Some guys just aren’t phased by hair loss. However, for others, it can be an extremely distressing issue. If your locks are disappearing and you’re looking for a way to stop this process, keep reading. The good news is, there are two effective hair loss treatments available – finasteride and minoxidil. In this blog, we take a look at these two medicines and how they work.
Finasteride
Finasteride is a popular treatment designed to prevent and even reverse the effects of hair loss. Studies have shown it to be clinically effective in up to 90 per cent of men with male-pattern baldness, and two thirds of guys who use finasteride correctly experience hair regrowth. In the UK, it is a prescription-only medication that you can request from your GP. You can also access finasteride from Online Doctor LloydsPharmacy and other reputable online websites.
How it works
Finasteride works by preventing the male sex hormone testosterone from being converted into the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which prevents the hair follicles from getting the nutrients they need to live and ultimately causing them to shrink. When the production of DHT is stopped, the follicles have a chance to grow and return to their normal health and size. As a result, you may find you’re left with thicker, healthier tresses. Finasteride is a tablet that must be taken every day.
It’s important to note that it can take up to six months of using finasteride before you see any difference in your hair growth, and if you stop the treatment, hair loss can resume.
Minoxidil
Minoxidil is another hair loss treatment. It is a lotion that is rubbed on the scalp on a daily basis, and it is available from pharmacies without a prescription. While it can be used by men with male-pattern baldness, it’s suggested that women respond better to this particular treatment.
How it works
It’s not completely understood how minoxidil works, but it’s thought that it promotes hair regrowth. There are two types available – one that contains five per cent minoxidil and one that contains two per cent. Some evidence suggests that the stronger version is more effective, however it’s also thought that it can trigger more side effects such as dryness and itchiness.
Like finasteride, minoxidil needs to be used for a number of months before any changes in hair growth is seen. It’s important to note that hair loss can resume if the treatment is stopped.
To learn more about finasteride, minoxidil and the other treatment options available, you should speak to a medical professional or you can carry out your own research online.