Oral vs Topical Hair Loss Treatment Explained

Hair loss is a common issue for millions of individuals around the world. It affects people's confidence, appearance, and emotional well-being. As we move into the future with so many contemporary scientific advancements, the most common question encountered by patients is: should I go for an oral or topical hair-loss treatment? 

Both the oral and topical hair-loss treatment options seek to reduce shedding and stimulate hair growth, however they both act and are absorbed in different ways. It is important to understand what both the options are, their pros and cons and which option is best suitable for you. 

Let’s talk about the main differences between oral and topical treatment options, and why it is important to get expert guidance from clinics like QHT Clinic.

Understanding Hair Loss and Its Causes

If you're experiencing hair loss, the first step in the hair restoration process is identify what caused it in the first place- such as genetics, hormones, nutritional deficits or stress. Topical treatments, such as Minoxidil, are best used in mild or early hair loss cases with visual improvements in over 3 to 6 months, while oral medications, such as Finasteride or oral Minoxidil work better for hormonal or more advanced hair loss with results visible in over 4 to 8 months. Minoxidil works for both men and women, but Finasteride is typically used for men only. While oral Minoxidil is also effective, it must always be taken under medical supervision due to side effects. Generally, mild types of hair loss typically respond to topical treatments, while advanced or hormonal types of hair loss may respond better to a combination of oral and topical treatments. Medical supervision is important to avoid complications. 

It’s important to know why hair loss occurs before considering treatment.  Hair thinning or baldness (alopecia) may result from a variety of issues, including:

• Genetics (Androgenetic Alopecia): A condition experienced by both men and women, primarily due to the hormone DHT (Dihydrotestosterone), which diminishes the size of hair follicles over time resulting in thinning hair and balding.

• Hormonal Changes: Changes related to pregnancy, menopause, thyroid dysfunction, or PCOS can interrupt the hair growth cycle leading to excessive hair shedding or slow hair regrowth.

• Nutritional Deficiencies: Hair structure can be compromised by a low intake of macro- and micronutrients such as iron, zinc, vitamin D, or protein, leading to weak and broken hair. A nutritious diet can support regrowth.

• Stress and Lifestyle Factors: Long-term chronic stress, lack of sleep, smoking, and poor lifestyle habits can all inhibit hair growth blocking the normal cycle. Consider addressing stress and lifestyle factors in support of scalp health.

• Medical Conditions or Medications: Hair loss can also be associated with autoimmune disease or medications (such as blood pressure medications, or antidepressants), which can also cause temporary or permanent hair loss.

What Are Topical Hair Loss Treatments?

Topical hair loss treatments are applied to the scalp to target thinning or areas of baldness from the outside. They are often the first step for people with mild to moderate hair loss. These treatments stimulate the hair follicles, and promote blood flow to the scalp, to facilitate hair growth.

Minoxidil (Rogaine) is the most commonly used topical solution for hair loss that is FDA approved. It is available in 2%, 5%, and 10% concentrations in a liquid, foam, or spray form. It appears to increase blood flow by dilating blood vessels, which allows for greater delivery of nutrients to the hair follicles and even wakes up sleeping follicles. When used daily, Minoxidil can facilitate hair growth resulting in thicker, healthier hair in the long run.

Topical Finasteride, a newer treatment, is an effective option that minimizes systemic side effects at the same time. Topical Finasteride prevents the action of DHT (dihydrotestosterone) hormone and slows down the miniaturization of the hair follicles and promotes regrowth, especially in cases of androgenetic alopecia.

Several clinics and dermatologists also offer treatments in combination with Minoxidil, Finasteride, and Biotin, that are specifically proven to improve results and lead to denser hair growth. 

Natural scalp serums containing ingredients like caffeine, rosemary oil, or peptides are also gaining popularity as alternatives to a topical approach. In general, natural scalp serums will enhance blood circulation to the scalp and build follicle strength. Therefore, they are suitable for patients seeking a topical option that is gentle but effective.

What Are Oral Hair Loss Treatments?

Oral hair loss medications are systemic agents that address hormonal, dietary, or genetic causes of hair loss from within the body. As opposed to topical formulations, oral treatments circulate  throughout the bloodstream to address the underlying issues of hair loss and promote long-term health. 

Finasteride is one of the most widely prescribed oral medications for male pattern baldness. It works by blocking the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase that converts testosterone into DHT, the hormone that reduces the size of hair follicles. Finasteride lowers DHT levels and slows down hair loss at the crown and hairline, and with time new hair growth may be observed.

Oral minoxidil has also gained popularity recently, as it is found as an effective alternative for  topical treatments. Oral minoxidil improves not only blood flow to the hair follicles, but also strengthens existing hair strands, leading to observable gains in hair density and texture. 

Finally, nutritional supplements like biotin, zinc, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids are also effective in promoting scalp health and hair regrowth. In case of deficiencies, intake of vitamins, minerals and supplements play an important role in developing healthy hair that is strong and resilient.

Oral vs Topical Hair Loss Treatment

Both oral and topical medications help in restoration of hair but they both differ in their approaches and procedure.  Some of the key differences include the following:

Topical vs Oral Hair Loss Treatment: Which Is Better For You?

Selecting between oral or topical solutions for treating hair loss is highly dependent on knowing the root cause of hair loss, lifestyle and personal goals of the patient. Both treatment solutions are effective but they work in different manners.

Topicals like Minoxidil or topical Finasteride actually work on the scalp directly to stimulate hair follicles and improve blood flow. Topical treatments are great for mild to moderate hair loss and have minimal and manageable side effects. However, being consistent with the treatment is exceptionally crucial. 

Oral treatments like Finasteride and Minoxidil function differently as they are to be consumed orally and they work from within to balance hormones and strengthen hair follicles. Oral treatments are a great choice when experiencing advanced or extensive hair loss but may have a slightly higher risk of side effects.

It is often recommended by physicians to adopt a combined approach- both oral and topical solutions to tackle hair loss. QHT Clinic, provides a customised treatment plan for each individual taking into consideration their hair loss pattern in order to achieve natural looking results. 

Combination Approach: The Most Effective Strategy

In the past few years, researchers have concluded that the best way to address hair loss is with a combined approach, utilizing both oral and topical treatment solutions. Rather than undergoing a single treatment option, combination of both methods will address hair loss internally and externally, which allows the patient to achieve faster results that are more sustainable over time. 

For instance, oral Finasteride minimizes DHT - the leading hormone that reduces hair follicle size - while Topical Minoxidil stimulates hair follicles and increases blood flow to the vascular supply of the scalp. Together, both are able to provide greater improvement to density and thickness than either treatment alone. 

Combining these treatment methods not only accelerates regrowth overall, but it also balances control of hormonal factors, provide greater density and results in lower likelihood of relapse when treatment is stabilized. 

At QHT Clinic, our specialists have long combined these medical treatments with a technique called PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy, to increase strength, enhance survival, and improve overall results. 

Choosing the Right Option for You

Before choosing between oral and topical treatment options, it is important for you to consider the following factors:

• Type of Hair Loss: Is it localized thinning or generalized shedding?

• Tolerance and Health Factors: Do you have intolerance to certain medications or any major cardiovascular health problems?

• Consistency: Would you be able to apply topical solutions daily or take oral medications without skipping?

• Purpose: Is it for maintenance, or is it for complete regrowth that you are looking for?

At QHT Clinic, we start every treatment plan with an analysis of the scalp and proper consultation to determine which solution (oral, topical, or a combination of both) are best for you to achieve sustainable, and natural results.

Conclusion

Both oral and topical hair loss treatments can lead to effective results- however which is best for you depends on your situation and your long term goals and expectations with treatment. Self-treatment should be avoided as it can result in irregular results and unwanted side effects. This is why it is best to have an evaluation with a qualified expert, before choosing the treatment option. 

QHT Clinic specialists provide expert evaluation and offer individualized science-based treatment approaches involving oral and topical options, PRP, and if required minimally invasive hair restoration interventions, which will provide solid results. 

Whether you are experiencing the early stages of hair thinning or looking for a full transformation, under supervision you can achieve long lasting results. Book your consultation at QHT Clinic today- and begin your journey to fuller, healthier hair with confidence.