If you are suffering from hair loss and are looking for a non-invasive treatment option, topical finasteride might be the best solution for you.
Before topical finasteride, there was only an oral form of this prescription medication. Oral finasteride was first created to treat men who suffered from an enlarged prostate. Patients who were taking finasteride noticed an increase in hair growth. Years later, low doses of finasteride started to be used to treat hair loss among men.
Just like any prescription medication, oral finasteride has the potential for side effects. Possible side effects include headaches, dizziness, swelling in hands and feet and decreased sexual drive. Although rare, many men decide not to take the risk with the oral medication. Luckily today, there is a topical option that has proved to work just as well with a much lower risk of unwanted side effects.
How does topical finasteride work?
Topical finasteride, or “Finoxidil”, is a powerful combination that contains 5% Minoxidil, .25% finasteride and a topical steroid that reduces irritation and enhances penetration. When applied directly to the troubled areas, the medication is localized and reduces DHT (dihydrotestosterone) levels in the scalp. By reducing DHT levels in the scalp, it leads to increased hair growth and even slower hair loss. DHT is a hormone that gives men their male characteristics. When a males body converts testosterone to DHT it miniaturizes the hair follicles, which then contributes to male pattern baldness.
Results with Topical Finasteride
After three to four months of consistent use, most patients see noticeable hair growth. It can take up to nine months to see the full effects of the medication. With consistent use after approximately nine months, patients are typically able to maintain fuller, thicker hair. Patients who stop taking topical finasteride once they’ve achieved their final results will experience gradual hair loss over the next year.
Topical finasteride is the best topical solution for hair loss because side effects are rare and it provides patients with long lasting results. It is a great at-home solution that can be used prior to and/or during other more invasive hair restoration treatments.
Because topical finasteride is a prescription medication, we do require that individuals who are interested in this topical solution meet with one of our surgeons.
If you are suffering from male or female pattern baldness and looking for hair loss solutions in Draper or Layton, Utah, please call our office at (801)776-2220 or contact us HERE.