Praxis Medical Insights

Est. 2024 • Clinical Guidelines Distilled

Made possible by volunteer editors from the University of Calgary & University of Alberta

Last Updated: 9/9/2025

Minoxidil Treatment for Androgenetic Alopecia

Combination Therapies

  • Complex therapy combining PRP with minoxidil is more effective than minoxidil monotherapy for treating androgenetic alopecia, with the American Academy of Dermatology recommending combination therapy for optimal results 1, 2
  • Studies show that PRP combined with topical minoxidil provides superior results in terms of hair density and thickness compared to either treatment alone, with a strength of evidence rated as high 2, 3
  • PRP increases the proliferative activity of hair follicle cells and improves hair morphology in patients with androgenetic alopecia, according to the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery 4
  • Nonactivated PRP has shown greater increases in hair count and total hair density (31%) compared to activated PRP, with the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery recommending nonactivated PRP for optimal results 4

Emerging Treatment Options

  • Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is showing promise as a safe and cost-effective adjuvant treatment for androgenetic alopecia, with the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery recommending PRF as a potential treatment option 5