Male Pattern Hair Loss (MPHL)
- Male pattern baldness is progressive and it does not improve or reverse without treament.
- Minoxidil and Finasteride are commonly prescribed medications which may restore the hair to some extent.
- 5% minoxidil liquid or foam applied to the scalp may slow down the progression of hair loss and partially restore hair.
- It is applied to the affected scalp (not the hair) using a dropper or pump spray device and should be spread over the affected area lightly.
- Minoxidil can cause reactions such as dryness, redness, scaling and/or itchiness at the site of application and should not be applied if there are cuts or open wounds.
- At least 6 months of application is required to notice any benefit.
- Minoxidil solution may cause an initial hair fall in the first 2-8 weeks of treatment, and this usually subsides when the new hairs start to grow.
- Finasteride tablets reduce levels of DHT (hormone), which may slow hair loss and possibly help regrowth of hair.
- Continuous use for 3 to 6 months is required before a benefit is usually seen.
