme that contributes to the enlargement of the prostate. At the same time, DHT damages the hair follicles and speeds up the hair cycle which results in an abnormal amount of hair loss. As finasteride reduces DHT, the risks of hair loss to men struggling with androgenetic alopecia also lessen.
Studies have proven the effectivity of finasteride. Although the majority of users did not experience any side effects, there are few reported cases that finasteride causes sexual dysfunction among other side effects. Also, finasteride is strictly for men, specifically men who are not trying to have babies. Its skin contact with pregnant women may cause birth defects to male babies. If you want to try finasteride, it is safe to consult your medical provider first for they’ll know if this drug may cause risks to your health. But if you’re good to go, it is available at Numan – finasteride tablets UK.
Minoxidil
Minoxidil, on the other hand, as a hair treatment comes in a topical form. It is generic for Rogaine and Theroxidil and is considered as a vasodilator drug. Minoxidil improves the blood flow on your scalp by widening the blood vessels, thus, improving the growth of your hair.
However, it is important to keep in mind that minoxidil does not regrow hair on a scalp that is completely bald. Which means it won’t improve your receding hairline. What it does is it helps the hair follicles in growing stronger and thicker hair and also slows down the hair cycle resulting in slower hair loss.
Minoxidil is tested to be effective and safe to use for both men and women, however, there are still no studies regarding effects on an unborn baby once used by pregnant women. Again, consultation with your doctor is important since it may also cause side effects like allergies, eczema, etc.
Bottom line: How are they different from each other?
Based on what we’ve shown above, finasteride and minoxidil are two completely different medications that we cannot compare them from one another. Each has its own functions and can benefit the body differently. In short, finasteride helps in promoting hair follicles to grow new hair while minoxidil helps in growing healthier strands from already existing follicles.
Now the question is “can you use them at the same time?”. The answer here is yes, they are safe to use together and can even produce a better result.