Minoxidil (5% foam)
Dilates the blood vessels in the scalp → Improves the delivery of nutrients to the hair follicles
Prolongs the anagen (growth phase) → Increases the diameter of the hair shaft
Topical Finasteride (0.25%-0.5%)
Inhibits 5α-reductase Type II → Reduces dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the scalp by 60%-70%
Preserves the existing hair while promoting the recovery of miniaturized hair follicles
Clinical Efficacy
Studies have shown that 65%-82% of users will experience significant hair growth after 12 months (while the proportion is 45%-55% for monotherapy)
The combination treatment usually produces results 2 to 3 months faster than a single drug
A synergistic effect has been observed in maintaining the treatment effect over the long term
Important Notes
Regulatory Status
Fixed-dose foams approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) (such as Keeps®) require a prescription for purchase in the United States.
Compound pharmacies may customize the formulations (for example, adding tretinoin)
Side Effects
Topical finasteride can reduce systemic absorption (0.3%-0.5%, while it is 63% for oral administration)
Possible reactions: The incidence of contact dermatitis is 2%-5%, and there is a 1.5% change in sexual desire
Optimization Tips
Apply the foam to the dry scalp 1 hour after taking a shower to achieve maximum penetration.
Use ketoconazole shampoo twice a week to enhance the therapeutic effect.
Monitor the progress by means of trichograms (hair counts) every month.
Precautions
It is not recommended for women (there is a risk of teratogenicity)
It is necessary to use it daily for at least 18 months to stabilize the effect.
Genetic susceptibility plays an important role in the treatment response.
If personalized advice is needed, you may consider:
Conducting dermatoscopy to assess the density of hair follicles
Testing the serum levels of dihydrotestosterone/testosterone
Conducting nutritional index tests (iron, zinc, biotin)
