Comparing Hair Loss Treatments: Boscal and Shiseido Adenogen for Women

Boscalid

I underwent a blood test at a dermatology clinic and was diagnosed with androgenetic alopecia.
I then visited National Taiwan University Hospital, where the doctor prescribed me finasteride for hair loss prevention and also recommended Shiseido Adenogen, as I heard that Rogaine can feel greasy when applied.
I would like to ask which one, Shiseido Adenogen or Rogaine, has more significant efficacy? I understand that taking finasteride can lead to congenital disabilities, but since I am not a pregnant woman and do not have a boyfriend, I feel comfortable taking finasteride long-term.
However, I later experienced severe pain during my menstrual period and went to a gynecologist, who diagnosed me with endometriosis, as my mother also had a history of this condition.
She eventually recovered after taking traditional Chinese medicine and was able to give birth to my sister.
Therefore, I am not considering this issue of endometriosis for now.

What I want to ask is, since some people say that finasteride can increase prostate activity and women also have prostate tissue, I have to wonder, "If I continue taking finasteride to treat androgenetic alopecia, will it affect my endometriosis?" Or will continuing finasteride only result in more painful menstrual periods? Additionally, I feel that I have been experiencing heavier menstrual bleeding, and I am unsure if this is related to taking finasteride.
Could you please help me with these questions? Thank you!

Pi Pi Tso, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/10/17

Dr. Yang Zhiya reply Dermatology

Hello, Shiseido and Loxon are two products with different ingredients.
To determine which one has more significant effects, large-scale experiments would need to be conducted for comparison.
Additionally, the prostate is a structure that only males possess; females do not have it.
Since the use of Boscalid in women is less common, the literature primarily discusses side effects such as breast tenderness, hirsutism, and allergies, with less focus on topics like menstrual cycles or endometriosis.

Reply Date: 2012/10/17

More Info

When it comes to treating female pattern hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia, there are several options available, including medications like Finasteride (commonly known as Boscal) and topical treatments such as Minoxidil (often referred to as Rogaine) and Shiseido Adenogen. Each of these treatments has its own mechanism of action, effectiveness, and potential side effects.

Finasteride (Boscal) is an oral medication that works by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a key factor in hair loss for both men and women with androgenetic alopecia. While Finasteride is FDA-approved for use in men, its use in women is less common and is typically reserved for postmenopausal women due to concerns about potential side effects, including hormonal imbalances and the risk of birth defects if taken during pregnancy. In your case, since you are not pregnant and have no immediate plans to become pregnant, you may feel more comfortable using this medication. However, it is essential to monitor any side effects, especially concerning your menstrual cycle and any changes in pain levels or blood flow.

Minoxidil, on the other hand, is a topical solution that promotes hair growth by increasing blood flow to hair follicles and prolonging the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle. It is available in various concentrations, with 5% being the most common for women. While some users report that Minoxidil can leave the hair feeling greasy, it is generally well-tolerated and can be effective for many women experiencing hair loss.
Shiseido Adenogen is another topical treatment that is marketed as a hair growth stimulant. It contains a blend of ingredients aimed at improving scalp health and promoting hair growth. While there is anecdotal evidence supporting its effectiveness, scientific studies are limited compared to Minoxidil.
In terms of efficacy, Minoxidil has a more established track record in clinical studies for treating female pattern hair loss compared to Shiseido Adenogen. If you are looking for a treatment with more robust evidence, Minoxidil may be the better option. However, individual responses can vary, and some women may find success with Adenogen.

Regarding your concerns about Finasteride potentially affecting your endometriosis, it is important to discuss this with your healthcare provider. While Finasteride primarily acts on androgen levels, its impact on estrogen and other hormones can vary from person to person. Some women report changes in their menstrual cycle while on Finasteride, including heavier bleeding or increased pain, but these effects are not universally experienced. Monitoring your symptoms closely and maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider will help ensure that you are managing both your hair loss and any underlying health conditions effectively.

In conclusion, both Finasteride and Minoxidil (or Shiseido Adenogen) can be part of a comprehensive treatment plan for female pattern hair loss. It is crucial to weigh the benefits and potential side effects of each option and to consult with your healthcare provider to tailor a treatment plan that suits your specific needs and health considerations. Regular follow-ups will also help in adjusting the treatment as necessary based on your response and any side effects you may experience.

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