Can I use Minoxidil without Finasteride?

Can I use Minoxidil without Finasteride?

Two medications have been clinically approved for treating male pattern hair loss - Minoxidil and Finasteride. While many people recognise the benefits of using them in tandem, can you use Minoxidil without Finasteride? Here, we take a closer look at how the medications work together and explain the best course of treatment for your hair loss. 

So, can I use Minoxidil without Finasteride? 

The short answer is yes; you can use Minoxidil without Finasteride. This is because Minoxidil has been independently and clinically proven to treat male pattern hair loss when applied to the scalp as a serum, as a 2% or 5% solution. However, a 2002 study found that a 5% Minoxidil solution was “significantly superior” to a 2% solution, highlighting the value of opting for a 5% solution, particularly if you’re planning to use Minoxidil in isolation to treat hair loss. Just because you can use Minoxidil without Finasteride, should you? 

The best treatments for male pattern hair loss 

A 1999 study found that oral Finasteride “promotes hair growth and prevents further hair loss in a significant proportion of men with male pattern hair loss.” As such, Finasteride is widely regarded as the leading treatment for male pattern hair loss and is effective in 8/10 men. Taken orally as a tablet, Finasteride blocks the growth of DHT, a hormone that binds to the receptors of your hair follicles, causing them to shrink and die. But the reality is that Finasteride and Minoxidil perform different roles, which means that using them in tandem is advantageous. 

While Finasteride blocks DHT, Minoxidil increases the flow of blood and oxygen to the areas of your scalp affected by male pattern hair loss. This provides your hair follicles with the nutrients that they need to grow and thrive. While it’s best to combine the treatments in their respective forms, it’s also possible to opt for a Topical Spray, which combines Minoxidil and Finasteride. A 2015 study found that the use of a topical spray can be beneficial for people with male pattern hair loss, highlighting why it can be a viable option for people who don’t like the idea of taking a daily tablet alongside the use of a serum.

The bottom line is that you certainly can use Minoxidil in isolation to treat hair loss, but you are likely to see much better results if you combine it with Finasteride. There are also several other products that can supplement the efficacy of Minoxidil, as we explain below. 

Introducing our Full Works treatment plan 

At Sons, we want to provide every man with the best possible chance of combatting male pattern hair loss. That’s why we’ve put together our popular Full Works treatment plan, featuring Finasteride, Minoxidil, Biotin, and saw-palmetto shampoo. In addition to the two clinically backed hair loss treatments, the plan consists of Biotin - vitamin B7 - that is integral in the growth of keratin, which can improve the strength and structure of your hair. Saw palmetto is a natural DHT blocker, and its inclusion in our shampoo can contribute positively to your overall treatment. 

If you’re currently on the fence about whether to use Minoxidil in isolation or if you think you should combine it with Finasteride and other products, start a consultation today to explore your options.

All of our blog articles are reviewed by our Medical Director before publication.