Dutasteride: What if I just want to grow back some hair without taking pills every day?

If you're looking to stimulate hair growth without having to take pills every day, there are several options backed by scientific studies, such as minoxidil and finasteride, which are available in topical and oral forms. Dutasteride, on the other hand, is only available in oral form. But is it possible to use it topically? Is there an alternative that allows you to avoid taking pills every day?

Topical Dutasteride: Ongoing Research

Although oral dutasteride is an effective treatment for androgenic alopecia, some prefer to avoid the possible systemic side effects associated with its use, such as sexual dysfunction or gynecomastia. In this context, research on topical dutasteride has emerged as a possible alternative, since its direct application to the scalp could minimize side effects in other areas of the body. A recent study found that the combination of fractional CO2 laser with topical dutasteride was more efficient in improving male pattern baldness than fractional CO2 laser alone. How to Apply Topical Dutasteride For dutasteride to be absorbed well into the scalp, it needs to be mixed with certain liquids. There are two common ways to prepare it:

Lotion or cream: It is mixed with ingredients that allow it to be applied in the form of a cream or lotion, ideal for those looking for a gentler application.

Spray or liquid solution: It is mixed with alcohol and water to make a liquid that is easy to apply with a spray or dropper.

Dutasteride and Minoxidil: A common combination

It is common for topical dutasteride to be mixed with minoxidil, another known treatment for hair loss. While dutasteride helps reduce DHT, minoxidil improves blood circulation in the scalp and stimulates hair growth. Together, they may offer better results in some cases.

Some brands on the market have begun to offer products that combine these ingredients, such as Master Formulas from specialized pharmacies, Xyon Health, MinoxidilMax, and other customized dermatological preparations. However, these products do not always have solid clinical studies supporting their effectiveness and safety.

Does Topical Dutasteride Really Work?

Despite the interest in this method, there is not enough scientific evidence to confirm that topical dutasteride is effective or safe in the long term. It is important to note that its commercial availability is limited and more clinical studies are still required to confirm its long-term efficacy and safety. Potential side effects could include local reactions at the application site, but these are expected to be less frequent than with oral administration.

Considerations about oral dutasteride

Oral dutasteride remains one of the most effective treatments for androgenic alopecia, as it blocks the action of the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, significantly reducing the levels of DHT, the hormone responsible for hair loss. However, it needs to be taken regularly to maintain the results, and when the treatment is stopped, hair loss may reappear. In addition, some users may experience side effects such as decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and gynecomastia.

Sources

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Martínez Simón, Clinic. (2021, October 1). Topical dutasteride for alopecia. Retrieved from https://martinezsimon.com/dutasteride-topico-para-la-alopecia/

Farmacia Viéitez. (2020, October 1). Dutasteride in magistral formulation. Retrieved from https://blog.farmaciavieitez.com/dutasterida-en-formulacion-magistral/

Farmacia Castellana 245. (2021, February 8). Magistral Formulas, treatment of alopecia. Retrieved from https://farmaciacastellana245.com/2021/02/formulas-magistrales-tratamiento-de-la-alopecia/

Dermar. (2020, March 1). MAGA (Male Androgenetic Alopecia) Pharmacological Treatment Algorithm. Retrieved from https://dermar.es/algoritmo-de-tratamiento-farmacologico-maga-alopecia-androgenetica-masculina/