Finasteride is the most effective single treatment for male pattern baldness, stopping progression in 90% of men, while minoxidil works through a different mechanism and is available without prescription, and PRP offers regenerative benefits that neither medication provides, making combination therapy the optimal approach for comprehensive results. Understanding how these treatments differ helps you make informed decisions.

If you're researching hair loss treatments, you've likely encountered all three options. Each works differently, has distinct advantages, and suits different situations. This head-to-head comparison explains everything you need to know.

Quick Comparison Overview

FactorMinoxidilFinasteridePRPHow it worksVasodilation, extends growth phaseBlocks DHT productionGrowth factor stimulationAddresses cause?NoYesPartiallyPrescription needed?NoYesN/A (procedure)ApplicationTwice daily topicalOnce daily oralSessions every 4-6 weeksEffectivenessModerateHighHigh (early stage)For women?Yes (2%)No (childbearing age)YesSide effectsMinimal2-4% sexualMinimalCost (monthly)£15-30£10-40£100-150 (amortised)Time to results4-6 months6-12 months3-6 months

Minoxidil: The Over-the-Counter Option

What it is:

Minoxidil is a topical solution or foam applied directly to the scalp twice daily. Originally developed as a blood pressure medication, hair growth was discovered as a side effect. Now available as Rogaine, Regaine, and generic versions.

How it works:

The exact mechanism isn't fully understood, but minoxidil:

• Widens blood vessels around follicles (vasodilation)

• Extends the anagen (growth) phase of hair cycle

• May directly stimulate follicle cells

• Increases follicle size

Important: Minoxidil does NOT address DHT, the underlying cause of male pattern baldness.

Effectiveness:

• Stops progression in approximately 60% of users

• Regrows hair in approximately 40%

• Works better for crown than hairline

• Works better in early hair loss

• Results are lost if treatment stops

Advantages:

✓ No prescription required ✓ Available over the counter ✓ Safe for most people ✓ Suitable for women ✓ No systemic hormonal effects ✓ Affordable

Disadvantages:

✗ Doesn't address the cause ✗ Twice daily application required ✗ Results reverse when stopped ✗ Less effective for hairline ✗ Can cause unwanted facial hair in women

Best for: Those wanting non-prescription option, women with hair loss, as addition to other treatments, those who can't take finasteride.

Finasteride: The Gold Standard for Men

What it is:

Finasteride is an oral medication taken once daily. Originally developed for enlarged prostate (at higher doses), it's prescribed at 1mg for hair loss under brand names Propecia and generics.

How it works:

Finasteride blocks the enzyme 5-alpha reductase that converts testosterone to DHT. This reduces scalp DHT by approximately 70%, slowing or stopping follicle miniaturisation.

Important: Finasteride addresses the root cause of male pattern baldness.

Effectiveness:

• Stops progression in 90% of men (gold standard)

• Regrows hair in 65-70%

• Works on both crown and hairline

• Most effective when started early

• Results maintained with continued use

Advantages:

✓ Most effective single treatment ✓ Once daily pill (easy compliance) ✓ Addresses the underlying cause ✓ Well-studied over 25+ years ✓ Affordable (especially generic) ✓ Works for hairline AND crown

Disadvantages:

✗ Prescription required ✗ Not suitable for women of childbearing age ✗ Side effects in 2-4% of men ✗ Takes 6-12 months for full effect ✗ Results reverse if stopped

Side Effects (Important Context):

Sexual side effects (reduced libido, erectile changes) occur in 2-4% of users. In most cases, these resolve upon stopping the medication. "Post-finasteride syndrome" is reported anecdotally but not consistently demonstrated in clinical studies.

The perspective: 96-98% of men experience no side effects. Many men have taken finasteride safely for 20+ years.

Best for: Men wanting maximum effectiveness, those with genetic male pattern baldness, anyone serious about stopping progression.

PRP: The Regenerative Approach

What it is:

PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) involves drawing your blood, concentrating the platelets, and injecting them into the scalp. Treatments are typically done in series (3-4 sessions) then maintained periodically.

How it works:

Platelets contain growth factors (PDGF, VEGF, TGF-β) that:

• Stimulate dormant follicles

• Promote blood vessel formation

• Trigger cellular regeneration

• Extend the growth phase

Important: PRP regenerates existing follicles but doesn't fully block DHT.

Effectiveness:

• 94% improvement rate in suitable candidates

• Average density increase of 33 hairs/cm²

• Best results in early to moderate hair loss

• Diminishing returns in advanced baldness

Advantages:

✓ Uses your own biological material ✓ No systemic medication ✓ No prescription drug side effects ✓ Suitable for men and women ✓ Regenerates, not just maintains ✓ Complements other treatments

Disadvantages:

✗ Requires in-clinic sessions ✗ Higher upfront cost ✗ Doesn't fully address DHT ✗ Less effective for advanced loss ✗ Needs maintenance

Best for: Those wanting natural/regenerative approach, patients who can't tolerate medications, early-stage hair loss, combination with medical therapy.

Learn more about PRP at The Wellness

Head-to-Head Comparison by Concern

If Your Priority is Effectiveness:

1. Finasteride (90% stop progression, 65-70% regrow)

2. PRP (94% improvement in suitable candidates)

3. Minoxidil (60% stop progression, 40% regrow)

If Your Priority is Avoiding Prescription Drugs:

1. Minoxidil (over the counter)

2. PRP (procedure, no drugs)

3. Finasteride (prescription required)

If Your Priority is Addressing the Cause:

1. Finasteride (blocks DHT production)

2. PRP (regenerates damaged follicles)

3. Minoxidil (doesn't address cause)

If You're a Woman:

1. PRP (safe and effective)

2. Minoxidil 2% (approved for women)

3. Finasteride (not for women of childbearing age)

If Your Budget is Limited:

1. Finasteride generic (~£10-30/month)

2. Minoxidil generic (~£15-30/month)

3. PRP (~£100-150/month amortised)

If You Want Fastest Results:

1. Minoxidil (4-6 months)

2. PRP (3-6 months)

3. Finasteride (6-12 months)

The Combination Approach: Best Results

Research consistently shows combination therapy outperforms any single treatment:

Finasteride + Minoxidil:

• More effective than either alone

• Finasteride blocks DHT while minoxidil stimulates growth

• Standard combination for male pattern baldness

Finasteride + PRP:

• Finasteride stops the cause

• PRP regenerates damaged follicles

• Addresses both protection and restoration

Triple Therapy (Finasteride + Minoxidil + PRP):

• Comprehensive approach

• Each treatment works through different mechanism

• Best results for those wanting maximum outcomes

At The Wellness, our typical recommendation:

1. Start finasteride (if suitable) to stop progression

2. Add PRP for regeneration

3. Consider minoxidil for additional boost

4. Monitor and adjust based on response

Making Your Decision

Choose Minoxidil if:

• You want to avoid prescription medication

• You're a woman with hair loss

• You want to try something before seeing a doctor

• You're adding to finasteride for enhanced results

Choose Finasteride if:

• You want the most effective single treatment

• You're a man with male pattern baldness

• You're serious about stopping progression

• You're comfortable with prescription medication

Choose PRP if:

• You prefer a natural/regenerative approach

• You want to avoid daily medications

• You have early to moderate hair loss

• You want to complement medical therapy

Consider All Three if:

• You want maximum results

• You're committed to comprehensive treatment

• Budget allows

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use minoxidil and finasteride together?

Yes. They work through different mechanisms and are commonly combined for enhanced results.

Can I use PRP with medications?

Yes. PRP complements finasteride and minoxidil well. We often recommend this combination.

Will I need treatment forever?

Hair loss is a chronic condition. Stopping treatment typically means progression resumes within 6-12 months. However, maintenance requirements vary by individual.

Which works faster?

Minoxidil and PRP show results sooner (3-6 months). Finasteride takes longer (6-12 months) but provides superior long-term results.

Are there alternatives if finasteride causes side effects?

Yes. Topical finasteride may reduce systemic effects. Lower doses can be tried. Dutasteride is an alternative. PRP and minoxidil don't have the same side effect profile.

What if nothing works?

For advanced hair loss not responding to medical treatment, hair transplant surgery is an option. Even then, medical therapy is usually continued to protect native hair.

Get Personalised Guidance

The best treatment for you depends on your specific situation. At The Wellness, we assess your hair loss pattern, stage, preferences, and goals to recommend the optimal approach.

Find your best treatment path. Book a consultation via WhatsApp

Medically reviewed February 2026

Last updated: February 2026