Follicle Fix

• Increased hair growth by prolonging the anagen (growth) phase of hair cycle
• Increased hair thickness
• Stimulates proliferation of follicle matrix cells
• Promotes larger and more robust follicles

Topical application of finasteride and minoxidil is generally well tolerated and risks of systemic side effects are low.

Potential Side Effects

• Irritation, redness, or itching at the application site.
• Changes in hair color and texture may occur.
• Dizziness

Precautions

• Patients who are pregnant or could become pregnant should not touch or handle finasteride.
• This medication is a potential teratogen. Women of childbearing age must check with their provider before initiating. Contraception should be used during and for at least 30 days after the last finasteride dose.
• Minoxidil is excreted into breast milk and therefore should be avoided in nursing mothers.
• For topical use only on the scalp; do not apply to other parts of the body.
• Male infertility and reduced semen quality have been reported with oral finasteride use, though these effects are typically reversible and dose-dependent. This risk is considered low with topical application due to minimal systemic absorption.

Contraindications

 Use is contraindicated in patients who are pregnant or may potentially be pregnant.

Topical finasteride works by competitively inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase Type 2 in the scalp, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a major contributor to androgenetic alopecia, leading to the shrinkage of hair follicles over time. By lowering DHT levels specifically in the scalp, topical finasteride helps prevent further follicle miniaturization, supporting the maintenance of existing hair and potentially encouraging regrowth.

Topical minoxidil works as a vasodilator, enhancing blood flow and nutrient supply to the hair follicles. It reduces the length of the resting (telogen) phase, encouraging follicles to transition more quickly into the growth (anagen) phase, and extends the duration of that growth phase. Minoxidil may be exerting these effects by directly stimulating growth factors like vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in dermal papilla cells (DPC), which promote blood vessel networks. Minoxidil may also be prolonging the survival of DPC via the phosphorylation of Akt signaling pathways and forestalling apoptosis (cell death).

Q. How long will it take for Follicle Fix to work?

A. Although the medication starts acting at the follicular level immediately, it may take several months for visible results to appear. Many individuals begin to notice improvement around the 3-month mark, while others may require more time. This delay is due to the way the medication works—by modifying the natural hair growth cycle and extending the active growth phase. Adherence is key to ensure the the best results.

Q. There are oral forms of the medication with the same ingredients found in Follicle Fix. How do the two compare?

A. Medications that are ingested orally will have a systemic effect and pose a higher risk of side effects. Minoxidil, taken orally may increase heart rate, sharply decrease blood pressure, worsen heart failure in patients with the condition, and cause fluid gain. Oral finasteride can cause side effects such as sexual dysfunction and breast tenderness. When Follicle Fix is applied topically, it permeates the skin to yield high concentrations of the drug in the target tissue, but without any significant systemic absorption. The risk of side effects with Follicle Fix is minimized compared to ingestion of an oral form.

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Lachgar, et al. "Minoxidil upregulates the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor in human hair dermal papilla cells." British Journal of Dermatology 138.3 (1998): 407-411.

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