Finasteride
Reduces testosterone conversion into DHT, the hormone behind follicle miniaturization.
Understand what's actually in your routine.
A closer look at why hair loss happens, what each ingredient does, and how every ROOTÉ treatment fits into your plan.
The basics
Why hair loss happens
Pattern hair loss is largely driven by genetics and the hormone DHT, which gradually shrinks follicles until some stop growing visible hair. Gray hair is a separate, unrelated process — pigment cells simply slowing down over time.
See what treats it
Ingredient by ingredient
The ingredient library
DHT-pathway support
Azelaic Acid
A mild DHT-pathway inhibitor, more established as a skin-care active.
Nettle Root
Often paired with saw palmetto for a similar DHT-supporting role.
Saw Palmetto
A milder, less-proven DHT-pathway alternative to finasteride.
Regrowth stimulation
Minoxidil
Widens scalp blood vessels and extends the hair growth cycle's active phase.
Caffeine
May stimulate hair follicles when applied topically to the scalp.
Ginseng
Supports scalp circulation and vitality; a long-used traditional herbal ingredient.
Rosemary
Supports scalp circulation, though with less evidence than minoxidil.
Pigment & nutrition support
Fo-Ti
A traditional botanical used for hair and, informally, natural hair color.
Biotin
A B-vitamin supporting keratin production, most useful when a deficiency exists.
Catalase
An enzyme thought to break down follicle-clogging hydrogen peroxide that affects pigment.
L-Tyrosine
An amino acid that's a precursor in the body's melanin synthesis.
PABA
Informally linked to pigment support; included here for its nutritional role.
Zinc
Supports normal hair tissue growth and repair.
Scalp & hair conditioning
Green Tea
An antioxidant-rich botanical that helps protect scalp condition day to day.
Panthenol
A pro-vitamin B5 that helps hair retain moisture and feel smoother.
Nettle
Supports general scalp conditioning, distinct from nettle root's DHT-pathway role.
Horsetail
A silica-rich botanical traditionally used to support hair strength and texture.
Sage
An aromatic botanical valued for traditional scalp care and its herbal scent.
Jojoba
Mimics the scalp's natural oils, conditioning hair without feeling heavy or greasy.
Pills, serums & topicals
Why treatments come in different forms
Topical solutions
Applied to the scalp so actives reach the follicles directly.
Capsule supplements
Taken daily with food to deliver nutrients through digestion.
Serums
A lightweight, leave-in formula applied once daily.
Shampoos
A daily cleanse that clears buildup and conditions hair.
Ready to find your plan?
See how these ingredients fit your hair with a free, personalized analysis.