FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHICH ARE THE MAIN PRESCRIPTION DRUGS FOR HAIR LOSS?
Minoxidil and finasteride are the two most popular hair loss treatments currently available. Both medications are backed up by extensive scientific research and well documented results. There are notable differences between the two, especially when it comes to dosage and suitability for female patients. Minoxidil is a topical medication, available in liquid solution or foam, used directly on your scalp. Finasteride is available in tablet form and works with a more systemic effect throughout your body. Unlike Minoxidil, Finasteride is contraindicated for women, particularly in cases of childbearing potential.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE HAIR LOSS PRESCRIPTIONS TO WORK?
Both Finasteride and minoxidil usually take from 3 to 4 months of daily use to show any visible changes. As it goes with any medication, they will work differently for different people and it can take up to a year to see the full results. So, as long as you don’t experience side effects, it’s recommended to continue the medication for one full year before deciding on whether the medication is working for you. It is important to note that to maintain results, you’ll have to continue using each hair loss medication. If you stop taking either finasteride or minoxidil, your hair loss may return.
IS MINOXIDIL SAFER THAN FINASTERIDE?
Although there have been no clinical studies directly comparing low doses of finasteride and minoxidil, data has shown that finasteride can lead to more substantial side effects. Up to 2% of users of finasteride patients show symptoms of impotence, reduced sex drive and reduced semen volume. Out of the two, Minoxidil is also the only FDA approved drug in hair loss treatments for female patients.
DOES THE 82S HAIR SCIENCE SHAMPOO CONTAIN ANY HARSH CHEMICALS?
Hair Science Formula 82S is completely natural. The shampoo and conditioner formula includes eco-certified cleansers as well as Saw Palmetto, a naturally derived 5-alpha reductase inhibitor. Clinical studies have shown that Saw Palmetto can help reduce DHT production, which is a major cause of hair loss. The Hair Science Formula 82S promotes the growth of new hair while restoring the vitality of existing hair. This botanical blend contains a powerful blend of natural extracts, amino acids, and vitamins. Formula 82S works well in conjunction with other hair therapies such as the EXOSOMES and PRFM treatments.
IS NUTRAFOL SUITABLE FOR POSTPARTUM WOMEN?
Nutrafol Postpartum contains safe, clinically-tested ingredients that work together to support women's hair health as they navigate the amazing, yet often difficult, transition from pregnancy to motherhood. The ingredients in the daily Nutrafol Postpartum supplement address the major root causes of hair thinning during this time, such as nutritional deficiencies, physical stress from childbirth, and emotional stress from a new routine. Many of its natural ingredients have been used to promote a stable mood, healthier skin, less stress, and relaxation - all of which can help with sleep and energy demands at this stage of life.
ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS TO HAIR LOSS MEDICATIONS?
If you are anxious about the side effects, take comfort in the fact that both minoxidil and finasteride are well-studied medications, considered safe for most patients. But, as it goes with any other medication, there are potential side effects that should be taken into consideration before your hair loss treatment. The most common side effects of minoxidil include itching, dryness, scaling, flaking, and irritation sensations in the scalp. At the same time, finasteride can cause several sexual side effects, as well as unpleasant changes in mood. Despite alarming, these side effects are rare and reversible. And keeping your weight down, getting regular exercise, eating foods high in vitamins and minerals, cutting back on alcohol, and giving up smoking can all help immensely counter the side effects of finasteride.
CAN I TAKE MINOXIDIL AND FINASTERIDE AT THE SAME TIME?
Recent studies have found that finasteride and minoxidil are not only safe to take together but more effective when used combined. Since they work in different parts of the body, there’s no risk in taking them at the same time. Keep in mind that this associated treatment is only available for male patients, since finasteride is contraindicated for women. And you should always check for potential drug interactions with your doctor before you start any hair loss treatment.
WHICH MEDICATION IS BEST FOR FEMALE HAIR LOSS?
Female hair loss can happen for a variety of reasons, such as genetics, changing hormone levels, or just the natural aging process. There are various treatment options for female hair loss, but the only prescription drug approved for women is the topical Minoxidil or Rogaine. Minoxidil treatments are available in two concentrations: the 2% solution with twice daily application, and the 5% with a single daily application. Studies have shown that the 2% concentration is already very effective in most cases of female androgenetic alopecia and carry less potential side effects.
WHERE CAN I GET HAIR LOSS TREATMENT NEAR NEW JERSEY?
At StudioMD New Jersey we specialize in hair loss and scalp disorders. Our experienced team of hair specialists are extremely qualified to identify the type of hair loss and the best approach to overcome it. If you or someone close to you suffers from hair loss and would like to check if the medication is the right treatment route, reach out to us or make an appointment today! We’ll be happy to assess the state of your hair loss or thinning and recommend the best approach to get you closer to your goals.