Minoxidil vs finasteride: which one should you start with?

Minoxidil and finasteride are the two most studied hair-loss treatments, and they do different jobs.

Minoxidil is applied to the scalp (or taken orally under supervision) and improves blood flow to the follicle, extending the growth phase. It does not touch the hormone driving pattern hair loss.

Finasteride is an oral prescription that lowers DHT, the hormone that shrinks follicles in androgenetic hair loss. It is better at stopping further loss than at regrowing what is gone.

If your goal is to hold on to what you have, a DHT-focused option matters most. If your goal is visible regrowth, topical minoxidil is usually part of the plan. Many clinicians combine them.

Take the quiz on the home page and we will point you at the option that matches your stage, routine and budget.