Finasteride / Dutasteride vs Vitamin C (Ascorbate)
Both are used for skin & hair. Here's how they compare on human evidence, mechanism, safety and availability — in plain English.
| Finasteride / Dutasteride | Vitamin C (Ascorbate) | |
|---|---|---|
| Human evidence | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| Legal status | FDA Approved | OTC Supplement |
| How it works | Inhibit 5α-reductase (SRD5A2), blocking testosterone→DHT conversion. DHT drives male-pattern hair loss and prostate growth. Finasteride hits type II; dutasteride hits I and II. | Cofactor for prolyl/lysyl hydroxylases (P4HA1) in collagen synthesis, for dopamine-β-hydroxylase (noradrenaline), and a water-phase antioxidant regenerating vitamin E. |
| In plain English | Testosterone gets converted into a stronger cousin (DHT) that kills scalp follicles. These drugs block that conversion to save hair — but for a minority, lowering DHT dents libido/mood ("post-finasteride" concerns). | Your body literally can't build collagen without it, and it mops up free radicals. Take it with collagen for tendons. |
| Bottom line | Most effective hair-loss drug; weigh the sexual-side-effect risk honestly. | — |
| Availability | Available over the counter | Available over the counter |
Which is better for skin & hair?
Finasteride / Dutasteride has the stronger human-evidence rating (★★★★★ vs ★★★★☆), but the right choice still depends on your goal, tolerance and budget.
Full breakdowns: Finasteride / Dutasteride · Vitamin C (Ascorbate).
Common questions
Is Finasteride / Dutasteride or Vitamin C (Ascorbate) better for skin & hair?
Finasteride / Dutasteride has the stronger human-evidence rating (★★★★★ vs ★★★★☆), but the right choice still depends on your goal, tolerance and budget.
What's the difference between Finasteride / Dutasteride and Vitamin C (Ascorbate)?
Finasteride / Dutasteride: Most effective hair-loss drug; weigh the sexual-side-effect risk honestly. — Vitamin C (Ascorbate): Your body literally can't build collagen without it, and it mops up free radicals. Take it with collagen for tendons.