Hair & Skin
Prescription therapies for hair thinning and dermatologic concerns.
$79/ month$199 to start, labs and evaluation included
Conditions and concerns
What a provider may prescribe
Weighing the options
Markers reviewed in this area
Every marker below has a reference page explaining what it measures and why it is tracked.
Questions people ask
Finasteride or minoxidil for hair loss?
They work differently and are often used together. Finasteride reduces conversion of testosterone to DHT, addressing the hormonal driver of pattern hair loss. Minoxidil is a vasodilator applied topically or, off-label, taken at low oral doses. Finasteride carries considerations around fertility and mood; oral minoxidil requires blood-pressure monitoring. Benefit from either is maintained only while treatment continues.
How long before hair-loss treatment shows any change?
Hair grows slowly and cycles over months, so assessment of response is measured in months rather than weeks. Providers generally review at defined intervals rather than expecting early change. An initial increase in shedding after starting minoxidil is a recognised phase and is not a sign the treatment has failed. Photographic tracking at consistent intervals is more reliable than impression.
How does finasteride work?
Finasteride inhibits 5-alpha reductase, the enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone. DHT is implicated in androgenetic hair loss. It is available as an FDA-approved oral product for male pattern hair loss, and is also prescribed topically in compounded form. It is not prescribed to women who are or may become pregnant.
What side effects are associated with finasteride?
Sexual side effects including reduced libido and erectile difficulty are described in the prescribing information, and reports of persistent symptoms after discontinuation exist in the literature and are the subject of ongoing discussion. Mood changes have also been reported. Discuss the full risk profile with your provider before starting, and report any change while taking it.
What is the difference between oral and topical minoxidil?
Topical minoxidil is available over the counter as an FDA-approved product. Low-dose oral minoxidil is prescribed off-label for hair loss; it is an antihypertensive by original approval, and because it acts systemically it requires screening for cardiovascular considerations and can cause hair growth in unwanted areas. Which is appropriate is a provider decision.
How long before hair treatment shows any change?
Hair grows slowly and the follicular cycle means change is assessed over months, not weeks. Providers generally advise photographing at consistent intervals under consistent lighting and reviewing at defined checkpoints. Treatment for androgenetic hair loss is ongoing — the underlying process resumes if treatment stops.