Finasteride is a prescription medication used to manage male pattern baldness. This article explores how finasteride works and its effectiveness in promoting hair thickening.
How Finasteride Works
Finasteride targets an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase. This enzyme converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a primary contributor to male pattern hair loss.
In individuals susceptible to male pattern baldness, DHT miniaturizes hair follicles, causing strands to become progressively thinner. Finasteride reduces DHT levels in the scalp by approximately 60-70%, lessening its impact on hair follicles.
Does It Thicken Hair?
Finasteride contributes to hair thickening by reversing the miniaturization process, allowing follicles to produce thicker, longer, and more pigmented hair strands. Studies show measurable improvements in hair count and hair shaft diameter. For instance, clinical trials reported an average gain of 107 hairs in a specific scalp area after one year of treatment.
Individuals begin to observe initial changes within three to six months of consistent daily use. More noticeable results, including significant increases in hair count and thickness, become apparent around the 12-month mark. Some studies indicate that after one year, men using finasteride showed a significant increase in hair count in the frontal scalp.
The extent of hair thickening varies among individuals. While effective for many men with androgenic alopecia, results are not universal. Its primary action is to stabilize hair loss and promote regrowth, particularly on the crown.
Important Considerations for Use
Finasteride is a prescription medication, often recognized by brand names such as Propecia and Proscar, though generic finasteride is also widely available. For the treatment of male pattern hair loss, the typical recommended dosage is 1 milligram (mg) taken orally once daily. It is approved for use exclusively in men diagnosed with androgenic alopecia.
Finasteride can be associated with side effects, although these are generally uncommon. The most frequently reported mild side effects include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and ejaculation disorders. These effects are typically mild and may subside as the body adjusts to the medication.
While rare, more serious side effects can occur, such as breast pain, lumps, nipple discharge, or other breast changes. Consulting a healthcare professional before starting treatment is important to discuss individual suitability, potential benefits, and risks. A medical professional can provide guidance and monitor any concerns throughout the treatment period.
What Happens After Stopping Treatment
The benefits of finasteride for hair thickening are sustained only as long as the medication is taken consistently. Finasteride works by continuously reducing DHT levels, and if treatment is discontinued, the body’s production of DHT will return to its previous levels.
When finasteride is stopped, the effects of DHT on hair follicles will resume. Any hair that has thickened or regrown due to the medication will likely be lost, and hair loss will typically resume its previous pattern within six to twelve months. Therefore, maintaining the hair benefits from finasteride generally requires a continuous, long-term commitment to the treatment.