Hair Loss Treatment That
Addresses the Cause.
Male pattern hair loss is driven by DHT — a hormone derived from testosterone. At Revive, we address the root cause with FDA-approved medications, physician oversight, and protocols that integrate seamlessly with your hormone care.
Understanding DHT and
Male Pattern Hair Loss
Androgenetic alopecia — male pattern hair loss — is the most common form of hair loss in men. It's driven by dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a potent androgen produced when testosterone is converted by an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase (5-AR).
In men with a genetic predisposition, DHT binds to receptors in scalp hair follicles and causes them to progressively miniaturize — producing thinner, shorter hairs over time until the follicle stops producing hair altogether.
- → DHT is derived from testosterone — not testosterone itself — via the 5-AR enzyme
- → Genetic susceptibility varies — follicle sensitivity to DHT differs by individual and family history
- → Blocking 5-AR reduces DHT production — the most proven pharmacological approach to slowing hair loss
- → Earlier treatment yields better results — DHT protection works best when started before significant follicle miniaturization
What We Evaluate at Your First Visit
- → Hair loss pattern — Norwood scale assessment, recession pattern, density
- → Hormone panel — total/free testosterone, DHT (where indicated), SHBG
- → Family history — maternal and paternal pattern to estimate genetic susceptibility
- → Current medications — including any TRT, supplements, or prior hair loss treatments
- → Fertility and hormonal goals — guides which 5-AR inhibitor is most appropriate
Hair Loss Treatment Options
at Revive
Our physicians prescribe based on your hair loss pattern, lab work, and hormonal goals. All medications sent to your local pharmacy.
Finasteride 1mg (Oral)
A 5-AR inhibitor that blocks the conversion of testosterone to DHT. FDA-approved for male pattern hair loss and BPH. Taken once daily. The most widely studied oral hair loss medication, with decades of clinical evidence supporting its effectiveness for follicle stabilization.
Dutasteride (Oral)
A more potent 5-AR inhibitor that blocks both Type I and Type II isoforms of the enzyme, resulting in greater DHT suppression than finasteride. Prescribed by our physicians for appropriate candidates. Used for hair loss at physician discretion.
Oral Minoxidil (Low-Dose)
A vasodilator that increases blood flow and nutrient delivery to hair follicles — supporting follicle function independent of the DHT pathway. Prescribed by our physicians at low doses (2.5–5mg daily). An established option for hair loss, particularly when combined with a 5-AR inhibitor.
Combination Therapy
For many men, combining a 5-AR inhibitor (finasteride or dutasteride) with low-dose oral minoxidil produces better results than either alone. The two medications address hair loss through independent mechanisms — DHT reduction plus improved follicle circulation. Discuss with your physician whether combination is appropriate for your pattern and goals.
The TRT–Hair Loss Connection
Men on testosterone therapy — or considering it — benefit from understanding how TRT interacts with the DHT pathway.
Men Already on TRT
Testosterone therapy raises total testosterone — and DHT is derived from testosterone. Men who are genetically susceptible to hair loss may see acceleration if DHT rises significantly without protection. We routinely discuss finasteride or dutasteride with TRT patients who have a family history of androgenetic alopecia.
Men Considering TRT
If you're starting TRT and have a personal or family history of hair loss, your physician can discuss starting a 5-AR inhibitor concurrently. This allows testosterone optimization while managing DHT-related hair follicle exposure from the beginning of treatment.
Men with Low T and Hair Loss
Some men with androgenetic alopecia also have low testosterone. Addressing hypogonadism with concurrent DHT protection is a clinically sound approach — optimizing the benefits of testosterone while managing the DHT-driven effects on hair follicles.
Men on Finasteride Considering TRT
If you're already taking finasteride or dutasteride, your physician will factor this into your hormone workup. 5-AR inhibition affects DHT levels and can shift the testosterone-to-DHT ratio — worth reviewing before starting any testosterone protocol.
Because Revive manages both testosterone therapy and hair loss medications, your physician can coordinate these treatments in a single protocol — reviewing labs, adjusting dosing, and ensuring your hair loss and hormonal goals are addressed together, not in isolation.
Your Hair Loss Treatment
Timeline at Revive
First Visit — Consultation + Lab Review
45–60 minute physician consultation. We review your hair loss pattern, hormone labs (drawn on-site or reviewed from recent results), family history, and goals. You'll leave with a prescription for your physician-recommended protocol.
Months 1–3 — Starting Medication
Medications are filled at your local pharmacy. The first phase is primarily about stopping progressive hair loss — most men don't see visible regrowth this early, but stabilization is beginning at the follicle level.
Months 3–6 — Follow-Up Visit
Follow-up appointment to review response, assess for side effects, confirm labs are in range, and adjust protocol if needed. Stabilization is typically evident by this point.
Months 6–12 — Regrowth Window
Evidence of regrowth — where follicles haven't permanently miniaturized — typically becomes visible in this window. Results vary depending on the extent of existing hair loss and individual response to treatment.
Patience is part of the protocol. Hair growth cycles are slow — the full effect of treatment takes 12 months or more to evaluate. Stopping treatment early is the most common reason men don't see the results they hoped for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will finasteride affect my testosterone levels?
Finasteride reduces DHT but does not significantly lower total testosterone. In fact, blocking the conversion pathway can modestly increase testosterone — which is why the testosterone-to-DHT ratio shifts. Your physician will review your labs in context of any concurrent hormone therapy.
Is dutasteride FDA-approved for hair loss?
No. Dutasteride is FDA-approved for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), not for androgenetic alopecia. It is prescribed by our physicians for hair loss based on clinical evidence, and this off-label use is disclosed and discussed at consultation. Finasteride is the FDA-approved option for hair loss.
Can I take finasteride while on TRT?
Yes — combining TRT and finasteride is a well-established and commonly used protocol for men who want hormonal optimization while protecting against DHT-driven hair loss. Your physician will review your testosterone and DHT levels at regular intervals to ensure your protocol is optimized.
What are the side effects of finasteride?
In clinical trials, a small percentage of men experience sexual side effects including reduced libido or changes in ejaculatory function. Most side effects resolve with dose adjustment or discontinuation. There is a subset of men who report persistent side effects — this will be discussed thoroughly at consultation so you can make an informed decision. Post-finasteride syndrome claims have been a subject of ongoing research, and your physician will provide transparent information.
How is Revive's hair loss care different from an online subscription?
Revive prescribes hair loss medications in the context of a comprehensive hormone evaluation — not a questionnaire. Importantly, your physician can coordinate hair loss care with TRT, review relevant labs, and adjust your protocol as your hormones change. Prescriptions go to your local pharmacy at generic prices — not a subscription box with inflated margins.
Start Protecting Your Hair Today
Book your first visit — includes a physician consultation, hormone lab review, and a hair loss treatment plan before you leave. Same-week appointments available.
Book a Consultation →Or call us: (206) 960-4770 · Seattle · Kirkland · Federal Way