Affecting millions of people all over the world, hair loss is a common problem which does not discriminate between age, gender and the like. In fact, according to Medihair, at some point in life, 85% of men and 33% of women all over the world face hair loss. 

A combination of controllable and uncontrollable factors can lead to hair loss, which can include nutrition, lifestyle factors, hormonal imbalances, genetics, and stress. To reverse hair loss, the market is filled with almost an unlimited number of treatments, which can be natural or harmful, depending on which one you choose. So, opting for the right method takes time and effort. 

To make your decision easier, we will discuss two of the most popular hair growth medications used to combat hair loss: Redensyl and Minoxidil. In this blog, we will look at the advantages and disadvantages of both options, measuring their effectiveness, side effects, and suitability based on particular kinds of hair loss. 

Understanding Hair Loss 

Source: Hair Doctors

Your hair has a natural cycle of growth that it follows in 3 different phases: 

• Anagen - Growth phase
• Catagen - Transition phase; and 
• Telogen- Resting phase 

The major cause of hair loss is the shortening of the first growth phase, Anagen, which leads to short and weak hair strands. Anagen phase shortens because of various factors, the main ones including: 

• Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA): This condition is hereditary and is the most commonly occurring reason for hair loss in both women and men. The condition occurs due to hormones called dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which shrinks the size of the hair follicles. 
• Alopecia Areata: This is an autoimmune disorder which results in patches of hair loss either in the scalp or body, or both in extreme cases.
• Telogen Effluvium: This type of hair loss is temporary and is caused by lifestyle factors such as certain medications, nutritional deficiencies, and stress or by temporary conditions like short-term illnesses and childbirth. 

Redensyl Vs Minoxidil – Covering the Basics 

Redensyl is a comparatively newly emerged solution to hair loss. It is derived from camellia sinensis leaf extract, larch tree extract, and various other types of elements. Combined often with other types of hair growth ingredients like Capixyl and Procapil, Redensyl is classified as a cosmetic ingredient. 

In contrast to Redensyl, Minoxidil is a well-established medication that has been part of hair loss treatments for decades. It is available over the counter in various concentrations, like 2% or 5% solutions. Minoxidil requires constant use to make sure hair loss prevention is sustained. Typically, it increases the blood flow to the scalp through which it stimulates hair growth. 

How Redensyl Works 

The science behind Redensyl centres around its capability to stimulate the stem cells of hair follicles. These special cells live deep within the scalp and greatly contribute to hair growth. Here’s a breakdown of Redensyl’s action: 

• DHQ Complex: This complex contains dihydro quercetin-glucoside (hence the name), which is key in promoting the proliferation and expansion of the dermal papilla cells. These cells support and nourish growing hair. 
• Cyclic Decapeptide (CDP): This peptide leads to an increase in the activity of certain signalling pathways within the hair follicle. This encourages stem cell activity and hair growth. 

Advantages of Redensyl

• Free of side effects: One of the main advantages of Redensyl is that people usually have a high tolerance for the medication, and almost no side effects have been reported by users, with a few exceptions. To some people who are overly sensitive to certain hair loss treatment methods, Redensyl can be a great option. 
• Natural composition: One of the main reasons it has little to no side effects is that it is derived only from natural sources. Hence, it’s also effective and safe to use. Vegans would also find Redensyl appealing as it is a sustainable, plant-based alternative. 
• Made for long-term use: Redensyl can be used for a long period of time, while simultaneously maintaining its efficacy. Again, for those looking for a sustained choice, it is a perfect solution. 
• Strengthens hair: Redensyl is high in amino acid content; hence, it not only helps in hair growth but also leads to hair strengthening as it reduces breakage and improves overall hair health. 

Disadvantages of Redensyl 

• May not work for some: Individual responses to Redensyl, as with other products too, can vary from person to person. So it might not be equally effective for everyone. 
• Slower results: Redensyl isn’t a fast solution; you need consistent use to notice results. It will take a long time until you see physical changes in your hair. 

Redensyl and the Hair Growth Cycle 

Redensyl has a very important role to play in making sure the hair growth cycle is regulated, especially the last resting phase, Telogen, during which hair usually falls out. By controlling hair during this phase, Redensyl will help reduce hair loss and promote new, healthy hair growth. 

Redensyl also helps in extending the growth phase. Anagen, make sure that hair grows thicker and longer before it enters the last phase. This part of Redensyl’s mechanism is particularly helpful for people who have early signs of hair loss and those who experience hair thinning. 

How Minoxidil Works 

Minoxidil has the ability to expand and relax blood vessels, which makes it a vasodilator  This action helps in improving blood circulation, thus allowing the hair follicles to absorb increased oxygen, blood and nutrient delivery. The follicles thus getting improved blood flow, get nourished, which stimulates hair growth.

Further, Minoxidil can have a direct effect on hair follicles as it can prolong the growth phase, Anagen, and also shorten the resting phase, Telogen. These simultaneous actions not only help in new hair growth but also revitalise the existing follicles. Due to all this, Minoxidil is considered effective for different kinds of hair loss. 

Advantages of Minoxidil

Clinically proven: Subject to expansive research and study, Minoxidil is clinically proven to boost hair growth, especially in male and female pattern baldness (Androgenic alopecia). A few months of consistent use have helped many users see visible changes in hair. 

Easy application: Since it is easy to apply, the convenience has enabled users to stay more consistent as it does not take too much time or effort on their part. This ease is due to its availability in topical solutions as well as foams. 

Wide availability: Minoxidil is opted for by a large number of people as it is easily accessible and available over the counter. As it does not need a prescription for use either, it has gained more popularity. 

Disadvantages of Minoxidil

High maintenance: Minoxidil must be used over a long period of time for its users to see results. Discontinuing it will lead to a reversal of the benefits accrued, so users may experience hair loss within a couple of months after discontinuation. 

Not a cure: Minoxidil will fetch fast results because it merely aims at controlling the symptoms; it does not work on correcting the root cause and doesn’t address the underlying cause. Hence, it is not efficient when your overall health is taken into consideration. 

May not work for some: Unlike Redensyl, Minoxidil won’t work for everyone because it does not address the root cause of hair loss, covering up just the symptoms. So, even though it is effective for many, it may not be a sustainable solution when we consider overall health. 

In-Depth Comparison 

Efficacy: Redensyl or Minoxidil?

Measuring their effectiveness requires us to understand first that they adopt different mechanisms to fight hair loss. It depends on the cause of hair loss, subjective response and personal preference as to which one is right for you. 

Redensyl is designed to revive and revitalise hair follicle stem cells, which promotes hair growth at the cellular level. It has been shown to increase the density and quality of hair, particularly in the early stages of hair loss, Stages 1-2. Studies have also shown that Redensyl, by stimulating the hair follicles, can increase their number too, in the anagen phase, thus leading to thicker, healthier hair. 

Minoxidil has had a reputation for being a clinically proven treatment, particularly popular among those facing androgenic alopecia. Its mechanism works by increasing the blood flow to the hair follicles, which makes sure nutrients are properly delivered and the growth phase of hair is extended. 

While Minoxidil has shown really good results, especially in the advanced stages of hair loss, it does not yield the same kind of results for all its users. While some people have seen highly satisfying results, some users were underwhelmed by its performance. The difference, as mentioned before, depends on the cause and individual response. 

Which Works Faster?

Redensyl is highly effective, but it can take a long time to show results. Any visible changes are noticed only after consistent use for over 3 to 6 months. The reason for its slowness is its mechanism: since it focuses on cellular regeneration and the long-term health of hair follicles, it does not result in immediate hair growth. 

On the flip side, minoxidil is known for its super-fast results, as users have reported visible hair regrowth in just 2-4 months of use. This is why Minoxidil has been the most popular choice among hair serum options, as most individuals desire immediate hair restoration. 

Should you be worried about Side effects? 

While both redensyl and minoxidil are commonly used and generally well-tolerated, each can cause its own set of side effects. Therefore, it is important to be aware of potential risks when using either treatment.

Redensyl’s side effects are very minimal. As is with any new product used on skin/ hair, some users may experience mild irritation and/ or dryness. There are seldom times people have reported severe reactions. This is largely because of a plant-based formulation, which makes it very safe and suitable for long-term use without any drastic side effects. 

Minoxidil, on the other hand, can have way more side effects than Redensyl. This includes scalp irritation, dryness and flaking; more severe side effects can include rapid heart rate, dizziness and changes in body hair patterns. Hence, users with sensitive skin or any underlying medical conditions may find it particularly concerning. Most importantly, Minoxidil, if discontinued abruptly, can lead to what’s known as “rebound hair loss” - meaning all the progress you made will be lost. This is not a concern for Redensyl. 

Can Redensyl and Minoxidil be Combined?

Potential Benefits of Combination Therapy

The logical reasoning that backs the combination therapy is taking advantage of the complementary qualities of Redensyl and Minoxidil. As Minoxidil improves the blood flow to the hair follicles and stimulates growth, Redensyl works at the cellular level so that it supports hair follicle health and reduces hair shedding. This dual approach has the potential to greatly improve hair quality and density. This will thus address both immediate and long-term hair loss problems. 

More importantly, making use of both options together will help in containing the negative side effects that Minoxidil is known for. Redensyl has a gentle formulation that will help soothe scalp irritation, which Minoxidil users often reported. This is also a comprehensive solution that people with hair loss can use regardless of their hair loss stage. It might maximise the chances of regrowth as well.

If you're looking for a product that effectively combines Redensyl and other clinically proven ingredients, Masofta Hair Growth Serum is worth considering. This innovative serum is crafted with a potent blend of 3% Redensyl, 4% Anagain, 3% Biacapil, 3% Procapil, 5% Capixyl, Rosemary, Biotin, Rice Protein, and Keratin. This advanced formula works to stimulate hair follicles, promote cell regeneration, and prolong the hair growth phase, resulting in thicker, fuller hair. The serum also nourishes the scalp, strengthens the hair shaft, and helps address various hair concerns such as receding hairlines, bald patches, hair thinning, and hair fall.

Considerations and Precautions 

Firstly, consulting a healthcare professional before opting for combination therapy is very important, to make sure that it's suitable for you as an individual, with regard to your hair condition and subjective response. The professional may also accordingly guide you on the dosage, application method and other precautions you have to take to ensure safety. 

You should also constantly monitor the response to the treatment. How your scalp reacts to it is most important. The proper use of redensyl and minoxidil, whether they should be used together or in intervals, varies from individual to individual. This should be coupled with regular check-ups with healthcare professionals and consistent use on your part to see results. 

Wrapping up 

After thoroughly exploring the mechanisms, advantages, and disadvantages of Redensyl and Minoxidil, we hope that the choice between them will be easier. Based on your hair fall stage, your body’s tolerability, and their side effects, you should be able to choose the right one for you.