Oral minoxidil is effective for hair loss and unlikely to significantly affect collagen synthesis, making it a safe option without causing premature skin aging. Users report positive hair regrowth without noticeable skin aging.
Topical pirfenidone is highlighted as an effective anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic treatment for hair loss, particularly in addressing perifollicular fibrosis, which may enhance the effectiveness of standard treatments like finasteride and minoxidil. The user also uses calcipotriol, MCT oil, ciclopirox shampoo, and benzoyl peroxide shampoo as part of their regimen.
Pirfenidone is suggested to treat fibrosis and baldness by blocking inflammation markers and reducing collagen. It is also available as a gel for scar removal.
PP405 may revive dormant hair follicles but is unlikely to help with long-term baldness where follicles are replaced by scar tissue. It is seen as a potential adjunct to treatments like minoxidil and finasteride, but its effectiveness on deeply fibrotic or scarred areas is doubtful.
Aminexil/Kopexil may help reduce hair loss by addressing perifollicular fibrosis in androgenetic alopecia, but it lacks the extensive clinical backing of finasteride and minoxidil. Some users find it effective, but availability and cost are issues, especially in the US where it's not FDA-approved.