Want finasteride to penetrate better? The ideal solvent to maximize its effect

If you are using topical finasteride to treat hair loss, it is important to know that the way the product is formulated can influence its absorption and, therefore, its effectiveness.

What is a solvent?

A solvent is a substance that dissolves another substance to form a uniform mixture. In the case of topical products, solvents help active ingredients, such as finasteride, to be better distributed and penetrate the skin. Choosing the right solvent is key to improving the effectiveness of the treatment.

Why is it important for finasteride to penetrate better?

Finasteride works by blocking DHT (dihydrotestosterone), the hormone responsible for hair follicles shrinking and producing increasingly fine hairs until they disappear. In its oral form, finasteride enters the bloodstream and reduces DHT levels throughout the body. However, in its topical form, it needs to pass through the skin of the scalp to reach the hair follicles and block DHT directly in that area. If absorption is not efficient, its effect may be very limited and not deliver the expected results.

Propylene Glycol: The Key Solvent

A study found that propylene glycol is a common ingredient in finasteride creams and solutions due to its ability to enhance the penetration of the substance into the skin. This compound is widely used in dermatological products because it acts as a "vehicle" that transports finasteride into the deeper layers of the skin, ensuring that it reaches the hair follicles more effectively.

What are microemulsions?

Microemulsions are an advanced technology used in dermatological products to enhance the absorption of active ingredients. These are mixtures of water, oil, and other compounds that help finasteride penetrate the skin better. They work by breaking down finasteride into extremely small particles, which improves its absorption and effectiveness.

Microemulsions: A More Advanced Alternative

Another way to improve the absorption of finasteride is through microemulsions. These are mixtures of water and oil with other ingredients that facilitate the penetration of the drug into the skin. They work by breaking down finasteride into extremely small particles, which improves its absorption.

One study found that when microemulsions contain propylene glycol and oleic acid, finasteride is released faster and absorbed more effectively into the scalp. In simple terms, microemulsions are a technology that can make topical finasteride work more efficiently, ensuring that it reaches where it is really needed.

Other factors that affect the absorption of topical finasteride

In addition to the solvent used, there are other aspects that can influence the effectiveness of topical finasteride:

Scalp condition: A clean scalp free of oil or residue can allow for better absorption. Use of exfoliating agents: Ingredients such as salicylic acid can help remove dead cells and improve product penetration. Exposure time: Leaving the product on the scalp for the recommended amount of time allows for greater absorption. Application frequency: Applying it regularly is key to consistent results.

Conclusion

If you're looking for topical finasteride to work as well as possible, choose a formula that contains propylene glycol or uses microemulsions. These ingredients improve absorption into the skin and make it easier for the medication to reach the hair follicles, where it can really do its job. Additionally, taking into account factors such as scalp cleanliness and consistency in application can further optimize results. The better finasteride is absorbed, the greater its ability to block DHT and prevent hair miniaturization.

sources

Arrieta Ballesteros, C. (2020). Microemulsions and their application as drug delivery systems. University of Cartagena. Retrieved from https://repositorio.unicartagena.edu.co/bitstream/handle/11227/14597/CRISTIAN%20ARRIETA%20BALLESTEROS%20-%20Trabajo%20Final%20Monografia.pdf?isAllowed=y&sequence=1

Alía, E. (2015). Preparation of minoxidil and finasteride in hydroalcoholic solution. Magistral formulation. Retrieved from https://www.formulacionmagistral.org/blog/elaboracion/elaboracion-de-minoxidil-y-finasteride-en-solucion-hidroalcoholica/

García-Hernández, M. J., Camacho Martínez, F. M., & Moreno Giménez, J. C. (2016). Therapeutic advances in trichology. Dermo-Sifiliographic Acts, 107(9), 772-784. Retrieved from https://www.actasdermo.org/es-novedades-terapeuticas-tricologia-articulo-resumen-S0001731016304379

Caserini, M., Palmieri, R., Radicioni, M. and Zanotta, N. (2021). Efficacy and safety of topical finasteride spray solution for male pattern baldness: a randomized controlled clinical trial. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 35(2), 439-447. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34634163/

Albarelo Pharmacy Laboratory. (n.d.). Finastopic - Treatment of alopecia. Retrieved from https://albarelo.es/finastopic/