What is Happy Head's approach to hair loss medication?
Happy Head provides custom-formulated solutions based on your age, sex, medical history, and specific growth needs. All prescriptions are reviewed by board-certified dermatologists. We offer both topical and oral options; for specific dosage information or to view all our offerings, please visit our product page.
What is Finasteride?
Finasteride is a 5-alpha reductase type II inhibitor that effectively stops hair loss and promotes regrowth by blocking the enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is the primary hormone responsible for androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss) in genetically susceptible individuals. By reducing DHT levels in the scalp, finasteride helps protect hair follicles from miniaturization and allows them to return to their normal growth cycle. It's recommended for men of all ages and women over 50.
What is Dutasteride?
Dutasteride represents an advancement in DHT-blocking technology, as it inhibits both type I and type II 5-alpha reductase enzymes (compared to finasteride which primarily blocks type II). This dual-action mechanism allows dutasteride to reduce DHT levels even further, making it potentially more effective than finasteride. Originally developed for prostate conditions, dutasteride has demonstrated superior efficacy in comparative studies, with some research showing approximately 30% more hair regrowth than finasteride. It's particularly valuable for those who have plateaued on finasteride treatment or experienced unsatisfactory results.
What is Spironolactone?
Spironolactone functions as an androgen receptor antagonist that blocks DHT from binding to receptors in hair follicles, effectively preventing the hormone's hair-thinning effects. It also reduces overall androgen production, making it particularly effective for female pattern hair loss, which often has hormonal triggers. Available in both oral form and topical formulations, spironolactone can help regrow hair and reduce hair thinning without affecting estrogen levels. Because it affects hormone levels, spironolactone is specifically recommended for women under 50 who are not breastfeeding or planning pregnancy.
What is Minoxidil?
Minoxidil is one of the most well-established treatments for hair loss, available in both topical and oral dosages. Minoxidil works through multiple mechanisms: it's a potent vasodilator that increases blood flow to hair follicles; it extends the growth (anagen) phase of the hair cycle; and it activates dormant hair follicles. When applied consistently, minoxidil can not only slow or stop hair loss but also promote regrowth of thicker, stronger hair.
What is Retinoic Acid?
Retinoic Acid enhances the effectiveness of minoxidil by significantly increasing its absorption into the scalp—studies show up to 10 times greater penetration when combined. While many competitor formulations lack this ingredient, Happy Head includes retinoic acid in select formulations to maximize treatment efficacy and deliver more impressive results.
What is Hydrocortisone?
Hydrocortisone is a mild topical corticosteroid that helps soothe the scalp and prevent irritation when applied topically. It works by reducing inflammation, itching, and redness that can sometimes occur with hair loss treatments. Unlike stronger corticosteroids, the low concentration used in hair formulations is gentle enough for regular use while still providing effective relief from irritation.
What is Latanoprost?
Latanoprost is a prostaglandin analog originally used in ophthalmology to treat glaucoma, where an interesting side effect—eyelash growth—led to its exploration as a hair loss treatment. It works by prolonging the active growth (anagen) phase of the hair cycle while simultaneously increasing the transition of follicles from the resting to growth phase. Clinical studies have shown that latanoprost can increase hair density and scalp coverage, particularly when combined with other treatments like minoxidil.
What is Tadalafil?
Tadalafil serves a dual purpose in hair loss treatments. As a vasodilator, it improves blood circulation to the scalp, ensuring hair follicles receive adequate oxygen, nutrients, and growth factors. Additionally, tadalafil may help counteract any issues regarding sexual performance, as it is commonly prescribed for erectile dysfunction.
What is Vitamin D3?
Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) plays a crucial role in hair follicle cycling and hair growth. Research has shown that vitamin D3 receptors in hair follicles are important for maintaining the normal hair cycle, and deficiency is often linked to hair loss conditions like alopecia. This vitamin helps activate hair follicle stem cells, promoting the creation of new hair follicles and supporting the growth phase of existing follicles. Additionally, vitamin D3 has anti-inflammatory properties that can help address scalp conditions that might impede hair growth.
What is Vitamin E?
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect hair follicles from oxidative stress and damage. It promotes better blood circulation to the scalp, which can encourage hair growth and prevent premature hair loss. Vitamin E also helps maintain the natural oils in your scalp, providing essential moisture to keep hair healthy and reduce breakage.
What is Biotin?
Biotin, also known as Vitamin B7, is essential for hair health. It plays a crucial role in the production of keratin, the primary protein that makes up hair. Biotin helps strengthen the hair shaft, reducing breakage and thinning.
What is Cetirizine HCl?
Cetirizine HCl is an antihistamine that helps reduce scalp inflammation and irritation. Research suggests it may create a healthier environment for hair growth by suppressing inflammatory responses in the scalp. This ingredient is particularly beneficial for those with sensitive scalps or inflammatory forms of hair loss.
What is Caffeine?
Caffeine stimulates hair growth by counteracting the negative effects of DHT on hair follicles and extending the anagen (growth) phase of hair. Studies show it can enhance follicle proliferation and increase hair shaft elongation.
What is Melatonin?
Melatonin functions as an antioxidant on the scalp, helping protect hair follicles from oxidative stress. Some clinical studies suggest it may help regulate hair growth cycles and improve hair density in certain types of hair loss.
What inactive ingredients are in the topical solutions?
- Aloe Vera: Helps prevent irritation caused by active ingredients and reduces inflammation
- Water (Aqueous Base): Gentle base for sensitive skin (note, our aqueous base does contain some alcohol)
- Liposomal Base (aka SuperSolution): By using Liposomes to deliver the medication to hair follicles, our SuperSolution enables a slower controlled release of medication, reducing systemic absorption and minimizing the risk of any side effects
- Propylene Glycol: Carrier for active ingredients
- Ethyl Alcohol: Carrier for active ingredients
What is the difference between topical and oral medications?
The main difference is based on preference and side effect profile. Topical applications typically reduce potential side effects since they're applied externally. Both topical and oral forms offer similar growth results within 4-6 months of consistent use- typically combining both will yield even better results!
What medications are recommended for women?
For women under 50, we recommend Spironolactone because it doesn't interfere with androgen hormones. Finasteride is the preferred option for women over 50. If you are planning to become pregnant or are breastfeeding, prescription hair growth medication is not recommended.