Faculty Opinions Recommendation of Topical Finasteride for the Treatment of Male Androgenetic Alopecia and Female Pattern Hair Loss: A Review of the Current Literature
December 2021
in “
Faculty Opinions – Post-Publication Peer Review of the Biomedical Literature
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topical finasteride male androgenetic alopecia female pattern hair loss androgenetic alopecia AGA FPHL serum finasteride scalp dihydrotestosterone serum dihydrotestosterone DHT serum testosterone 2% methylcellulose liposomal gel poloxamer P407 gel oral finasteride topical minoxidil skin irritation Propecia Rogaine
TLDR Topical finasteride is promising for hair loss with minimal side effects but needs more research and approval.
The review of topical finasteride for male androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and female pattern hair loss (FPHL) over 18 years includes 28 studies on its efficacy, pharmacology, drug-delivery systems, and clinical use. It highlights the variable impact on serum finasteride, scalp, and serum dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels compared to oral administration, with no significant change in serum testosterone levels. Promising future delivery systems like 2% methylcellulose liposomal gel and poloxamer P407 gel show high skin penetration. The review finds topical finasteride comparable to oral finasteride and effective in combination with topical minoxidil. Side effects were mainly skin irritation, with no serious or unwanted sexual side effects reported. Despite the need for more data on formulations, dosing, and long-term use, topical finasteride shows promise as a future therapy, though it is not yet approved by the EMA or FDA.
