Hair growth stimulators are topically applied to the scalp. They stimulate hair growth by adding a positive growth-enhancing substance to follicles. Topical Minoxidil is the lone direct hair growth stimulator with an FDA approval. Typically used twice a day, this drug is simply applied to the scalp.

While a 5% foam and solution for men and a 2% solution for women are approved, there are marked differences on Minoxidil’s effects on both genders. Men have reported a positive drug experience with decrease in hair loss and hair count increase. There are no conclusive reports about the effect of Minoxidil use in women. Continued use of Minoxidil has to be ensured or hair growth and other improvements will eventually cease and the hair loss pattern will return.

Sold as Propecia, the FDA-approved drug Finasteride is a synthetic 4-azasteroid compound. The main action of Finasteride is to inhibit the enzyme type one 5 alpha reductase – the enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT in men. DHT is a male hormone that shrinks follicles until hair can no longer be produced. A prescription pill, Finasteride can only be taken by men and must be continually taken or any improvement will be reversed.