Finasteride is a commonly prescribed medication for male pattern baldness, aiming to slow hair loss and promote regrowth. Many individuals beginning this treatment observe an initial increase in hair shedding, known as finasteride shedding. This temporary phase can be concerning, but is a normal part of the process as the medication influences hair follicles.
Understanding Hair Shedding
Hair growth occurs in a continuous cycle in distinct phases. The anagen phase is the active growth period, during which hair follicles produce new hair, lasting 2 to 8 years for scalp hair. Following this is the catagen phase, a brief transitional period of about two weeks where hair growth slows and the follicle shrinks. The telogen phase is a resting stage that lasts around 2 to 3 months, where hair remains in the follicle but does not grow. Finally, the exogen phase releases hair, making way for new hair to begin the anagen phase.
Hair shedding is a natural and continuous process. People typically lose between 50 to 100 strands daily as part of this normal cycle. This shedding is essential for maintaining a healthy scalp and allowing new hair to grow. Seeing some hair fall out during washing or brushing is a regular occurrence and not usually a cause for concern.
Why Finasteride Causes Shedding
Finasteride works by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). High levels of DHT contribute to male pattern baldness by causing hair follicles to miniaturize, resulting in shorter, finer hair. By reducing DHT levels, finasteride helps to reverse this miniaturization, allowing follicles to produce healthier, thicker strands.
The shedding observed with finasteride use occurs as the medication resets the hair growth cycle. Finasteride prompts hair follicles in resting or regressing phases, or miniaturized hairs, to re-enter the active growth phase. This transition causes older, weaker hairs to shed, making room for new, stronger hair to grow. This temporary increase in hair fall indicates the medication initiates positive change in hair follicles.
Typical Duration of Finasteride Shedding
Finasteride-induced shedding commonly begins within 1 to 3 months of starting the medication. Some individuals might notice it as early as two weeks; for others, it becomes apparent around 2 to 3 months. During this period, it is not uncommon to experience an increased volume of hair shedding, sometimes double the normal 50-100 hairs per day.
The shedding phase is generally temporary and resolves within a few weeks to a few months. Many users report shedding stabilizes or decreases significantly within 2 to 3 months of consistent use. By 6 months, most individuals see a resolution of the initial shedding, and new, healthy hair growth should become noticeable. Continuing the medication as prescribed is important, as stopping treatment can disrupt progress and potentially reverse gains.
When to Consult a Doctor About Shedding
While some degree of shedding is a common and expected response to finasteride, certain situations warrant consultation. If the shedding appears unusually severe, persists significantly longer than the typical timeframe, e.g., beyond 6 months, it may be advisable to seek professional advice. A doctor or dermatologist can assess the situation to rule out other potential hair loss causes, as various factors beyond finasteride influence shedding.
Consulting a healthcare provider is recommended if other concerning symptoms accompany shedding, such as scalp irritation or unexpected side effects. They provide personalized guidance, monitor treatment progress, and determine if adjustments to the treatment plan are necessary. While patience is key for finasteride treatment, professional evaluation ensures prolonged or excessive shedding is properly addressed.