Finasteride vs GHK-Cu Topical
A side-by-side research comparison of Finasteride and GHK-Cu Topical across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | Finasteride | GHK-Cu Topical |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Finasteride (Propecia/Proscar) | GHK-Cu Copper Peptide (Topical/Scalp) |
| Category | Hair Growth | Hair Growth |
| Status | FDA Approved (hair loss & BPH) | Cosmetic / Research compound |
| Mechanism | Selectively inhibits type II 5-alpha reductase (predominant in hair follicles), reducing conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone. Serum DHT decreases ~70%, scalp DHT ~40%, allowing follicle recovery. | Activates genes for hair growth including VEGF, FGF, and nerve growth factor at the follicular level. Stimulates dermal papilla cell proliferation. Extends anagen phase via Wnt/β-catenin pathway activation. Delivers copper for lysyl oxidase (collagen cross-linking). |
| Molecular weight | 372.54 Da | 403.92 Da (with Cu) |
| Half-life | ~6-8 hours (but DHT suppression lasts 24h) | ~2-4 hours (topical depot at scalp) |
| Bioavailability | ~80% oral | Topical penetration to dermal papilla |
| Typical dose | 1 mg (hair) or 5 mg (prostate) | 1-2 mg/mL in scalp solution or serum |
| Frequency | Daily | Daily application |
| Route | Oral tablet | Topical scalp serum or mesotherapy injection |
Finasteride reported benefits
- Halts hair loss progression (90% of men)
- Regrows hair (65% of men)
- Well-studied long-term safety
- FDA-approved
- Available generic
- Topical option available
GHK-Cu Topical reported benefits
- Follicle stem cell activation
- Increased hair follicle size
- Scalp angiogenesis
- Collagen remodeling in scalp
- Compatible with all other treatments
- Anti-inflammatory for scalp
Related comparisons
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.