Did you know 50% of women of menopausal or postmenopausal age suffer from Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL)? This distressing and emotional experience can be challenging regardless of age.

The powerful combination of Finasteride and Minoxidil offers a scientifically backed solution for many women struggling with  Post Menopausal Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL). 

Consulting with our board-certified dermatologist hair loss expert can help tailor these treatments to your individual needs. 

Finasteride can help regrow hair and prevent further loss, while minoxidil can help maintain hair density. Using both treatments together can provide the benefits of each mechanism at the same time.

In this article, we explore  the impressive statistical outcomes of using this powerful combination, providing a detailed analysis of what you can expect in terms of hair loss prevention, hair regrowth medications, and potential side effects you should be aware of. Discover how Finasteride and Minoxidil can transform your hair and restore your confidence.

Overview of Finasteride and Minoxidil

Finasteride

Mechanism of Action: 

DHT Inhibition: All women make testosterone in their body. Finasteride inhibits the Type II 5-alpha reductase enzyme, which is responsible for converting testosterone into Dihydrotestosterone (DHT). By reducing Type II 5-alpha reductase enzyme and subsequently DHT levels, Finasteride helps to significantly slow down the miniaturization of hair follicles, which is a cause of female pattern hair loss (FPHL).

Hair Follicle Health: With lower levels of DHT, hair follicles can return to their normal size and continue to produce healthy hair.

Minoxidil

Mechanism of Action: 

• Vasodilation: Minoxidil acts as a vasodilator, increasing blood flow to hair follicles, providing them with more oxygen and nutrients. There is an important enzyme in the scalp called sulfotransferase, that influences how well (or not) topical minoxidil is absorbed. Taking oral minoxidil bypasses this scalp enzyme and uses the more efficient liver sulfotransferase. This results in a higher level of minoxidil delivered to the hair follicles which can give you better results. 

• Follicle Stimulation: Minoxidil also helps to prolong the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle and stimulates follicles that have shrunk due to DHT. How does Minoxidil promote hair growth? By acting as a vasodilator and prolonging the growth phase of hair follicles.

Usage and Side Effects:

Finasteride:

• Dosage depends on the amount of hair loss.
• Post-menopausal women and permanently sterilized women may use Finasteride. 
• Menstruating women should not use Finasteride because Finasteride is known to cause birth defects in male babies.

Common side effects of finasteride include decreased libido, breast tenderness, breast enlargement.

Minoxidil

Typical Use: Minoxidil has typically been available over-the-counter in 2% and 5% formulations and is applied directly to the scalp twice daily. 

At NuGrowthRx™ we prescribe oral Minoxidil since it is more effective, less expensive and easier to use than topical over the counter Minoxidil.

Common side effects of Minoxidil may be unwanted facial hair growth.

Statistical Outcomes

1. Hair Loss Prevention

Finasteride:

By significantly reducing DHT levels, Finasteride helps to slow or even halt the progression of hair loss.

Minoxidil:

Minoxidil helps maintain existing hair and prevent further thinning by improving scalp health and follicle function.

Combination Effectiveness:

Studies show that using both Finasteride and Minoxidil together is more effective than using either treatment alone. Combined, they address hair loss from different angles, offering better prevention and regrowth results.

2. Hair Regrowth

Finasteride:

While primarily focused on preventing further hair loss, Finasteride can also contribute to some degree of regrowth, particularly in the crown and mid-scalp areas with less impact on the frontal hairline.

Oral Minoxidil:

Minoxidil: Is more effective for regrowth, especially when used in combination with Finasteride. Users typically notice new hair growth within 3 to 6 months of consistent use.

In one study, 26 women received oral minoxidil and 26 women received topical minoxidil. After 24 weeks of treatment, there was a 12% increase in hair density for women on oral minoxidil and 7.2% increase for women applying topical minoxidil.

Combination Effectiveness:

Synergistic Effect: Combining Finasteride and Minoxidil can lead to substantial improvements in hair density and thickness. In a study, users of the combination saw a 30% increase in hair count compared to those using either treatment alone.

3. Hair Thickness

Using both treatments can lead to thicker, healthier hair. The combination of Finasteride and Minoxidil significantly improves overall hair thickness, making hair appear fuller and healthier.

Finasteride:

Finasteride ensures that hair follicles remain healthy and productive.

Many users report an increase in hair thickness, with an average increase of 18% in hair diameter after one year 

Minoxidil:

Minoxidil helps thicken individual hair strands and increases hair density, with studies showing a 45% increase in hair thickness in users after 48 weeks.

Combination Effectiveness:

One study found that women who used a combination finasteride and minoxidil for 24 weeks saw more significant improvements in hair diameter than those who only used minoxidil. 

Potential Side Effects

Finasteride:

The dosage depends on the amount of hair loss.

Post-menopausal women and permanently sterilized women may use Finasteride. Menstruating women should not use Finasteride because Finasteride is known to cause birth defects in male babies.

Common side effects include decreased libido, breast tenderness, and breast enlargement.

Minoxidil:

The most frequent adverse effect was unwanted facial hair growth (hypertrichosis).

Combination Side Effects:

Cumulative Risk: The side effects of each treatment do not generally compound, but users should monitor their reactions and consult with a dermatologist or doctor if side effects persist or worsen.

Maximizing Effectiveness

Consistency in Use:

• Finasteride: Take the medication at the same time every day to maintain steady DHT levels. 
• Minoxidil: Take the medication at the same time every day to maintain the benefit of increased oxygen and nutrient supply to the hair follicle.

Healthy Lifestyle:

• How can diet affect hair growth? To support healthy hair growth, maintaining a nutrient-rich diet for hair health is essential. Including vitamins and minerals that are known to enhance hair health. The average American citizen does not get enough micronutrients and trace minerals in their every day diet, that’s why nutrients are essential in your daily diet on your hair growth journey.
• Reduce stress through exercise, meditation, or other relaxation techniques, as stress can exacerbate hair loss. 
• If you smoke, seek help to stop smoking. 
• Attempt to sleep at least 6 hours a day.

Regular Monitoring:

• Track progress with monthly photos to observe improvements.
• Consult with your doctor regularly to adjust treatment plans as needed.
• Rookie mistakes in hair treatment shopping can include:
  Not consulting with a medical professional before starting treatment. Using non-prescription products without guidance.

Expecting immediate results without consistent use.

Take the first step towards reclaiming your hair and confidence.

Book your FREE consultation to discover how the best hair loss treatments are personalized for your specific needs!

• Using a combination of Finasteride and Minoxidil offers a statistically significant chance of preventing further hair loss, promoting regrowth, and increasing hair thickness.

• Clinical studies and user reports show that most users experience positive results within 6 to 12 months of consistent use. By understanding the statistical outcomes and potential side effects, you can set realistic expectations and make informed decisions about your hair loss treatment journey.

• Remember, individual results can vary, and it’s crucial to consult with a doctor to tailor a treatment plan that suits your specific needs and conditions. With patience, persistence, and the right science-based approach, you can achieve meaningful improvements in your hair health.

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