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Due to regulatory guidelines, we are unable to list specific brand names on our website and have used replacement terms instead. To find out what these terms refer to, please contact us directly.
Due to regulatory guidelines, we are unable to list specific brand names on our website and have used replacement terms instead. To find out what these terms refer to, please contact us directly.
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Topical Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication: A Doctor’s Guide

By SL Aesthetic Clinic
  • Published Date:
Last Updated:
August 18, 2025

TL;DR 

  • Topical Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication works by reducing DHT at the scalp, helping to slow hair loss with less systemic absorption than oral forms.
  • It is associated with a lower incidence of side effects, particularly sexual side effects, compared to oral formulations.
  • Individual responses may vary.

Table of Contents

For many, hair loss is not just a cosmetic issue—it can chip away at self-esteem, confidence and even one’s sense of identity. The good news is that there are a plethora of treatments for hair loss, from lasers to hair supplements. 

One up and coming treatment for hair loss topical Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication. In this article, we walk through everything you need to know about topical Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication—its efficacy, safety, plus how it compares to oral Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication.

What Is Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication, and How Does It Work?

Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication is a medication originally developed to treat enlarged prostates (BPH). But it didn’t take long for doctors to notice a happy side effect: hair regrowth. Today, Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication is popularly used to treat androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss) by lowering dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels, a hormone that shrinks hair follicles.

In people with a genetic sensitivity, DHT binds to hair follicles—especially on the scalp—and gradually causes them to shrink, leading to thinner, shorter hairs and, eventually, follicle dormancy (aka hair loss).

Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication works by blocking the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which is responsible for converting testosterone into DHT. By reducing DHT production, Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication helps preserve and potentially regrow hair follicles.

Traditionally, Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication has been taken orally at a standard dose of 1 mg/day.

Also Read: Why Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication is Not Recommended as First Line Therapy for Female Pattern Hair Loss

But as we know, oral medications circulate through your entire system. While this method of delivery allows the medication to target DHT throughout your body, it also increases the chances of unwanted side effects in areas far from your scalp.

That’s where topical Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication offers an alternative approach—delivering the medication directly to the scalp, with the aim of reducing systemic absorption and potentially lowering the risk of side effects.

Is Topical Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication as Effective as Oral Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication?

Current research suggests that topical Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication can offer comparable results to its oral counterpart.

One study found that topical Male Pattern Hair Loss Medicationreduced DHT levels in the blood by about 68% to 75%, while oral Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication reduced it by about 62% to 72%. In other words, both forms appear similarly effective in reducing DHT.

In a separate clinical trial comparing 0.25% topical Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication spray, 1 mg oral Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication, and a placebo over 24 weeks, both topical and oral Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication were effective. Although oral Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication showed slightly higher efficacy based on SUCRA ratings, the difference was not statistically significant. This suggests that topical Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication may be a viable alternative for those seeking treatment for hair loss but who prefer or require a non-oral option.

The key difference lies in how each is delivered. Topical Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication works locally at the scalp, which may lead to lower systemic absorption compared to oral medication. This localized action may be beneficial for individuals concerned about whole-body exposure or those who have experienced side effects from oral Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication.

Is Topical Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication Safer?

One of the key advantages of topical Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication is its lower systemic absorption compared to the oral form. Clinical studies have shown that plasma levels* of the drug were much lower in topical users, which may translate to a reduced risk of side effects.

For topical Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication, around 2.8% of users reported side effects, with no documented cases of sexual side effects in the studies reviewed.

For oral Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication, approximately 7.1% of users experienced side effects, with sexual side effects (such as reduced libido or erectile dysfunction) reported in about 2.4% of cases.

While these figures suggest that topical Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication may be a suitable option for individuals who are cautious about systemic exposure or have had concerns with oral medications, it’s important to remember that everyone responds differently. A proper consultation can help guide you toward the most appropriate option based on your personal health profile and goals. 

*The concentration of Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication detected in the bloodstream after use.

Can Topical Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication Cause Erectile Dysfunction (ED)?

Topical Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication carries a much lower risk of erectile dysfunction than the oral version due to its low absorption into the bloodstream. Most users experience no sexual side effects at all.

That said, everybody is different. If you ever notice something off, don’t brush it off. Talk to us—We can help you navigate the next steps.

Can You Combine Topical Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication with Minoxidil?

Absolutely—and in fact, many people do. 

When used together, Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication and minoxidil pack a stronger punch. You can combine formats, too, such as topical Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication with Oral Hair Loss Medication—A 2024 study even found that combo users had better results than those using either treatment alone. 

The combination treatment of Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication and topical minoxidil offers better therapeutic efficacy than monotherapy, whilst staying just as safe.

If you’re considering combining topical and oral Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication, or using them with other treatments, do consult a doctor first to check for potential drug interactions.

Can Women Use Topical Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication?

Yes—but it depends on your stage of life.

Postmenopausal women may safely use topical Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication for female pattern hair loss. However, for women who are pregnant or may become pregnant, both topical and oral Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication are no-gos.

If absorbed into the bloodstream, Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication can interfere with the development of a male foetus, particularly the formation of genitalia—Even small amounts absorbed through the skin can pose a risk.

How to Use Topical Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication

Most versions of topical Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication come in a spray or dropper format.

Here’s the basic rundown:

  • Use once daily on a clean, dry scalp—typically with a 0.25% concentration applied in a 1 ml dose.
  • Apply directly to the areas affected by thinning or hair loss—typically the crown and top of the head.
  • Avoid washing your hair for 4 hours afterwards for complete absorption.
  • Stick to your recommended dose (no doubling up; more does not improve efficacy but might increase the risk of side effects).
  • Be patient and consistent: It can take 3–6 months to start showing results.

Where Can You Get Topical Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication in Singapore?

In Singapore, topical Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication is available only with a doctor’s prescription from a GP or aesthetic clinic. 

At our clinic, we take a multi-pronged approach to hair concerns, with options ranging from prescription medication to supplements, lasers, and microneedling.

While medications like Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication are effective at slowing or preventing further hair loss, they don’t directly stimulate new hair growth. That’s why we often recommend combining hair loss medications with targeted regrowth treatments—so patients receive a more complete plan that both halts hair loss and encourages new hair to grow.

Final Thoughts: Is Topical Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication Worth It?

Topical Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication is worth considering if you want solid results with fewer side effects. It’s a modern approach to hair regrowth that doesn’t overwhelm your system, and can be just as effective as the oral version.

Hair loss may be common, but that doesn’t mean you have to settle for it.

We’re here to help you regain control, one follicle at a time.

Interested in topical Male Pattern Hair Loss Medication for hair loss?

Let’s talk. We’re here to help you understand your options and support you every step of the way. Reach out today to speak with a doctor about personalised hair loss treatment.

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