NON-SURGICAL TREATMENTS FOR MALE PATTERN BALDNESS

Male pattern baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is the most common cause of hair loss in men. While surgical hair transplants offer permanent solutions, many individuals seek effective non-surgical treatments to slow down hair loss, stimulate regrowth, and maintain their existing hair. Fortunately, advances in medical science provide several non-invasive options. Here, we explore four of the most popular and clinically proven non-surgical treatments: minoxidil, finasteride, dutasteride, and Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy.

Minoxidil (Topical and Oral)

Minoxidil is one of the most widely recognised treatments for male pattern baldness and is available in both topical and oral formulations.

Topical Minoxidil: Available over the counter as a liquid or foam (e.g., Regaine®), topical minoxidil is applied directly to the scalp twice daily. It works by improving blood flow to hair follicles and prolonging the growth phase of the hair cycle, resulting in thicker, fuller hair over time.
Oral Minoxidil: Originally developed as a blood pressure medication, low-dose oral minoxidil has recently gained popularity for hair loss management. Prescribed under medical supervision, oral minoxidil can be a more convenient alternative for those who find topical application messy or inconsistent.

Effectiveness: Clinical studies show that consistent use of minoxidil can slow hair loss and, in many cases, stimulate regrowth within 3–6 months.

Finasteride (Oral and Topical)

Finasteride is a prescription medication that addresses the hormonal root of male pattern baldness.

Oral Finasteride: Taken once daily, finasteride (e.g., Propecia®) inhibits the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT)—the hormone primarily responsible for shrinking hair follicles. By reducing DHT levels, finasteride slows hair loss and promotes regrowth.
Topical Finasteride: Newer formulations combine finasteride with topical application, aiming to minimize systemic absorption and reduce the risk of side effects, such as decreased libido or mood changes. Topical finasteride can be an excellent option for patients who are concerned about the risks of oral medication.

Effectiveness: Studies have shown that oral finasteride can reduce hair loss progression by up to 83% and stimulate regrowth in many users. Topical forms show similar efficacy with potentially fewer systemic side effects.

Dutasteride (Primarily Oral)

Dutasteride is a potent 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor, similar to finasteride, but it blocks both type I and type II isoenzymes, leading to a more comprehensive reduction of DHT levels.

Oral Dutasteride: Although primarily prescribed for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), dutasteride (e.g., Avodart®) is increasingly used off-label for male pattern baldness. It is considered even more effective than finasteride at reducing scalp DHT levels.
Topical Dutasteride: While less common, experimental topical formulations are being explored to harness dutasteride’s potency with fewer systemic effects.

Effectiveness: Dutasteride can be highly effective in stabilizing hair loss and promoting regrowth, often providing superior results compared to finasteride, though it may also carry a slightly higher risk of side effects.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is a natural, regenerative treatment that uses the patient's own blood to stimulate hair growth.

How it Works: A small amount of blood is drawn, processed to concentrate the platelets, and then injected into the scalp. Platelets contain growth factors that promote healing, tissue regeneration, and follicular stimulation.
Treatment Regimen: PRP therapy typically involves an initial series of three treatments spaced about a month apart, followed by maintenance sessions every 4–6 months.

Effectiveness: Clinical studies and patient experiences show that PRP therapy can significantly improve hair thickness, density, and overall scalp health when used either alone or alongside other medical treatments like minoxidil or finasteride.

Which Treatment is Right for You?

Choosing the right treatment—or combination of treatments—depends on various factors, including the stage of hair loss, medical history, lifestyle preferences, and treatment goals. Many patients achieve the best results by combining treatments, such as using topical minoxidil and oral finasteride together, or adding PRP therapy for enhanced regrowth.

Before starting any hair loss treatment, it’s essential to consult with a qualified medical professional who can tailor a personalised plan based on your individual needs.

Ready to take the first step?
Book a consultation today and discover how you can restore your confidence with non-surgical solutions for male pattern baldness.

NON-SURGICAL TREATMENTS FOR MALE PATTERN BALDNESS​