Oral Medications

Propecia and Finasteride

Propecia contains finasteride, a medication that blocks the enzyme responsible for converting testosterone into DHT. By reducing DHT levels in your scalp, finasteride helps prevent further hair loss and, in many cases, promotes new hair growth.

Finasteride is available as the brand name Propecia or as a generic medication. Both contain the same active ingredient and work identically. 

This medication is particularly effective for hair loss at the crown and mid-scalp areas.

Dutasteride (Avodart)

Dutasteride is a more potent DHT blocker than finasteride. While finasteride blocks one type of enzyme that produces DHT, dutasteride blocks both types, leading to a more significant reduction in DHT levels.

We typically prescribe dutasteride for patients who haven’t achieved their desired results with finasteride alone. Some patients respond better to this stronger medication, especially those with more aggressive hair loss patterns.

Oral Minoxidil

While minoxidil is well-known as a topical treatment, some patients benefit from taking it orally. Oral minoxidil can be particularly effective for women with diffuse hair thinning throughout the scalp. However, this form requires careful monitoring by a dermatologist, as it can affect blood pressure and requires regular follow-up appointments.

Topical Treatments

Topical Finasteride

For patients who prefer not to take oral medications or who experience side effects from oral finasteride, topical finasteride offers an excellent alternative. Applied directly to the scalp, this formulation delivers the medication where it’s needed most while minimizing systemic absorption.

Topical finasteride can be particularly beneficial for patients concerned about potential side effects, as the localized application reduces the amount of medication that enters your bloodstream.

Rogaine and Minoxidil

Minoxidil, available over-the-counter as Rogaine or by prescription in higher strengths, works differently from finasteride. Instead of blocking hormones, minoxidil improves blood flow to hair follicles and extends the hair growth phase.

This medication comes in 2% and 5% topical solutions and foam formulations. The 5% strength is typically recommended for men, while women usually start with the 2% concentration.

Light-Based Therapies

Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT)

Low-level light therapy uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate cellular activity in hair follicles. This clinically proven treatment is completely painless and can be performed in our office or at home with appropriate devices.

The light energy helps improve the health of existing hair follicles, making them stronger and more capable of producing thicker, healthier hair. LLLT works well as a standalone treatment or in combination with other medical therapies.

Cold Laser Light Therapy

Similar to LLLT, cold laser therapy uses concentrated light energy to rejuvenate hair follicles. These treatments are performed in-office and typically require multiple sessions for optimal results.

Many patients appreciate that light-based therapies have no side effects and can be easily incorporated into their existing treatment routine.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I need to use these medications?

Hair loss medications typically need to be used continuously to maintain their benefits. If you stop treatment, hair loss will generally resume within 6-12 months. Think of these medications as ongoing maintenance for your hair health.

Are there side effects I should know about?

Most patients tolerate hair loss medications well. With finasteride, a small percentage of men may experience decreased libido or other sexual side effects. Minoxidil can occasionally cause scalp irritation or unwanted hair growth in other areas. We’ll discuss all potential side effects during your consultation.

Will insurance cover hair loss treatments?

Most insurance plans consider hair loss treatments cosmetic and don’t provide coverage. However, we offer various payment options to make treatment accessible.

Can I use multiple treatments at once?

Many patients benefit from combination therapy. Using finasteride with minoxidil, for example, can provide better results than either treatment alone. We’ll design a safe, effective combination plan tailored to your needs.

When will I see results?

Initial results typically appear within 3-6 months, with continued improvement over the first year. Some patients notice decreased hair shedding within the first few months, which is often the first sign that treatment is working.

What happens if one treatment doesn’t work for me?

If your first treatment approach isn’t providing the results you want, we have several other options to try. Hair loss treatment often requires some trial and adjustment to find the most effective combination for each individual patient.

Schedule your personalized consultation with Golden State Dermatology today to discover which hair restoration technique is right for you.