Losing your hair can feel like a personal thing. But you’re not alone. Male pattern hair loss is very common, and there are two treatments in the UK with the strongest track record: minoxidil and finasteride.
Here’s the key finding: when used together, they work better than either one alone. This guide breaks down what the latest research shows, how each treatment works, and why combination therapy is the gold standard.
Table of contents
- Five key takeaways
- What the research actually shows
- Head-to-head comparison: combination vs minoxidil alone
- Why combination therapy ranks highest
- How minoxidil works
- How finasteride works
- Why combination therapy works better
- How long does it take to see results?
- Compounding: combining minoxidil and finasteride into one topical solution
- Why a regulated UK pharmacy matters
- Summary
- FAQs
- References
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Finasteride 1mg tabletsPrice range: £13.99 through £52.45 -
Loniten 2.5mg tablets (Minoxidil 2.5mg tablets)Price range: £39.99 through £99.99
Five key takeaways
- Combination therapy beats minoxidil alone: Studies show finasteride + minoxidil together produces significantly better results than minoxidil on its own (86.7% vs 69.1% efficacy).
- The science is clear: A 2025 meta-analysis of seven trials confirmed that combination therapy improves hair density, thickness, and overall appearance more than minoxidil alone.
- They work in different ways: Finasteride reduces the hormone driving hair loss, while minoxidil stimulates follicles at the scalp—two angles, one goal.
- Consistency matters: Most people see early changes in 3–6 months, with bigger results after 6–12 months of daily use.
- Use a regulated UK pharmacy: It ensures genuine medication, proper clinical checks, and access to personalised options like compounded combinations.
What the research actually shows
Combination therapy is the gold standard
A 2025 systematic review and meta-analysis looked at seven high-quality randomised controlled trials. The verdict? Finasteride + minoxidil combination therapy is significantly more effective than minoxidil alone for male pattern hair loss [1].
The numbers tell the story:
- Hair density improved more with combination therapy (9.22 more hairs per unit area)
- Hair diameter increased more (2.26 micrometres thicker)
- Overall appearance improved more (measured by photographic assessment)
All of these improvements were clinically meaningful—meaning they’re noticeable, not just statistically significant.
Head-to-head comparison: combination vs minoxidil alone
2024 head-to-head trial:
A 2024 clinical trial directly compared two groups of men with male pattern baldness:
- Group 1: Minoxidil 5% + finasteride 0.25% (combination)
- Group 2: Minoxidil 5% alone
The results were clear:
- Combination therapy: 86.7% efficacy
- Minoxidil alone: 69.1% efficacy
- Difference: Statistically significant (P=0.006) [2]
That’s a 17.6 percentage point difference—substantial enough that it matters in real life.
The 24-week study: seeing results over time
Another trial tracked 60 men across three groups over 24 weeks:
- Minoxidil + finasteride combination
- Minoxidil alone
- Finasteride alone
By week 12, all groups showed improvement. But by week 24, the combination group pulled ahead, showing the best results for both total hair density and terminal hair density (the thicker, more visible hairs) [3].
This tells us that combination therapy doesn’t just work faster—it works better when given time.
Why combination therapy ranks highest
A 2024 network meta-analysis examined all the major minoxidil-based combination treatments. The finding: finasteride + minoxidil was identified as the most effective combination for men among all options studied [4].
How minoxidil works
Think of minoxidil as a “wake-up call” for tired hair follicles.
It’s a topical treatment (solution or foam) applied to the scalp. It doesn’t block hormones. Instead, it improves blood flow to the scalp and helps follicles stay in their growth phase longer [5]. This can help more hairs grow thicker and stronger.
What strength should you use?
In the UK, minoxidil is usually sold as 2% or 5%.
- 5% is commonly recommended for men because studies show it works better.
- 2% is sometimes used if the scalp is sensitive, or for some women (with clinical advice).
How to apply minoxidil (simple steps)
- Start with a dry scalp
- Part your hair so you can reach the skin, not just the hair
- Apply the recommended dose to the thinning areas
- Gently spread it with fingertips
- Wash your hands
- Let it dry before hats, styling products, or bed
If your scalp gets irritated, it may be due to the base ingredients in some products rather than minoxidil itself. A pharmacist can help you troubleshoot.
How finasteride works
Finasteride is a prescription medicine that works from the inside.
Male pattern hair loss is strongly linked to a hormone called DHT (dihydrotestosterone). In men who are genetically sensitive to DHT, hair follicles gradually shrink over time. Hair becomes thinner, shorter, and eventually stops growing.
Finasteride lowers DHT by blocking an enzyme (5-alpha reductase) that converts testosterone into DHT. Lower DHT levels usually mean less follicle shrinkage.
Does finasteride regrow hair?
For many men, finasteride helps slow hair loss and can help maintain existing hair. Some men also see regrowth, especially at the crown. But the real power comes when you combine it with minoxidil.
Why combination therapy works better
Here’s the simple logic:
- Finasteride helps protect follicles by reducing DHT (defence)
- Minoxidil helps stimulate follicles at the scalp (offence)
You’re building a better environment for hair to stay and grow, while also nudging follicles back into action. The research shows this two-pronged approach produces results neither treatment can achieve alone.
How long does it take to see results?
Hair growth is slow, so the timeline matters.
- 0–3 months: you may notice less shedding (or sometimes a temporary shed as hairs cycle)
- 3–6 months: early signs of improvement can start
- 6–12 months: more visible thickening is common
- 12+ months: best results often show with steady use
The biggest mistake is stopping too early. These treatments are more like brushing your teeth than doing a one-off course.
Side effects: what to know
Most people use these treatments without major issues, but it’s smart to know the common ones.
Minoxidil side effects
- Scalp dryness, itching, or redness
- Flaking or irritation
- Rarely, unwanted hair growth if it spreads to other areas
Finasteride side effects
A small number of men report:
- Lower sex drive
- Erectile difficulties
- Mood changes
If you notice side effects, don’t guess. Speak to a clinician or pharmacist. Often, there are options, such as reviewing the dose, checking other causes, or switching the approach, such as using topical solutions.
Compounding: combining minoxidil and finasteride into one topical solution
If you like the idea of combination therapy but want a simpler routine, compounding can help.
Compounding is when a specialist pharmacy prepares a medicine to a specific formula. In this case, it can mean combining minoxidil and finasteride into a single topical solution, so you apply one product instead of juggling two.
This can be useful if you:
- Prefer a simpler daily routine
- Want a tailored strength or base
- Have scalp sensitivity to certain ingredients (for example, propylene glycol)
- Reduce systemic side effects by using a topical application
Courier Pharmacy can compound combination minoxidil + finasteride formulations, where clinically appropriate, following a prescriber review. That means you can access a personalised option with professional oversight and regulated preparation—and get the proven benefits of combination therapy in one easy step.
To learn more about compounding, read our blog, “What is a compounding pharmacy?”
Why a regulated UK pharmacy matters
Hair loss treatment is a long game. The last thing you need is a counterfeit product or the wrong dose.
Using a regulated UK pharmacy helps ensure:
- Genuine medication
- Safe prescribing checks
- Clear guidance on use
- Support if you get side effects or have questions
Summary
The research is clear: the combination of finasteride and minoxidil is the gold standard for male pattern hair loss. Studies show it produces significantly better results than minoxidil alone—higher efficacy rates, better hair density, and thicker hair growth.
Minoxidil works on the scalp to stimulate follicles, while finasteride reduces DHT to protect follicles from shrinking. Together, they’re a powerful, practical plan—especially when you stick with it for at least 6–12 months.
If you want a simpler routine, Courier Pharmacy can compound a combined topical minoxidil + finasteride formulation, giving you the proven benefits of combination therapy with personalised preparation and clinical oversight.
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Finasteride 1mg tabletsPrice range: £13.99 through £52.45
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Loniten 2.5mg tablets (Minoxidil 2.5mg tablets)Price range: £39.99 through £99.99
FAQs
Is minoxidil + finasteride really better than minoxidil alone?
Yes. A 2024 trial showed 86.7% efficacy with combination therapy versus 69.1% with minoxidil alone. A 2025 meta-analysis of seven trials confirmed that combination therapy improves hair density, thickness, and appearance more than minoxidil alone.
How much better is the combination?
Studies show that combination therapy produces clinically meaningful improvements in hair density, diameter, and overall appearance that exceed those achieved with minoxidil alone. By week 24, the combination group showed superior results.
Can I use minoxidil without finasteride?
Yes. Minoxidil can be used on its own, and many people do. But the research shows you’ll get better results with both.
What happens if I stop using them?
The benefits usually fade over time. Hair loss tends to return to its previous pattern within months after stopping.
Can women use these treatments?
Minoxidil may be suitable for some women, depending on the cause of hair loss. Finasteride is not suitable for women who are pregnant or could become pregnant. Always get clinical advice.
Can Courier Pharmacy make a combined minoxidil and finasteride product?
Yes—Courier Pharmacy can compound combination topical formulations where appropriate, following a prescriber review and clinical suitability checks. This gives you the proven benefits of combination therapy in one simple application.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always speak to a qualified clinician or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing treatment.
References
[5] Courier Pharmacy. (n.d.) How long does it take for minoxidil to work? Available at: https://courierpharmacy.co.uk/how-long-does-it-take-for-minoxidil-to-work/ (Accessed: 24 January 2026).
