What is finasteride?
Finasteride is an oral prescription medication that blocks the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone linked to hair follicle miniaturization in male pattern baldness.
It is FDA-approved for treating androgenetic alopecia in men and can slow or even reverse hair loss in some individuals by reducing scalp DHT levels. Side effects are possible and should be reviewed with a physician.
Red light therapy is often used alongside finasteride to provide a synergistic effect — reducing DHT’s damage while enhancing follicular regeneration and cellular energy metabolism.
Related terms
Estrogen
Clinical Applications
Estrogen is a hormone that plays a critical role in regulating hair growth in women, particularly by prolonging the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle.
Minoxidil
Clinical Applications
Minoxidil is a topical medication that promotes hair regrowth by prolonging the growth phase.
Trichology
Clinical Applications
Trichology is the branch of dermatology that focuses on the scientific study of hair and scalp health.
Microneedling
Clinical Applications
Microneedling is a technique that creates micro-injuries in the skin to stimulate healing.
