Finasteride is a widely used medication for male pattern baldness. When starting treatment, many individuals experience an initial period of increased hair shedding. This temporary phenomenon, known as “finasteride shedding,” is a recognized part of the process. Understanding its cause and duration can help manage expectations.
Why Shedding Occurs
Shedding when starting finasteride relates to the hair’s natural growth cycle. Hair follicles cycle through phases: anagen (growth), catagen (transition), telogen (resting), and exogen (shedding). Finasteride works by reducing dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that causes hair follicles to shrink and hair to thin.
By lowering DHT, finasteride encourages hair follicles to shift from the resting (telogen) phase back into the active growth (anagen) phase. This transition pushes out older, weaker hairs to make way for new, healthier strands. This increased hair fall indicates the medication is positively influencing the hair growth cycle.
Typical Shedding Duration
The initial shedding phase with finasteride typically begins within the first few weeks to two or three months of starting the medication. While intense shedding might last a couple of weeks, noticeable shedding can extend for a few months. For most individuals, this temporary hair loss resolves within a few months, often by the six-month mark.
The amount of hair shed can vary, but an increase from the usual 50 to 100 hairs per day is common. Consistent daily use of the medication is important during this time, as stopping treatment can disrupt progress and potentially worsen hair loss.
Beyond the Initial Shed
After the initial shedding period subsides, individuals typically begin to observe the beneficial effects of finasteride. Improvements in hair density and a reduction in overall hair loss may start to become apparent around three to six months of consistent use. The full effects, such as noticeable hair regrowth and thickening of existing hair, usually take longer, often becoming visible after 12 to 18 months of continuous treatment.
New hair growth may initially appear as finer strands, which can gradually strengthen and thicken over time. A long-term study indicated that over 99% of men using finasteride experienced no further progression of their hair loss over a decade.
When to Consult a Doctor
While initial shedding is a common response to finasteride, consult a healthcare professional in certain circumstances. If shedding is unusually severe or persists significantly beyond the typical few months, particularly past six months without improvement, seeking medical advice is appropriate. This consultation can help rule out other potential causes of hair loss or address concerns about the medication’s effectiveness.
If shedding is accompanied by other concerning symptoms or doubts about the medication’s suitability, discuss these with a doctor. A healthcare provider can assess individual progress, offer reassurance, and provide guidance on next steps, including exploring alternative or complementary treatment options if necessary.