Medically reviewed by: Vitthia Rama Murti, BPharm Hons (University of Cyberjaya), RPh 15632 — Chief of Staff & Compounding Pharmacist, Lynnity Compounding Pharmacy.
Last reviewed: 27 May 2026.
Androgenetic alopecia — the most common cause of hair loss
Androgenetic alopecia (male- and female-pattern hair loss) affects roughly 50% of men by age 50 and around 40% of women by age 50, with a strong genetic component. In both sexes, the underlying mechanism involves the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by 5-alpha reductase, and the progressive miniaturisation of genetically susceptible hair follicles.
Two evidence-based treatments slow or partially reverse this process:
- Minoxidil — a vasodilator and follicle-growth stimulator. Available OTC as 2% or 5% topical solution / foam.
- Finasteride — a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor. Available as 1 mg oral tablet (Propecia / generic).
Both work, but each has compliance and side-effect limitations. Compounded topical formulations let the prescriber combine and concentrate both — and add adjuncts — in one daily product.
Common Lynnity hair-loss compounds
| Compound | Notes |
|---|---|
| Minoxidil 5% / 7.5% / 10% topical solution | Higher concentration for patients with limited response to 5% |
| Minoxidil 5% + finasteride 0.1% topical solution | Most-requested combination — adds topical anti-DHT effect with limited systemic exposure |
| Minoxidil 5% + finasteride 0.1% + retinoic acid 0.025% | Retinoic acid increases minoxidil absorption |
| Minoxidil 5% + dutasteride 0.1% | For non-responders to topical finasteride |
| Minoxidil 5% + finasteride 0.1% + ketoconazole 2% | Adds anti-inflammatory / DHT modulation at the scalp |
| Oral minoxidil 0.25 mg / 1.25 mg / 2.5 mg capsule | Low-dose oral protocol per prescriber direction |
| Topical spironolactone 5% solution | Female-pattern hair loss; testosterone-blocking at scalp |
Why compounded vs commercial
- Higher concentrations — commercial topical minoxidil maxes at 5%. Some patients benefit from 7.5–10%.
- Combined actives — minoxidil + finasteride in one daily bottle vs minoxidil + a daily pill.
- Lower systemic finasteride exposure — topical finasteride at 0.1% achieves measurable scalp DHT reduction with roughly 1/10 the systemic exposure of oral finasteride. Useful for men concerned about sexual side effects.
- Custom vehicle — propylene-glycol-free for patients who scalp-react.
What to expect
- Visible result timeline: 3–4 months for stabilisation, 6–9 months for visible improvement, 12 months for full response assessment.
- Initial shedding — common in the first 6–8 weeks, especially with minoxidil. Not a sign of failure.
- Lifelong therapy — stopping treatment reverses the gains within 6–12 months.
- Side effects — scalp irritation (PG vehicle), occasional facial hair from minoxidil run-off, rare cardiovascular (palpitations, dizziness — call your doctor).
How to start
- Speak to a dermatologist, trichologist, or GP. Bring photos of the affected scalp area for a baseline.
- They prescribe — typically a 3-month trial of a topical combination with a follow-up.
- Lynnity compounds within 3–5 working days. Shipped nationwide.
See also: Dermatology service page · BHRT for women for menopause-related female hair loss.
FAQ
Does topical finasteride cause the same sexual side effects as oral?
Studies show meaningfully lower systemic absorption and a correspondingly lower rate of sexual side effects with topical finasteride 0.1% vs oral 1 mg. The rate is not zero — about 1–2% in trials, vs 5–10% on oral. Discuss with your prescriber.
How long does compounded minoxidil + finasteride take to work?
Most patients see reduced shedding by month 2–3 and visible regrowth by month 6–9. Full response is assessed at month 12.
Will I have to use this forever?
Yes — discontinuation typically reverses gains within 6–12 months. Plan for long-term therapy.
Is it safe for women?
Topical minoxidil 2% or 5% is approved for women. Topical finasteride / dutasteride for women is off-label and is generally avoided in women of childbearing age due to risk of feminisation of a male foetus. Topical spironolactone is a common alternative.
What does compounded hair-loss treatment cost?
A 60 mL bottle of a 3-active compound typically falls in the MYR 180–280 range for a 2-month supply. Quote on prescription.