Although AGA (androgenetic alopecia) treatment is expected to be effective, its cost cannot be ignored. Cost control is important for long-term treatment. Here, we provide a detailed explanation of the common costs associated with AGA treatment and how they can be managed.
1. Main costs of AGA treatment
Cost of oral medication
Finasteride (Propecia)
Cost: Approximately 5,000 to 8,000 yen for one month
Overview: This is an oral drug that suppresses the production of DHT (dihydrotestosterone) and slows the progression of AGA.
Duration of use: Continuous use is required to maintain effectiveness.
Dutasteride (Zagaro)
Cost: Approximately 7,000 to 10,000 yen for one month
Overview: This is an oral drug that has a stronger DHT suppressing effect than finasteride.
Duration of use: Continuous use is recommended.
Cost of topical medicine
Minoxidil (Reup)
Cost: Approximately 5,000 to 8,000 yen for one month
Overview: This is a topical drug that stimulates hair follicles and promotes hair growth. Apply twice a day to areas where you are concerned about thinning hair.
Duration of use: Continued use is required to maintain effectiveness.
Cost of adjunctive treatment
PRP therapy
Cost: Approximately 50,000 to 100,000 yen for one treatment
Overview: Platelets extracted from the patient’s own blood are injected into the scalp to promote hair growth.
Treatment frequency: Usually 3-4 treatments are recommended.
Low power laser therapy (LLLT)
Cost: Approximately 30,000 to 200,000 yen for purchasing the device
Overview: A treatment that irradiates the scalp with a low-power laser to stimulate hair follicles.
Frequency of use: Recommended use several times a week for about 20 minutes each time.
Hair transplant surgery cost
Cost: Approximately 500,000 to 1,500,000 yen for one surgery
Overview: This is a surgery that transplants your own healthy hair into areas with thinning hair. There are methods such as FUT method and FUE method.
Number of surgeries: Depending on the progress of hair thinning, one or two surgeries may be required.
2. Points of cost management
Insurance coverage
Health insurance coverage
Since AGA treatment is considered for cosmetic purposes, it is usually not covered by health insurance. However, if your condition is severe or if you receive treatment at certain medical institutions, you may be partially covered. Talk to your doctor to see if your insurance may cover it.
Use of generic drugs
Generic finasteride
Cost: Approximately 3,000 to 5,000 yen for one month
Overview: This is a generic version of Propecia, which contains the same active ingredients and can be expected to have similar effects.
Generic dutasteride
Cost: Approximately 5,000 to 7,000 yen for one month
Overview: This is a generic version of Zagaro, which contains the same active ingredients and can be expected to have similar effects.
Take advantage of regular purchase discounts and campaigns
Advantages of regular purchase
Cost Discounts: By subscribing, you may be able to purchase your medication at a lower price than usual.
Take advantage of promotions: You can keep costs down by taking advantage of promotions offered by clinics and online pharmacies.
Clinic selection
Consultation at multiple clinics
Comparison: It is important to receive counseling at multiple clinics and compare treatment costs and treatment details.
Check reputation: Check reviews and reputation to choose a clinic you can trust.
Utilization of online medical treatment
Convenience and cost: Using online medical consultations not only reduces the hassle and transportation costs of going to the hospital, but can also lower medical costs.
Use of supplements and over-the-counter medicines
Zinc and biotin supplements
Cost: Approximately 1,000 to 3,000 yen for one month
Summary: To maintain hair health, it is effective to take supplements containing zinc and biotin.
Use of over-the-counter medicines
Minoxidil products: In addition to Reup, there are other minoxidil products available over the counter that can be a cost-saving option.
Improving lifestyle habits
Review of meals
Ensuring nutritional balance: Eating a balanced diet will help maintain the health of your hair and increase the effectiveness of your treatment.
Use supplements: Take vitamin and mineral supplements as needed.
Stress management
Relaxation techniques: Stress can accelerate the progression of AGA, so reduce stress by meditating, doing yoga, or taking time for hobbies.
Moderate exercise: Moderate exercise increases blood circulation and provides necessary nutrients to hair follicles.
3. How to create a long-term treatment plan
Balance between initial cost and long-term cost
Initial investment: When considering a large initial investment such as hair transplant surgery, consider the long-term cost-effectiveness.
Ongoing costs: Set a reasonable budget by taking into account the ongoing costs of oral and topical medications.
Regular follow-up
Doctor’s diagnosis: See your doctor regularly to check the effectiveness of your treatment and adjust your treatment plan if necessary.
Confirmation of effectiveness: Check the progress of treatment and continue if it is effective, or consider other treatments if the effect is weak.
In conclusion
There are various options for AGA treatment, including oral medications, topical medications, auxiliary treatments, and hair transplant surgery, and each comes with a cost. In order to continue treatment over the long term, it is important to manage costs and set a reasonable budget. You can reduce costs in a variety of ways, including applying for insurance, using generic drugs, taking advantage of subscription discounts and campaigns, choosing a clinic, using supplements, and improving your lifestyle habits. By creating a long-term treatment plan and continuing appropriate treatment under the guidance of a specialist, you can prevent the progression of AGA and maintain healthy hair.
AGA treatment at Hiro Clinic
AGA (Androgenetic Alopecia) is a disease called male pattern baldness, which progresses if left untreated, so early treatment is necessary. The causes of AGA vary depending on the individual, but it is not a disease that cannot be treated. Hiro Clinic uses cutting-edge regenerative medicine technology to treat AGA. Our specialized doctors will suggest appropriate treatment methods tailored to each individual and will do their best to support your concerns.
