TL;DR. Androgenetic alopecia is driven by DHT — the same hormone in both sexes. The two most-evidenced therapies are minoxidil (topical) and finasteride (oral or topical). Compounded topicals combine them — and often add retinoic acid or anti-inflammatory adjuncts — to maximise scalp delivery and minimise systemic side effects.
How androgenetic alopecia works
Hair follicles in genetically susceptible areas of the scalp are slowly miniaturised by dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a more potent androgen converted from testosterone by 5-alpha reductase. Over years, each successive hair cycle produces a thinner, shorter hair — until the follicle stops producing visible hair entirely.
The two evidence-based active ingredients
- Minoxidil — a vasodilator and follicle growth stimulator. Topical 5% solution is the standard, but compounded 7.5% and 10% are also used. Mechanism only partially understood.
- Finasteride — a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor. Standard oral dose is 1 mg/day; topical 0.1% achieves similar scalp DHT reduction with ~1/10 the systemic exposure.
Why topical compounded combinations
- Higher concentrations. Commercial maxes at 5% minoxidil. Compounded 7.5% or 10% for non-responders.
- Combined actives. Minoxidil + finasteride in one daily bottle vs minoxidil + a daily pill.
- Lower systemic finasteride exposure. Important for men concerned about sexual side effects.
- Custom vehicle. Propylene-glycol-free for patients who scalp-react.
What to expect
- 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. Not a sign of failure.
- Lifelong therapy: stopping reverses gains within 6–12 months.
See our hair loss treatment condition page for the specific compounds Lynnity formulates.
Medically reviewed by Vitthia Rama Murti, BPharm Hons (University of Cyberjaya), RPh 15632 — Last reviewed 27 May 2026.