Finasteride is the generic (non-branded) version, and is also referred to as Propecia, which is the branded version. The active ingredients remain the same, and in theory, they are both as good as each other. In the UK, finasteride is not available to buy over the counter and is only prescribed to treat hair loss in men. You need a prescription that has been issued by a doctor or pharmacist, after a consultation has been carried out. This is to ensure that finasteride is safe for you to take. Studies show that finasteride is an effective mens hair loss treatment, proving to be successful in over 80% of those that use it.
Finasteride belongs to a class of drugs called 5 alpha-reductase inhibitors. It works by blocking the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT levels are responsible for shrinking hair follicles. Shrunken follicles cause slow and weak hair growth. This results in thin hair which is brittle and eventually falls out. By blocking the conversion of testosterone to DHT, it allows hair follicles to come back to life. This results in stronger and thicker hair with prolonged use.
In most cases, finasteride will help to slow the natural balding process, and may also help to regrow hair. Studies show that 83% of those using finasteride stop losing hair, with 66% of users from the trial experiencing hair regrowth. The overall result of taking finasteride is a fuller and thicker head of hair.
Finasteride blocks the overall conversion of testosterone to DHT. So, in theory, finasteride will also help to regrow your hairline and can potentially have a positive effect on a receding hairline. Medical research backs this up, with clinical trials demonstrating that finasteride increases hair growth in those experiencing frontal hair loss around the hair line.
For most, finasteride will help to reverse the balding process in around 90% of men. Whether it’s slowing the rate at which hair is lost, helping hair to regrow, or both.
It will take around 3 to 4 months before you start to see any results from taking finasteride. For some men, this may be slightly longer depending on the extent of hair loss. In fact, it’s common for finasteride to worsen hair loss within the first few weeks. This is known as hair shedding, and it’s actually a good sign that finasteride is starting to work. Finasteride causes older hairs to fall out mid-cycle, and prepares for newer, stronger strands of hair to grow.
At around the 6 month to 9 month period, you should start to see noticeable effects from finasteride. After 1 year of treatment, the results should be noticeable to others. If you haven’t noticed any positive results from finasteride after 12 months, you should see your doctor or pharmacist for advice. It is unlikely that finasteride will work for you if it hasn’t done so after one year.
It is important to take finasteride every day without any breaks. Finasteride has a short half life of around 8 hours. This means that finasteride will only stay in your system for around 16 hours, so continuous dosing is important to get the best out of your treatment.
If you stop taking finasteride, the natural balding process will resume, and you will lose any results gained. It is important to note that finasteride does not permanently stop hair loss and results can take time.
Before starting treatment it is important to consider the following:
Below are some “before and after” pictures and the results you can expect to see from using finasteride:
For optimal results, it is recommended to take 1mg of Finasteride daily at a consistent time. Missing doses or discontinuing the regimen can reduce its effectiveness and may cause regression in hair thickness and hairline improvement.
Massaging your scalp daily can enhance blood flow, ensuring that hair follicles receive ample nutrients. Studies indicate that regular massages can stimulate hair growth.
Topical minoxidil, also known as Regaine, is applied directly to the scalp and stimulates hair growth from the route. Combining minoxidil and finasteride will increase the likelihood of seeing good results.
Taking supplements specifically designed for hair loss can aid in fostering hair growth and preventing further loss. Essential nutrients for hair growth include biotin, iron, vitamin B, and zinc.
Finasteride has a high success rate, with only a small number of users experiencing side effects. Whilst finasteride starts to work immediately, it will take 3-4 months before you start to notice results, with definitive results visible after one year.
Evidence and research clearly shows that finasteride has a positive impact and can reverse hair loss, when comparing hair before and after treatment. The key is to be patient and persistent. If you are interested in trying finasteride you can start a free online consultation with Chemist Click. Our qualified pharmacists use a tailored approach to determine the best hair loss treatment according to individual circumstances and needs.
Whilst all of our content is written and reviewed by healthcare professionals, it is not intended to be substituted for or used as medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, please speak to your doctor.
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