Minoxidil vs Finasteride: The Ultimate Hair Loss Showdown

When it comes to fighting male pattern baldness, two names dominate: Minoxidil and Finasteride.
Both are backed by strong clinical research — but they work in different ways, target different causes, and suit different people.

Here’s how they compare so you can decide your winning formula.

Round 1: How They Work

Treatment	Mechanism	Best For
Minoxidil	Topical vasodilator — increases blood flow to follicles, prolongs growth phase	Receding hairlines, crown thinning, early-stage loss
Finasteride	Oral DHT blocker — prevents testosterone from converting to DHT (a main cause of follicle shrinkage)	Stabilizing hair loss, preventing further thinning

Round 2: Effectiveness

Minoxidil

FDA-approved for topical application (2% and 5%)
Results in 2–4 months, peak results around 12 months
Works for both men and women
Best at stimulating new growth and thickening miniaturized hairs

Finasteride

FDA-approved oral tablet (1mg daily)
Results in 3–6 months, peak results at 12 months+
Reduces hair loss progression by up to 83% in men
Best at preserving existing hair and stopping shedding

Round 3: Side Effects & Considerations

Minoxidil	Finasteride
Scalp irritation, dryness	Reduced libido (~1–2% of users)
Initial shedding in first 2–6 weeks	Rare mood changes
Must be applied twice daily	Requires daily pill
Results reverse if stopped	Results reverse if stopped

Round 4: Best Way to Use Them

💡 Pro Tip: Many hair restoration specialists recommend combining Minoxidil + Finasteride for maximum regrowth and preservation.

AM: Minoxidil foam or liquid
PM: Finasteride 1mg tablet

Verdict: Which One Wins?

Choose Minoxidil if your main goal is stimulating new growth, especially in thinning areas.
Choose Finasteride if you want to halt progression and preserve what you have.
Best Option: Use both together for a one-two punch against hair loss.

💡 Action Step: Track your hairline & crown with monthly photos — visible change can be subtle at first but significant over time.