Hair loss medications like Finasteride and Minoxidil are two of the most commonly prescribed treatments for genetic hair loss in both men and women. During hair loss consultations with facial plastic surgeon and hair restoration expert Dr. Demetri in Tampa, patients always ask if oral medications and topical treatments for hair loss actually offer permanent hair regrowth—or are the results only temporary?
If you’re located in the Tampa area and are wondering if non-surgical hair loss methods will work for you, contact us for a personalized consultation with Dr. Demetri—in the meantime, explore the following series of frequently asked questions and answers for valuable insights into hair loss medications.
What Do Hair Loss Medications Actually Do?
Most prescription hair loss medications work by either:
- Blocking DHT, the hormone linked to hair thinning (as Finasteride does)
- Increasing blood flow to hair follicles, stimulating new growth (as Minoxidil does)
Both approaches can slow or reverse hair thinning, but the effects depend on your specific type of hair loss, how early you start treatment, and whether you continue using the medication over time.
Are the Results of Hair Loss Medication Permanent?
This is the big question—and the answer is not a straightforward yes or no, because of individual factors. For example, hair loss resulting from an underlying medical condition or illness that has been resolved may not require long-term or ongoing treatment after a point.
However, when treating hair loss resulting from genetics, aging, hormones or lifestyle habits or a combination thereof, topical, and/or oral hair loss medications like minoxidil and finasteride are often a long-term solution, not a one-time fix.
How Long Does It Take to See Results?
- Finasteride: Most patients begin seeing improvement in 3 to 6 months, with full results at 12 months.
- Minoxidil: Some patients notice regrowth within 3–4 months, but sustained improvement can take up to a year.
These timelines vary based on your age, genetics, overall health, and adherence to the treatment plan.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Hair Loss Medication?
You may benefit from hair loss medications if:
- You’re experiencing early signs of androgenetic alopecia (genetic hair loss)
- You want a non-surgical option before considering transplants
- You’re willing to commit to ongoing use
- You prefer personalized formulations (like topical finasteride + retinoic acid) with fewer side effects
What Happens If I Stop Using Minoxidil or Finasteride? Medication?
Once you stop using Minoxidil or Finasteride, the progress you’ve made will likely reverse. This is because the underlying causes of hair loss—like genetics or hormone changes—are still present.
That’s why they’re considered long-term hair loss treatments, not permanent cures.
Are There Side Effects With Hair Loss Medications?
Side effects are generally mild but can include:
- For oral Finasteride: Reduced libido or sexual function in some men
- For topical formulations: Less risk of systemic side effects
Dr. Demetri often prescribes custom-compounded topical solutions designed to maximize benefits while minimizing side effects.
Are Hair Loss Medications in Tampa Effective for Women?
Yes—medications can be very effective for hair restoration in women. At Dr. Demetri’s clinic, treatment plans for women are highly personalized, often involving custom topical blends that address hormonal and scalp health factors without unwanted side effects.
While Finasteride is typically prescribed more cautiously for women (due to its effects on hormone levels), Minoxidil is FDA-approved for female pattern hair loss and is commonly used in both its topical and compounded forms.
Which Is Better: Minoxidil or Finasteride?
- Minoxidil increases blood flow to the scalp and can help revive dormant follicles. It’s a good choice for both men and women and is especially effective when hair is thinning but not completely lost.
- Finasteride is generally more effective for male pattern baldness, especially in the crown and mid-scalp regions, as it targets DHT—a hormone closely linked to hair loss in men.
Both medications are often part of a long-term hair loss treatment plan. The “better” option depends on your diagnosis, goals, and how your body responds.
Between Topical and Oral Hair Loss Medications, Which Is More Effective?
Both can be effective—but they work a bit differently, and the best option often depends on your tolerance and risk factors.
- Oral medications, like Finasteride tablets, deliver systemic effects that lower DHT levels throughout the body. They’re generally more potent but may come with side effects in some men.
- Topical hair loss treatments are applied directly to the scalp and offer a targeted approach with fewer systemic effects. When compounded (e.g., topical Finasteride with Retinoic Acid), they can deliver strong results with a lower risk profile.
In some cases, your provider may recommend starting with one and adjusting based on your response.
What Types of Hair Loss Are Not Treatable with Minoxidil or Finasteride?
While medical treatments for hair loss like Finasteride and Minoxidil are effective for many types of hair thinning—especially androgenetic alopecia—they aren’t suitable for every condition.
Hair loss medications are typically not effective for:
- Alopecia Areata: An autoimmune disorder that causes patchy hair loss. It requires immunotherapy or other targeted treatments.
- Cicatricial (Scarring) Alopecia: This involves permanent damage to hair follicles due to inflammation or trauma. Medications can’t revive destroyed follicles.
- Traction Alopecia: Caused by chronic tension from hairstyles (tight braids, ponytails, etc.). If caught early, some regrowth is possible, but advanced cases may need surgical intervention.
- Hair loss from underlying medical conditions (like lupus or anemia) unless the root cause is addressed first.
That’s why an accurate diagnosis is essential. During a consultation with Dr. Demetri, he’ll assess the type and stage of your hair loss and determine whether medication is a viable solution—or if another approach may be better.
Early Treatment is Key With Hair Loss Medications: Contact Dr. Demetri for a Consultation
To learn more about hair loss and the customized medication-based solutions available at our clinic please request an appointment. Early intervention is essential for optimal success, for a hair restoration plan customized to your needs—contact Dr. Demetri’s clinic in Tampa today to schedule a consultation for hair loss medication.
