Hair loss, particularly androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss), continues to be one of the most common conditions affecting both men and women. For years, the mainstay of treatment has been topical minoxidil and oral finasteride, both of which are well established in clinical practice. Minoxidil acts as a vasodilator, improving blood flow and stimulating follicles to enter the growth phase, while finasteride reduces levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the hormone responsible for follicular shrinkage. However, many patients fail to achieve their desired results with either medication alone. This has led to a growing interest in combination therapies that not only enhance results but also lower the risks of side effects.
Recent research has highlighted the benefits of combining topical minoxidil with topical finasteride, with some studies suggesting significantly better outcomes than monotherapy. For example, a 2025 randomized controlled trial showed that a 0.1% topical finasteride combined with 5% minoxidil produced greater hair density improvements compared to minoxidil alone, with excellent patient tolerance (Legiawati et al., 2025). Adding tretinoin (retinoic acid) to this mix provides another layer of benefit. Tretinoin has been shown to increase minoxidil absorption through the scalp by altering the skin barrier and enhancing drug penetration. Furthermore, tretinoin independently stimulates hair follicle regeneration by activating important growth pathways such as Wnt/β-catenin signalling (Wen et al., 2025).
The combined action of these three agents has created what many dermatologists are now calling a “triple therapy” approach. This regimen maximises follicular stimulation, reduces scalp DHT levels, and improves drug delivery – all while minimising systemic side effects compared to oral-only regimens. Patients who previously did not respond to minoxidil alone often see significant results when tretinoin is added, and when finasteride is incorporated, the overall treatment response appears even stronger. Emerging delivery methods, such as nanocarriers and hydrogels, are also improving efficacy by ensuring deeper follicular penetration while reducing irritation.
At Rejuvence Clinic, we have witnessed these benefits first-hand. Our team specialises in advanced hair restoration treatments, particularly platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy using the Magellan TruPRP and Angel Arthrex systems, as well as our new and exciting autologous exosome kit. Before commencing any PRP or exosome treatment, all patients undergo a comprehensive consultation with our in-house hair specialist, Dr Ghani. During this consultation, we carefully review all possible causes of hair loss and create a personalised, long-term treatment strategy tailored to each individual’s needs.
A key part of this consultation always involves a detailed discussion around the role of minoxidil and finasteride, in both oral and topical formats. As Dr Ghani emphasises, it is crucial to explore not only what treatments patients are willing to try but also what they are not comfortable with. From our clinical experience, there is no doubt that combining minoxidil and finasteride – whether topical, oral, or both – augments the effects of PRP significantly. The cumulative benefit of a multi-pronged approach far exceeds the outcomes seen with any single treatment alone.
We are proud to offer patients access to both minoxidil and finasteride in a variety of different formulations, thanks to our partnerships with trusted pharmacies. This includes the option of subscription packages with significant discounts, ensuring treatments remain sustainable in the long term.
Ultimately, hair loss is a complex condition influenced by a multitude of factors. Successful treatment almost always requires a combination approach, incorporating medical therapy, regenerative techniques like PRP and exosomes, and supportive lifestyle strategies. At Rejuvence, we strongly believe in providing our patients with the widest range of effective options, enabling them to pursue the best possible outcome for their individual journey.
If you are seeking advanced hair loss treatment and a comprehensive long-term plan tailored to your specific needs, we invite you to book a consultation with Rejuvence Clinic. Let us work together to restore your confidence and develop a strategy that delivers lasting results.
📚 Key References
Legiawati, L., Saldi, S.R.F., Saulina, M. (2025). Randomized controlled trial on the efficacy and safety of the combination therapy of topical 0.1% finasteride−5% Minoxidil in male androgenetic alopecia. Archives of Dermatological Research.
Wen, L., Fan, Z., Huang, W. (2025). Retinoic acid drives hair follicle stem cell activation via Wnt/β‐catenin signalling in androgenetic alopecia. JEADV.
Leonik, S., Smoczok, M., Bergler-Czop, B. (2024). New trends in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia. Dermatology Review.
Eskandar, K. (2024). Frontiers in Dermatological Innovation: Emerging Therapies. Dermatology Review.
Shokravi, A., Zargham, H. (2024). Facial hair enhancement with minoxidil—an off-label use. SAGE Open Medical Case Reports.
Gupta, A.K., Talukder, M. (2025). Topical Ketoconazole in Hair Care Beyond Seborrheic Dermatitis. JEADV Clinical Practice.