Hair loss is a condition that is caused by the activity of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on the hair follicles. DHT is generated from testosterone by the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme. DHT activates a receptor that inhibits the hair growth phase, causing the follicles to shrink into finer and shorter hairs. Over time, it gets so serious to the point that hairs do not exit the scalp anymore. Finasteride inhibits the production of DHT that causes hair loss. A vast array of over-the-counter hair loss treatments in the market promise immediate and effective results. However, this is far from the truth. Also, the use of steroid injections, hairpieces, and surgery is expensive; besides, they do not guarantee the desired result. This brings us to the use of finasteride.
Treatments That Are Expensive Or Ineffective
Most men lookout for various ways they can prevent hair loss. However, most of the treatments in the market do not provide the right results or are expensive to purchase. The following contains a list of these hair treatment products:
Hair Oils – There are so many hair oils that have been touted to be highly effective for hair growth; they include argan oil, Moroccan oil, essential oils, and coconut oil. These oils have little medical backing on their efficacies. Most of them only leave your hair smooth and greasy.
- Laser Combs – This type of treatment involves the combination of a comb and a low-level laser light. As you comb your hair, the laser light is targeted at the hair follicles, theoretically enhancing hair growth.
- Surgery – Some common forms of hair loss surgery include scalp reduction, hair transplants, and artificial hair implant. Although they are effective to some extent, they are usually expensive and painful.
- Corticosteroids – Hair loss caused by inflammation can be reduced by corticosteroid injections. Hair loss types like alopecia areata can be treated sometimes with this option. However, the process needs to be repeated frequently. Once the treatment is stopped, hair loss is likely to resume.
- Topical Corticosteroids – Another popular form of treatment is the use of steroid creams and ointments. However, their long term effects are unknown.
Only two treatments have been tested and verified as being effective and approved by FDA for male pattern baldness – minoxidil and Numan – finasteride tablets 5mg. The former is accessible and used as a foam or serum substance and is used as a supplement for the latter. On the other hand, finasteride is taken to block the activity of DHT. It is also grouped in a category of drugs known as 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors. It inhibits the conversion of testosterone into DHT – a hormone that creates hair loss. Finasteride is available in tablet form and is formulated for long-term usage. Results are visible after some months of use. Not only does it promote hair growth, but it also improves hair quality. As long as you keep using it, you will see tangible results. On the contrary, if you stop using finasteride, the hair you have grown will fall out in no time.
