What Causes Hair Loss?
Male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia) is the most common form of hair loss in men, affecting roughly 50 million men in the U.S. alone. It's driven by a genetic sensitivity to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a potent androgen derived from testosterone.
DHT binds to receptors in genetically susceptible hair follicles — primarily at the temples, crown, and mid-scalp — causing them to miniaturize over time. Each hair cycle produces a thinner, shorter, less pigmented hair until the follicle eventually stops producing visible hair altogether. The good news: catching it early dramatically improves outcomes, and modern treatments can slow, stop, and even reverse the process.
Recognizing the Signs
If any of these apply, early treatment produces the best results.
The Earlier You Start, the More You Keep
Hair loss treatment is most effective when started before significant follicle miniaturization. A quick online assessment takes just a few minutes.
Learn MoreTreatment Options
Your clinician will recommend the best approach based on your hair loss pattern, goals, and medical history:
| Medication | How It Works | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Finasteride (Oral) | Blocks DHT production by ~70%, slowing follicle miniaturization | First-line treatment; crown and mid-scalp thinning |
| Minoxidil (Topical) | Increases scalp blood flow and extends the hair growth phase | Stimulating regrowth; works well combined with Finasteride |
| Custom Compound | Combination formulas (e.g., Finasteride + Minoxidil + Biotin) | Aggressive or multi-pattern hair loss |
How Hair Loss Treatments Work
The two primary approaches target hair loss through complementary mechanisms:
- Finasteride works systemically by blocking the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone into DHT. Reducing scalp DHT by ~70% halts follicle miniaturization and allows weakened follicles to recover, producing thicker, healthier hair.
- Minoxidil works topically as a vasodilator — widening blood vessels in the scalp to increase nutrient and oxygen delivery to follicles. It also extends the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle, so hairs grow longer and thicker before entering the resting phase.
- Used together, Finasteride and Minoxidil address hair loss from two different angles — DHT reduction + follicular stimulation — producing superior results compared to either alone.
100% Discreet. Clinician-Prescribed.
Plain packaging. No pharmacy visits. Licensed clinicians evaluate your hair loss pattern and prescribe the right treatment for your needs.
Learn MoreHow It Works — 3 Simple Steps
Online Assessment
Answer a few questions about your hair loss pattern, medical history, and goals. Upload photos of your hairline and crown for clinical review.
Clinician Review & Prescription
A licensed clinician evaluates your assessment within 24 hours and prescribes the most effective treatment plan for your pattern.
Discreet Delivery
Your medication ships free in plain, unmarked packaging. No pharmacy lines, no awkward conversations — just results delivered to your door.
Side Effects & Safety
Finasteride and Minoxidil are well-studied and generally well-tolerated:
- Finasteride: ~2–4% of men report decreased libido or mild sexual side effects, which are typically reversible upon discontinuation. Breast tenderness is rare.
- Minoxidil: May cause initial increased shedding (a positive sign of new growth cycle activation), scalp irritation, or unwanted facial hair growth if applied imprecisely.
Important: Finasteride is not appropriate for women who are or may become pregnant (risk of birth defects). Your clinician will review your complete medical history before prescribing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes male pattern hair loss?
Male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia) is caused by a genetic sensitivity to DHT (dihydrotestosterone), a hormone derived from testosterone. DHT miniaturizes hair follicles over time, causing progressively thinner, shorter hairs until the follicle stops producing visible hair entirely.
How does Finasteride work?
Finasteride blocks the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone into DHT. By reducing DHT levels by approximately 70%, Finasteride slows hair loss and, in many men, promotes regrowth of thinning hair — particularly at the crown and mid-scalp.
When will I see results?
Most men notice reduced shedding within 3 months. Visible regrowth and thickening typically appear between 6–12 months of consistent use. Hair loss treatment requires ongoing use to maintain results.
Are there side effects?
Side effects are uncommon. Approximately 2–4% of men report decreased libido or mild sexual side effects, which are typically reversible upon discontinuation. Your clinician will discuss your individual risk profile.
Can I use Finasteride and Minoxidil together?
Yes. Finasteride and Minoxidil work through different mechanisms and are often used together for maximum results. Finasteride reduces DHT systemically while Minoxidil stimulates follicular blood flow topically.
Will my order be discreet?
Absolutely. All medications ship in plain, unmarked packaging with no indication of the contents.
Take Control of Your Hair
Clinician-prescribed treatment. Free discreet shipping. The earlier you start, the more you keep.
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