fbpx
Menu
Articles

Where to Buy Topical Finasteride?

First Published Sep 16 2025
Last Updated Sep 16 2025
Pharmaceutical
Researched & Written By:
Sarah King, PhD
Reviewed By:
Rob English, Medical Editor
Where to Buy Topical Finasteride?

Full Article

Topical finasteride is gaining traction as a lower-risk alternative to oral finasteride, especially for those concerned about systemic side effects. In the U.S., providers like Ulo and Strut stand out for customization and lab-tested purity. Canadian options include Xyon Health and Essential Clinic, while the UK and EU offer licensed sprays and private compounding through clinics like Hair Repair and Sons. No matter your location, choose sources with strong medical oversight and clear quality standards to ensure you’re getting a safe, effective treatment.

Top Places to Buy Topical Finasteride

  • #1 Choice for Quality and Growth: Ulo
  • Top Runner-Up in the USA: HappyHead
  • Top Pick in Canada: Xyon Health 
  • Top Runner-Up in Canada: Jupiter
  • Top Pick in the UK: Hair Repair Clinic
  • Top Runner-Up in the UK: UsMen

Topical finasteride is a well-known 5ɑ-reductase inhibitor used off-label as a localized treatment for androgenic alopecia (AGA). Finasteride in oral form is an FDA-approved medication for AGA, but its topical formulation is not officially approved in the US. However, compounding pharmacists and telehealth services do prepare it for off-label use.

The goal of using finasteride topically is to deliver the drug to hair follicles in the scalp while minimizing systemic absorption, thereby reducing the risk of side effects commonly associated with the oral pill. Below, we’ll discuss how topical finasteride works and why the source of your topical finasteride matters. Then we’ll explore where to buy topical finasteride in the US and around the world.

Mechanism of action

Finasteride works by inhibiting the enzyme 5ɑ-reductase (specifically the type II isoenzyme) that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is the androgen hormone that binds to hair follicles and causes them to miniaturize in genetically susceptible individuals, leading to thinning hair and eventual hair loss. By blocking DHT production, especially in the scalp, finasteride helps halt this miniaturization process, thereby maintaining or increasing hair density.

Oral finasteride (1 mg daily) is a proven treatment that significantly increases hair counts compared to placebo in men with AGA.[1]Gupta, K.A., Venkataraman, M., Talukdar, M., Bamimore, M.A. (2021). Finasteride for hair loss: a review. Journal of Dermatological Treatment. 1938-1946. Available at: … Continue reading It’s this effect that topical formulations also aim to achieve, but with a more localized effect.

Advantages of Topical Finasteride

The hope of the topical finasteride formulation is localized delivery of the drug to the scalp, which can minimize systemic exposure. By applying finasteride directly to the balding areas, high drug concentrations can be achieved in the skin and hair follicles where it’s needed, while ideally limiting how much finasteride enters the bloodstream. This targeted approach means the scalp DHT can be lowered substantially (similar to oral finasteride’s effect on scalp DHT) without as large a reduction in blood DHT levels.[2]Zhou, C., Bin, Y., Huiming, Z., Rushan, X., Ningning, D., Qinping, Y., Chunlei, Z., Guogiang, Z., Aihua, W., Wei, L., Shuxia, Y., Qingchun, D., Yangfeng, D., Liming, W., Lunfei, L., Danyang, J., … Continue reading In other words, topical finasteride can maintain the same inhibitory effect on scalp DHT with significantly less impact on systemic DHT levels. 

While research is ongoing, the suspected outcome of this is that at the right doses, topical finasteride usage will lead to lower side effects than oral. Oral finasteride is well-tolerated by most, but a minority of users experience side effects like reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, or other hormone-related issues. Research shows that these side effects are less common with topical finasteride.[3]Gupta, A.K., Talukder, M. (2022). Topical finasteride for male and female pattern hair loss: Is it a safe and effective alternative? Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 21(5). 1841-1848. Available at: … Continue reading

Clinical trials of a 0.25% finasteride topical spray in men showed significant hair regrowth versus placebo, with good safety and tolerability; no serious adverse effects were reported, and only mild localized side effects (like slight scalp irritation) occurred.[4]Piraccini, B.M., Blume-Peytavi, U., Scarci, F., Jansat, J.M., Falques, M., Otero, R., Tamarit, M.L., Galvan, J., Tebbs, V., Massana, E. (2021). Efficacy and safety of topical finasteride spray … Continue reading

Other studies similarly report that topical finasteride users experience far fewer sexual side effect reports than oral users, suggesting that keeping finasteride localized to the scalp can indeed mitigate many unwanted systemic effects.[5]Gupta, A.K., Talukder, M., Keene, S.A., Bamimore, M.A. (2025). Is the Safety of Finasteride Correlated with Its Route of Administration: Topical Versus Oral? A Pharmacovigilance Study with Data from … Continue reading Moreover, by delivering the drug via the skin, it’s possible to use a small total dose of finasteride (since it isn’t undergoing first-phase metabolism in the liver), yet still achieve a therapeutic effect in the hair follicle.

Why Sourcing Matters

Since topical finasteride lacks FDA approval as a commercial hair loss treatment, it relies on compounding pharmacies and specialized telehealth providers for preparation. This creates substantial variation in formulation quality and standards across different sources.

The compounding process introduces multiple variables that can significantly impact the final product. Different providers may use varying preparation techniques, carrier systems, and active ingredient concentrations, resulting in inconsistent efficacy and safety profiles between products.[6]American Hair Loss Association. (no date). Hair Loss Treatments Online: What to Know About Compounded Medications. Available at: … Continue reading Without the stringent regulatory framework that governs mass-produced pharmaceuticals, these compounded formulations face less oversight regarding quality control and manufacturing standards.

This regulatory gap creates particular concerns around dosing accuracy. Compounded topical finasteride products may contain active ingredient levels that differ from their labeled concentrations, potentially leading to subtherapeutic underdosing or potentially harmful overdosing. The lack of standardized manufacturing processes and quality assurance protocols means patients cannot be certain they are receiving the intended dose or purity level.

These factors underscore why careful selection of telehealth providers and compounding sources becomes essential when considering topical finasteride treatment, as the wide variation in preparation methods and quality standards can directly influence both treatment outcomes and patient safety.

Price and Purity Considerations

The cost of topical finasteride can vary depending on where you get it and what’s included. In general, because these are custom prescriptions, they tend to be more expensive than generic oral finasteride. Prices can fluctuate based on local pharmacy compounding costs, the inclusion of additional active ingredients, and how the product is sold (subscription model vs. one-time purchase).

Ingredient purity represents another consideration, as the quality of raw finasteride used in compounding can fluctuate significantly based on the supplier and sourcing practices. This introduces concerns about both therapeutic effectiveness and the risk of contamination or impurities in the final product. The inconsistency in raw material quality means that patients may receive formulations with compromised potency or unknown adulterants that could affect safety profiles. 

These quality variations highlight the importance of thoroughly evaluating both the provider and their compounding standards when selecting a topical finasteride treatment. Patients and healthcare providers should prioritize sources that demonstrate transparency in their sourcing practices, manufacturing processes, and quality control measures to ensure they receive a safe and effective compounded topical finasteride product.

Now, let’s explore where you can get topical finasteride in various regions (US, Canada, UK/EU, and elsewhere).

Where To Buy Topical Finasteride

United States Providers

In the US, there is no FDA-approved topical finasteride product on the market. Therefore, all topical finasteride is obtained via prescription compounding. The US has a thriving telehealth industry for hair loss, so many patients get topical finasteride by consulting an online healthcare provider who can prescribe a compounded solution shipped to them. 

Ulo – #1 Choice for Quality & Growth

Ulo stands out in the US telehealth market for its high degree of flexibility and rigorous standards:

  • Evidence-First Formulations:
    • Offered in both low-dose (0.005%) and full-strength (0.2%) topical finasteride, accurately compounded to mirror the proven effects of oral finasteride on scalp DHT.
    • Every batch undergoes independent GC/MS and HPLC testing with lab reports published online so you know exactly what’s in your bottle.

You can read more about our product lab testing results here.

  • Unrivaled Personalization:
    • Add up to five enhancers: 7% minoxidil, 0.01% tretinoin, 0.2% caffeine, 0.01% melatonin, and 1% cetirizine, to tailor your regimen. 
    • Partner physicians collaborate with you to adjust concentrations and ingredients over time, based on your response and tolerance.
    • Treatment regimens can be tailored for once- or twice-daily application, with thoughtfully designed dropper-marked bottles to facilitate accurate dosing.
  • Consumer Safety Built-In:
    • No propylene glycol, no corticosteroids, and no ”trending” additives that lack robust safety data (e.g., no latanoprost or copper peptides).
    • Proprietary, low-irritation vehicle ensures deep follicle penetration without the need to mask side effects with steroids.
  • Transparent Quality & Pricing:
    • Third-party lab reports accompany every shipment for total transparency.
    • Ulo’s pricing starts at $0.82 per ml (or $0.61 per ml with the discount) for the low-dose finasteride-only formulation, increasing with dose and other ingredients.
  • Ongoing Medical Support:
    • Unlimited access to Ulo’s network of licensed physicians via a secure portal, ask questions, report progress, and get real-time guidance anytime.
    • Clear timelines set “possibility vs. probability”, so you know when to expect regrowth, when it might plateau, and how to safely escalate your protocol. 

Ulo was built by advocates who have spent over a decade exposing the hair loss industry’s worst practices and decided to solve them. 

Pros
  • Connects patients directly with licensed providers, offering discreet prescriptions and continuous support throughout their hair restoration journey. 
  • The customized topical treatments blend finasteride and minoxidil, addressing the underlying drivers of hair loss to deliver more noticeable regrowth.
  • Additional ingredients, such as cetirizine, melatonin, caffeine, and retinoic acid, are included to further improve regrowth outcomes.
Cons
  • Twice daily usage can be inconvenient.

HappyHead – #1 Runner Up in the USA

HappyHead is a US-based telehealth company specializing in hair growth solutions with a strong focus on medical-grade, customizable topical treatments. HappyHead offers prescription Topical Finasteride, either as monotherapy or in combination with minoxidil and/or retinoic acid, compounded for each patient after an online consultation with a licensed physician. 

Some versions include minoxidil (up to 8%) and tretinoin, aiming to optimize results based on patient needs and tolerance. HappyHead’s platform emphasizes medical guidance, ongoing support, and flexible subscriptions, shipping directly to consumers in most US states. 

Pros
  • Offers personalized prescriptions through its telehealth platform, ensuring patients receive discreet access to treatment from licensed providers.
  • Its compounded topical solution has the option to combine finasteride with minoxidil and retinoic acid.
  • Flexible formulation strengths enable tailoring to patient needs, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals sensitive to the side effects of oral finasteride.
Cons
  • Twice-daily application is the standard recommendation, which may feel less convenient compared to simpler once-daily regimens.
  • Higher concentrations of finasteride may lead to an increased risk of systemic side effects.
  • No dosing flexibility.

Strut Health

Strut Health is an online compounding pharmacy that provides custom formulas for hair loss. Strut allows some customization: their Finasteride Hair Loss Formula can include finasteride 0.25%, minoxidil 0-7.5%, tretinoin 0-0.0125%, fluocinolone 0.01%, and biotin. Corticosteroids are often used to offset the potential irritation that comes with topical use; however, this comes at the risk of long-term skin thinning for customers.

We conducted third-party testing on their custom formula and found that it met the required levels of finasteride, minoxidil, and tretinoin.

Pros
  • Strut Health offers tailored hair loss treatments and ongoing support from licensed providers.
  • The compounded topical formula combines finasteride with proven agents like minoxidil and tretinoin, both targeting DHT and promoting follicular activity. 
  • Custom blends may also include additional ingredients that can strengthen hair, reduce inflammation, and further adapt the treatment to specific requirements.
Cons
  • Strut Health includes corticosteroids in its formulation to help with the potential irritation of topical use. However, this comes at the risk of long-term skin thinning for customers.
  • Not the cheapest option, costing $1.97 per serving.

Hims

Hims & Hers is a large digital health platform focused on men’s and women’s health. They offer a Topical Finasteride & Minoxidil Spray for hair loss, featuring finasteride 0.1% and minoxidil 6%. A dual-action, pill-free formula is available by prescription after an online consultation. The spray is designed to minimize systemic absorption and side effects compared to oral finasteride, and it’s marketed for its convenient application and personalized telehealth experience.

While we haven’t done third-party testing on their topical formulation, we did on their oral finasteride counterpart – and it met the claimed level of finasteride.

Pros
  • Combines finasteride and minoxidil into a single, easy-to-use topical spray, offering a convenient alternative to oral pills.
  • Once daily usage is recommended, making the regimen less time-consuming than some alternatives requiring multiple applications daily.
Cons 
  • Some users may find sprays less suitable than dropper or foam-based applications, especially if precise targeting of thinning areas is preferred.
  • The formulation’s alcohol base could lead to scalp dryness or irritation for sensitive individuals.

Ro (formerly Roman)

Ro is a well-known direct-to-consumer telehealth provider. Their Roman Hair Solution Rx is a 3-in-1 prescription topical spray: finasteride 0.3%, minoxidil 6%, and tretinoin 0.025%. Ro emphasizes convenience with free follow-ups and no required video visits. Customization is not as extensive as with some compounding pharmacies.

Similar to Hims, we haven’t done third-party testing on their topical formulation, but we did on their oral finasteride product – and it met the claimed level of finasteride.

Pros
  • Roman Hair Solution Rx blends finasteride, minoxidil, and tretinoin into one topical formula. 
  • The solution offers a once-daily, convenient spray application. 
Cons
  • No customization offered
  • No dosing flexibility
  • Some users may experience mild scalp irritation, redness, or dryness due to alcohol-based solutions

Keeps

Keeps is a telehealth brand specializing exclusively in men’s hair loss treatments. Their Topical Finasteride & Minoxidil Gel delivers 0.25% finasteride and 5% minoxidil in a single application. Keeps focuses on ease of use, competitive pricing, and online medical evaluations, shipping treatments directly to most US states. 

As with the above, we haven’t done third-party testing on their topical formulation, but we did on their oral finasteride product – and it met the claimed level of finasteride.

Pros
  • Offers a topical gel combining finasteride and minoxidil to target two AGA routes. 
  • Gel formula designed to minimize systemic absorption.
Cons
  • No customization available.
  • No dosing flexibility available.
  • Most expensive option (price per serving)
Provider Customization Add-Ons Dosing Flexibility Approx. Price/Serving Purity Testing
Ulo Yes Minoxidil 7%, Cetirizine 1%, Tretinoin 0.01%, Melatonin 0.01%, and Caffeine 0.2% Yes, 0.005% or 0.2% finasteride $0.61 3rd-party lab reports.
HappyHead No, the doctor customizes the product for you Finasteride (0.3%), Minoxidil (8%), Retinoic Acid (0.001%), Hydrocortisone (1%) No $1.98 3rd-party lab reports of another product were mixed, with some ingredients not meeting the claimed dose.
Strut Yes Finasteride 0.25%, Minoxidil 0-7.5%, Tretinoin 0-0.0125%, Fluocinolone 0.01%, and Biotin. Yes $1.97 3rd-party lab reports of topical finasteride were good. 
Hims No Finasteride and Minoxidil No $0.65 No 3rd party testing for their topical product, but their oral finasteride product passed lab testing.
Ro No Finasteride 0.3%, Minoxidil 6%, and Tretinoin 0.025% No $0.65 No 3rd party testing done for topical finasteride
Keeps No Finasteride and Minoxidil No $2 No 3rd party testing for their topical product, but their oral finasteride product passed lab testing.

Canada Providers

Xyon Health – Top Pick in Canada

Xyon Health is a telehealth brand offering topical hair treatments, including dutasteride and finasteride. For their finasteride options, you can either buy finasteride alone or combined with minoxidil. The platform requires online consultations with specialist physicians and delivers medications in discreet packaging across Canada.

Pros
  • Xyon Health uses its patented SiloxysSystem gel technology to deliver its treatment directly to the scalp.
  • Offers 92% less systemic absorption than oral finasteride.
  • Alcohol-free formula.
  • Have a choice of finasteride alone or in combination with minoxidil.
  • Convenient once-daily administration.
Cons
  • Not the cheapest option ($327 per order for a 3-month supply).

Jupiter – Top Runner-Up in the USA

Jupiter is a telehealth platform offering personalized topical hair loss treatments. Through Jupiter, customers can access a compounded topical that may include finasteride as well as up to four other active ingredients, depending on their needs, including minoxidil, tretinoin, panthenol, and caffeine. 

Unfortunately, they don’t advertise their concentrations or prices, mentioning that you can only view specific medication pricing and options after completing an online assessment. Jupiter provides free shipping Canada-wide, however. 

Pros
  • Personalized hair loss treatment, which includes finasteride, minoxidil, tretinoin, panthenol, or caffeine. 
  • Convenient once-daily treatments.
Cons
  • A lack of freely available data, including whether dosing flexibility is possible and the price per serving.

Essential Clinic

Essential Clinic is a Canadian telehealth platform that specializes in men’s health issues like hair loss and erectile dysfunction. They offer Topical Finasteride + Minoxidil Liposomal Gel that combines finasteride with minoxidil in a liposomal delivery system designed to enhance scalp penetration while minimizing systemic absorption. The platform provides online consultations with licensed Canadian doctors and nurse practitioners. 

Pros
  • Treatment is paired with ongoing access to licensed Canadian physicians for follow-up and dose adjustments, plus fast, confidential home delivery of medications.
  • The topical finasteride treatment is combined with minoxidil for greater efficacy.
Cons
  • The most expensive option that we are able to see prices for.
  • No customization. 
  • No dosing flexibility.

Beyoung Health

Beyoung Health is another Canadian telehealth clinic (based in Ontario) that offers treatments for men’s health, including hair loss. They prescribe compounded topical finasteride as part of their hair loss program. Beyoung offers finasteride alone or in combination with minoxidil for hair loss therapy. 

Beyoung’s approach is relatively patient-tailored. The doses that they offer are 0.25% finasteride + 5% minoxidil, 0.1% finasteride + 7% minoxidil foam, or finasteride 0.1% + minoxidil 10%.

Pros
  • Offers customizable finasteride doses combined with minoxidil. 
  • Dosing flexibility.
Cons
  • A lack of freely available data, including the price per serving.

Jack Health

Jack Health is a prominent Canadian telehealth platform that offers personalized hair loss treatments, including topical finasteride formulations. Their hair loss program features a product called “Hello Hair”. This program provides custom topical ingredients that may include topical finasteride to assist with hair regrowth.

Pros
  • Dosing flexibility offered.
Cons
  • A lack of freely available data, including the price per serving.
  • No available customization on the site – it is conducted after consultation.
Provider Customization Add-Ons Dosing Flexibility Approx. Price/Serving Purity Testing
Xyon Health Yes Minoxidil 6% Yes, Finasteride 0.25% (with 5% minoxidil) or 2.5% (finasteride alone) $1.21 No
Essential Clinic No Finasteride 2.5% and Minoxidil 5% No $1.61 No
Jupiter Yes  Minoxidil, Tretinoin, Panthenol, and Caffeine. Unknown Unknown None
Beyoung Health Yes Minoxidil (different strengths) Yes Finasteride 0.25% (+5% minoxidil) or 0.1% (+7/10% minoxidil) Unknown None
Jack Health No N/A Yes Unknown None

If you don’t want to buy topical finasteride from a telehealth company, a few dermatology clinics can also prescribe and compound topical finasteride. If you prefer an in-person route, you could ask your dermatologist about a topical finasteride prescription to be made at a local compounding pharmacy. The downside is that compounding costs in Canada can be high, and many dermatologists are still more comfortable with oral finasteride. 

United Kingdom & Europe

In the UK and EU, the situation is a bit different because, unlike the US and Canada, there has been a topical finasteride formulation approved in some markets. In 2021, a finasteride 0.25% topical solution received approval in certain European countries.[7]Zhou, C., Bin, Y., Huiming, Z., Rushan, X., Ningning, D., Qinping, Y., Chunlei, Z., Guogiang, Z., Aihua, W., Wei, L., Shuxia, Y., Qingchun, D., Yangfeng, D., Liming, W., Lunfei, L., Danyang, J., … Continue reading

Hair Repair Clinic – Top Pick in the UK

Hair Repair Clinic is a UK-based specialist compounding pharmacy offering Finasol, their custom-formulated topical finasteride solution. They use TrichoSol, a proprietary alcohol-light delivery system made from natural mineral salts that’s free of propylene glycol to minimize scalp irritation. Available in concentrations ranging from 0.025% to 0.1% finasteride, with custom strengths available upon request.

Pros
  • Products custom-made in the UK by compounding pharmacies, with same-day approval for most orders.
  • Uses the TrichoSol base for improved delivery and minimised local irritation.
  • Offers customization and dosing flexibility.
  • Doesn’t use propylene glycol.
  • Convenient once-daily application.
Cons
  • Prescription required and needs to be paid for privately; will not be reimbursed by the NHS.

UsMen – Top Runner-Up in the UK

UsMen is a UK telehealth platform specializing in men’s health that offers Topical Finasteride 0.1% and Minoxidil 5% spray. They emphasize competitive pricing and do not require subscriptions. To purchase their prescription products, you must complete a consultation.

Pros
  • Cheapest UK offering that we found ($0.51 per serving).
  • Topical finasteride is offered combined with minoxidil. 
  • Users report easy ordering, low costs, flexible purchase options, and rapid home delivery.
Cons
  • No customization or dosing flexibility available. 

Dr Fox

Dr Fox is an established UK online pharmacy that offers Dr. Fox Hair Growth Spray containing finasteride 0.3% and minoxidil 5%. They provide a dual-action topical spray designed to combine the DHT-blocking effects of finasteride with the growth-stimulating properties of minoxidil. 

Pros
  • Good pricing: $0.58 per serving.
  • Same day approval and discreet UK home delivery.
  • The product contains finasteride, minoxidil, and tretinoin for comprehensive treatment.
Cons
  • No customization options.
  • No dosing flexibility.

Sons

Sons is a major UK telehealth platform offering a Topical Finasteride & Minoxidil Spray, combining finasteride with minoxidil and tretinoin. They claim to be the only UK licence holder for both finasteride and minoxidil treatments. 

Pros
  • Convenient, once daily usage.
  • Their finasteride product is combined with minoxidil. 
Cons
  • A lack of freely available data, including whether dosing flexibility is possible and the price per serving.
  • No add-ons available.

Manual

Manual is another leading UK men’s health platform offering an all-in-one spray containing topical finasteride, 10% minoxidil, and 5% azelaic acid. This triple-therapy approach is designed to address multiple aspects of hair loss. Manual provides comprehensive medical support throughout treatment.

Pros
  • The “All-in-One Spray” combines prescription-strength topical finasteride, high-dose minoxidil, and azelaic acid into a single formula for male AGA.
  • Convenient once-daily application.
  • Base formulation designed for efficient absorption.
Cons
  • Women and those with non-androgenic hair loss are excluded, with use restricted to adult men who pass clinical screening.
  • No customization and no dosing flexibility available.
  • A lack of freely available data, including the price per serving.

Hims UK 

Hims UK operates as the British arm of the US company, offering topical finasteride and minoxidil combinations. They provide subscription-based services with online consultations and ongoing medical support. Unfortunately, without going through the consultation, we cannot find out the dosage and price options.

Pros
  • Convenient once-daily treatment
  • Combination of finasteride and minoxidil. 
  • Ongoing medical support available.
Cons
  • A lack of freely available data, including customization, dosing flexibility, and price per serving.

Hair Medics UK

This London-based hair clinic also offers compounded topical formulas for sale. They advertise a topical finasteride (0.1%) and dutasteride (0.1%) combination solution (for men only) for £69.99 ($94.72). They also offer a minoxidil (5%) and finasteride (0.25%) combination solution for the same price.

Pros
  • Offer a customizable topical finasteride solution that can be combined with either dutasteride or minoxidil.
  • Dosing flexibility from 0.1-0.25%.
Cons
  • The most expensive option that we have found per serving. 
Provider Customization Add-Ons Dosing Flexibility Approx. Price/Serving Purity Testing
Hair Repair Clinic Yes Minoxidil 0.025%,0.05%, and 0.1% $0.81 No
Dr Fox No None No $0.58 No
UsMen No None No $0.51 No
Sons No None No Unknown No
Manual No None No Unknown No
Hims UK Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown No
Hair Medics UK Yes  Minoxidil, and Dutasteride 0.1% and 0.25%  $2.71 None

If you choose this path, keep in mind that you’re essentially experimenting on yourself with a product of unknown quality. Whenever possible, opt for a reputable telehealth provider or licensed pharmacy. This way, you’ll have professional medical supervision and a much greater assurance that your medication actually contains the right amount of finasteride.

Final Thoughts

Topical finasteride offers a compelling alternative to oral finasteride for individuals seeking effective hair loss treatment with potentially fewer systemic side effects. While the medication is not FDA-approved in topical form in the US, reputable telehealth and compounding options are available throughout the US, Canada, and parts of Europe. Providers like Ulo, Strut, Happy Head, Xyon, and others have stepped in to fill this gap by offering prescription-based, customized topical finasteride, often with additional active ingredients like minoxidil or tretinoin to enhance results.

When choosing a provider, look beyond marketing claims. Consider customization options, pricing transparency, dosing flexibility, and, crucially, whether third-party testing verifies what’s actually in the bottle. A cheap, poorly compounded product may do more harm than good, and skipping medical oversight could leave you exposed to unnecessary risks.

If you’re serious about topical finasteride, make sure you’re sourcing it from a trusted telehealth platform or compounding pharmacy that provides medical consultation and prioritizes formulation quality. Your treatment’s success and your peace of mind depend on it.

References

References
1 Gupta, K.A., Venkataraman, M., Talukdar, M., Bamimore, M.A. (2021). Finasteride for hair loss: a review. Journal of Dermatological Treatment. 1938-1946. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1080/09546634.2021.1959506
2, 7 Zhou, C., Bin, Y., Huiming, Z., Rushan, X., Ningning, D., Qinping, Y., Chunlei, Z., Guogiang, Z., Aihua, W., Wei, L., Shuxia, Y., Qingchun, D., Yangfeng, D., Liming, W., Lunfei, L., Danyang, J., Hanjie, Z., Jianzhong, Z. (2025). Efficacy and safety of topical finasteride spray solution in the treatment of Chinese men with androgenetic alopecia: A phase III multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Chinese Medical Journal. 10. 1097. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1097/CM9.0000000000003495
3 Gupta, A.K., Talukder, M. (2022). Topical finasteride for male and female pattern hair loss: Is it a safe and effective alternative? Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 21(5). 1841-1848. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.14895
4 Piraccini, B.M., Blume-Peytavi, U., Scarci, F., Jansat, J.M., Falques, M., Otero, R., Tamarit, M.L., Galvan, J., Tebbs, V., Massana, E. (2021). Efficacy and safety of topical finasteride spray solution for male androgenetic alopecia: a phase III, randomized, controlled clinical trial. JEADV. 36(2). 286-294. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1111/jdv.17738
5 Gupta, A.K., Talukder, M., Keene, S.A., Bamimore, M.A. (2025). Is the Safety of Finasteride Correlated with Its Route of Administration: Topical Versus Oral? A Pharmacovigilance Study with Data from the United States Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System. International Journal of Dermatology. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1111/ijd.17957
6 American Hair Loss Association. (no date). Hair Loss Treatments Online: What to Know About Compounded Medications. Available at: https://www.americanhairloss.org/hair-loss-treatments-online-what-to-know-about-compounded-medications-from-telemedicine-providers/#:~:text=One%20of%20the%20primary%20concerns,in%20outcomes%20and%20side%20effects. (Accessed: July 2025)
Sarah King, PhD

Sarah King, PhD

Dr. Sarah King is a researcher & writer who holds a BSc in Medical Biology, an MSc in Forensic Biology, and a Ph.D. in Molecular and Cellular Biology. While at university, Dr. King’s research focused on cellular aging and senescence through NAD-dependent signaling – along with research into prostaglandins and their role in hair loss. She is a co-author on several upcoming manuscripts with the Perfect Hair Health team.

"... Can’t thank @Rob (PHH) and @sanderson17 enough for allowing me to understand a bit what was going on with me and why all these [things were] happening ... "
photo photo
— RDB, 35, New York, U.S.A.
"... There is a lot improvement that I am seeing and my scalp feel alive nowadays... Thanks everyone. "
photo photo
— Aayush, 20’s, Boston, MA
"... I can say that my hair volume/thickness is about 30% more than it was when I first started."
photo photo
— Douglas, 50’s, Montréal, Canada