Improvement in Androgenetic Alopecia (Stage V) Using Topical Minoxidil in a Retinoid Vehicle and Oral Finasteride
December 1995
in “Archives of Dermatology”
TLDR Combination therapy improves hair growth in advanced hair loss.
This study was conducted to determine if a combination of topical minoxidil and tretinoin, along with oral finasteride, could be used as an effective treatment for Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA). A 32-year old man with advanced stage V AGA saw marked improvement after 3 months, with continued gradual improvement over the next 9 months. The combination therapy showed promise in improving cosmetic appearance, although further research is needed to understand the synergistic effects of the two treatments.
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research The effect of finasteride, a 5 alpha-reductase inhibitor, on scalp skin testosterone and dihydrotestosterone concentrations in patients with male pattern baldness.
Finasteride reduces scalp DHT levels, potentially treating male pattern baldness.
research STATUS OF MEDICAL TREATMENT FOR ANDROGENETIC ALOPECIA
Minoxidil effectively promotes hair regrowth in younger patients with small balding areas.
research Hair growth effects of oral administration of finasteride, a steroid 5 alpha-reductase inhibitor, alone and in combination with topical minoxidil in the balding stumptail macaque.
Finasteride and minoxidil together promote hair growth better than either alone.
research Influence of tretinoin on the percutaneous absorption of minoxidil from an aqueous topical solution
Tretinoin cream boosts minoxidil absorption, possibly improving hair loss treatment.
research Hair Follicle Biology and Topical Minoxidil: Possible Mechanisms of Action
Minoxidil stimulates hair growth by increasing hair thickness and prolonging growth phase.
research Topical tretinoin for hair growth promotion
Related
research Finasteride Treatment May Not Prevent Telogen Effluvium After Minoxidil Withdrawal
Finasteride may not stop severe hair loss after stopping minoxidil.
research Treatments for Androgenetic Alopecia and Alopecia Areata
Minoxidil and finasteride treat hair loss; more research needed for other options.