From FDA-approved minoxidil and finasteride to low-level laser therapy helmets, we reseña the science behind every major hair loss treatment and rank what actually regrows hair.
| Treatment | Mechanism | Effectiveness | Who It's For | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oral FinasterideMost Effective | 5-alpha reductase inhibitor (blocks DHT) | 83% stabilization, 66% regrowth | Men only (teratogenic in women) | $15–30 |
| Topical Minoxidil 5% | Vasodilator — extends anagen phase | 60% improvement at 48 weeks | Men & Women (2% for women) | $10–20 |
| Oral Minoxidil (low-dose) | Systemic vasodilation — more effective delivery | Superior to topical in studies | Men & Women (prescription) | $20–40 |
| LLLT Devices (iRestore, HairMax) | Photobiomodulation — stimulates follicles | 35% increase in hair count | Men & Women (early loss) | Upfront $400–$800 |
| Ketoconazole Shampoo | Anti-fungal with anti-androgenic effect | Adjunct only — not standalone | Men & Women (supports other tx) | $10–15 |
Combining finasteride (which blocks the DHT causing follicle miniaturization) with topical minoxidil (which extends the hair growth cycle) creates a dual-action protocol that outperforms either treatment alone. Hims makes this combination accessible with online prescriptions, discreet shipping, and ongoing dermatologist support. The clinical data is clear: combination therapy is the most effective non-surgical option for androgenetic alopecia.
Minoxidil 2% is the only FDA-approved topical treatment for female pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia in women). Hers pairs the prescription solution with licensed dermatologist access via their platform, making it the most complete women's hair loss service available. Clinical studies show 60% of women using minoxidil experience moderate-to-dense hair regrowth after 32 weeks of daily use.
Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) uses 650nm red light to stimulate mitochondrial activity in hair follicle cells, improving cellular energy production and extending the anagen growth phase. The iRestore's clinical study showed a 43.23% increase in hair count after 16 weeks of 25-minute sessions every other day. It's FDA-cleared for both men and women, drug-free, and the preferred option for people who can't or don't want to use finasteride.
A direct clinical comparison of the two most evidence-backed hair loss treatments — and why combining them beats either alone.
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