Finasteride vs Minoxidil vs PRP: Which Hair Loss Treatment Should You Choose? (2026)
Last updated: March 2026
Which is better: finasteride, minoxidil, or PRP?
No single treatment is "the best." Each targets hair loss through a different biological pathway, and clinical evidence overwhelmingly shows that combining all three produces results dramatically superior to any one alone. A landmark study demonstrated 94.1% improvement with combination pharmaceutical therapy versus 59% with minoxidil alone (Dermatologic Therapy). Adding PRP further enhances outcomes by delivering concentrated growth factors directly to weakened follicles.
The question is not "which one should I choose?" but rather "which combination is right for my specific situation?"
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How does finasteride work?
Finasteride inhibits the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, reducing dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels by approximately 70%. DHT is the hormone directly responsible for follicular miniaturisation in androgenetic alopecia. FDA-approved since 1997 for male pattern hair loss at 1mg daily dose.
Effectiveness: 80 to 90% of men maintain or increase hair density. The most effective single pharmaceutical for male androgenetic alopecia. Results begin at 3 to 6 months.
Side effects: Approximately 1 to 2% of men experience sexual side effects (reduced libido, erectile changes), reversible upon discontinuation in most cases. The EMA updated labelling in 2025 regarding psychiatric risk screening.
Limitations: Prescription only. Not suitable for women of childbearing age. Requires daily dosing indefinitely. Does not directly stimulate follicular regeneration.
Cost: £15 to 40 per month.
How does minoxidil work?
Minoxidil prolongs the anagen (growth) phase and increases scalp blood flow. Originally a blood pressure medication, its hair growth effects were discovered as a side effect. FDA-approved for both men and women.
Effectiveness: Up to 60% of users see visible improvement. A 5-year follow-up found regrowth peaks at approximately 12 months, then gradually declines with monotherapy.
Side effects: Initial shedding (weeks 2 to 6), scalp irritation or dryness, unwanted facial hair growth in some women.
Cost: £10 to 30 per month (topical).
How does PRP work?
PRP concentrates growth factors from your own blood to 5 to 10 times normal levels and delivers them via scalp injection. Growth factors including PDGF, VEGF, TGF-beta, EGF, and IGF stimulate dormant follicles, extend the growth phase, and improve hair calibre.
Effectiveness: A 2025 meta-analysis of 43 RCTs (1,877 participants) confirmed PRP significantly increases hair density (average 31% at 6 months). A 2025 systematic review found PRP comparable to topical minoxidil. At The London PRP Clinic: 87% success rate.
Side effects: Mild and temporary. Scalp redness for 24 to 48 hours, minor swelling, occasional tenderness. No systemic effects, no sexual side effects, no hormonal impact. The safest of the three.
Cost: £545 per session at The London PRP Clinic. £1,455 for a course of three.
Why combination therapy is the standard of care in 2026
Finasteride blocks DHT production, stopping the hormonal driver. Minoxidil improves blood flow, ensuring follicles receive adequate nutrients. PRP delivers concentrated growth factors that actively regenerate weakened follicles. When all three are combined, you simultaneously stop the cause, support the blood supply, and regenerate the follicles.
At The London PRP Clinic, our GMC-registered doctors design personalised combination protocols. For men: typically finasteride plus minoxidil plus PRP. For women: minoxidil plus PRP, with spironolactone discussed where appropriate. Pharmaceutical referrals are coordinated with your GP.
Building your personal protocol
Men with early thinning: Finasteride 1mg daily plus topical minoxidil plus PRP (3 sessions, then maintenance). Expected improvement: 80 to 94%.
Men who cannot take finasteride: Minoxidil plus PRP with microneedling. Expected improvement: 60 to 87%.
Women with pattern thinning: Minoxidil plus PRP. Spironolactone discussed where appropriate. Expected improvement: 60 to 87%.
Anyone wanting to maximise results: All available treatments combined, including mesotherapy and ExoRevive exosome therapy (from £445) for the most comprehensive protocol.
What if I cannot take finasteride?
If finasteride is not suitable (women, men with concerns about side effects, or medical contraindications), PRP becomes even more important as the primary regenerative treatment. Minoxidil plus PRP is an effective combination without finasteride. For women, spironolactone may be an alternative anti-androgen option. Your doctor at The London PRP Clinic will design a protocol based on your specific situation.
Build your personalised protocol > WhatsApp | Email: team@thewellnesslondon.com | Call: +44 20 3951 3429
The London PRP Clinic by The Wellness. PRP from £545. ExoRevive from £445. 87% success rate. 187+ five-star reviews. Marylebone and Canary Wharf.
Medical Disclaimer: Finasteride requires prescription and medical assessment. Results vary. All treatments at The London PRP Clinic performed by GMC-registered doctors. Last reviewed March 2026.