Close-up of a hairline with grey strands, scientific hair loss care

Scientific fundamentals of hair loss treatment

General information about active ingredients and their research in the field of hair loss. Learn more in our guide.

General information

This information is for general understanding and does not replace medical advice. Individual results may vary.

DHT inhibition

DHT (dihydrotestosterone) is described in scientific literature as a relevant factor in hereditary hair loss. Certain active ingredients may inhibit the conversion of testosterone to DHT.

¹ Kaufman KD et al. (1998). Finasteride in the treatment of men with androgenetic alopecia. J Am Acad Dermatol. [PubMed]

Blood flow stimulation

Certain active ingredients may promote blood circulation in the scalp. The exact mechanisms are described in the scientific literature.

² Olsen EA et al. (2002). A randomized clinical trial of 5% topical minoxidil versus 2% topical minoxidil and placebo. J Am Acad Dermatol. [PubMed]

Individual assessment

Whether a treatment is suitable must be individually assessed by a physician. Dosing is tailored to personal needs and tolerability.

Evidence-based ingredients

Every ingredient is selected for scientific evidence and clinical efficacy.

95/ 100

Finasteride

Inhibits the 5α-reductase enzyme

Established ingredient with strong evidence for men.

Very strong evidenceGold standard orally; growing evidence for topical use.

92/ 100

Minoxidil→

Opens potassium channels in hair cells

Regulator-approved; boosts blood flow and follicle activity.

Very strong evidenceExcellent support topically; low-dose oral use trending.

90/ 100

Dutasteride

Inhibits both isoforms of the 5α-reductase enzyme

Potent DHT blocker; often more effective than finasteride in studies.

Very strong evidenceVery strong evidence for AGA, especially in advanced stages.

66/ 100

Melatonin

Antioxidant protection for hair follicles

Protects follicles; smaller studies indicate benefits.

Moderate indicationsGood signals with a very low side-effect profile.

60/ 100

Tretinoin

Activates vitamin A receptors

Improves penetration and can enhance minoxidil efficacy.

Moderate indicationsSolid evidence as a booster, not as monotherapy.

58/ 100

Cetirizine

Antihistamine with anti-inflammatory action

Anti-inflammatory; small studies show increased hair density.

Moderate indicationsSolid early data, interesting as an add-on.

54/ 100

Caffeine

Stimulates follicles and improves blood flow

Topical stimulant; most useful as an add-on.

LimitedLimited evidence: low risk with modest upside.

48/ 100

Rosemary oil

Improves scalp microcirculation

Botanical approach; soothes the scalp and supports circulation.

LimitedLimited evidence: early head-to-head studies vs. minoxidil are promising; calming effect.

Compounded by Swiss pharmacies

All medications are compounded and shipped by licensed Swiss pharmacies. The pharmacies are subject to Swissmedic quality standards.

orva does not compound medications. We connect patients with licensed physicians and pharmacies.