If you’ve noticed your hairline receding or hair thinning on the crown, you're not alone. Male pattern baldness affects around 50% of men by age 50. 1 The good news is that there are effective hair loss treatments for men that can stop hair loss and even regrow hair.
Finasteride is a popular once-daily pill that works by addressing the root hormonal cause of male pattern baldness. In fact, studies show that a whopping 80% of men experience noticeable hair regrowth by using finasteride. 2
In this article, we'll explore how finasteride works to treat male pattern baldness. We'll take a closer look at the typical finasteride results timeline, so you know what to expect. We'll also discuss whether combining finasteride with minoxidil can further boost hair regrowth.
What is Male Pattern Hair Loss?
Male pattern baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is a common cause of hair loss in men. This type of progressive hair thinning starts at the temples and hairline, moving across the crown and mid-scalp. Up to half of all men experience noticeable hair loss by age 50 due to this condition. 1
What causes male pattern baldness in the first place? There are a few key factors at play:
- DHT: A hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT) binds to receptors in hair follicles, causing them to shrink over time. This makes the follicles produce less and less hair as they get smaller. All men make DHT, but some men's follicles are more sensitive to it. Genetics determine your DHT levels and sensitivity.
- Age: Although DHT levels often decrease with age, hair loss tends to worsen over time. Male pattern baldness is a progressive condition leading to more hair loss if left untreated. 3
The key is to start treatment before excessive hair loss occurs. Early intervention in male pattern baldness can aid in preserving existing hair and potentially slowing down further hair loss. 1
The good news is that today's hair loss treatments for men are effective and easy to use. Options like finasteride pills and minoxidil solutions can stop hair loss and even help regrow hair. Talk to your dermatologist about which science-backed treatments are right for your degree of hair loss.
How Finasteride Works
Hair loss is a concern for many men, but fortunately, there are effective treatments available. One of the most popular hair loss treatment for men is finasteride. In fact, this med was FDA-approved way back in 1992, and it remains one of the most effective options on the market today. 4
So, how exactly does finasteride work to combat hair loss? The key lies in its ability to block the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that is a byproduct of testosterone. DHT is known to gradually shrink and weaken hair follicles, which can lead to thinning hair and eventual baldness. 4
While DHT plays an important role in early male development and puberty, it can become problematic for those who are genetically predisposed to hair loss. This is because:
- Hair follicles in balding areas of the scalp have been weakened over time by long-term exposure to DHT.
- Scalp tissue in balding areas tends to contain higher levels of DHT compared to hair-covered areas. 4
This is where finasteride comes in. By inhibiting an enzyme called Type II 5a-reductase, which converts testosterone into DHT, finasteride can reduce DHT levels throughout the body, including in the scalp. This hair loss treatment for men tackles the problem at its hormonal source and can help to strengthen hair follicles and promote hair growth. 4
It’s important to note that finasteride is only FDA-approved as a hair loss treatment for men. Due to its effects on DHT, it may cause birth defects if taken by women who are pregnant. 4
How Finasteride Became a Leading Hair Loss Treatment for Men
Finasteride results have been impressive in clinical trials. One notable study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology followed men who took 1 milligram of finasteride daily for two years. In the beginning, participants had an average of only 876 hairs per square inch of scalp. But, after taking the med, they experienced noticeable improvements. The following is the finasteride results timeline:
- One year on finasteride: Participants had grown 107 more hairs per square inch.
- Two years on finasteride: Participants had gained an average of 138 more hairs per square inch compared to baseline. 5
In addition to the measurable gains in hair regrowth, the men in the finasteride study reported other positive effects:
- Improved hair growth
- Improved hair appearance
- Increased hair thickness 5
What to Expect: Typical Finasteride Results
According to the FDA, you can see finasteride results after taking the med daily for three months. But, if you want more pronounced results, you need to stay patient and consistent with your treatment.
In fact, a two-year study showed that hair count improved over time as participants took 1 mg of finasteride every day. 6
- Year 1: Participants experienced a 14% increase in hair count.
- Year 2: Hair count increased by 16%. 6
It's important to understand that the longer you use finasteride consistently, the better the results. So, if you're looking to maintain the benefits, you need to keep taking the medication. If you stop the treatment, you'll start losing hair again within 12 months. 1
Overall, finasteride is a reliable hair loss treatment for men, but patience is key to achieving the desired results. So, stay consistent with your treatment, and you'll soon be on your way to a thicker and fuller head of hair.
Finasteride and Minoxidil: Combining Popular Hair Loss Treatments for Men
Two of the most popular hair loss treatments for men are finasteride and minoxidil. Both medications have been approved by the FDA and have been shown to be effective on their own. However, recent studies suggest that combining the two may produce even better results.
Finasteride and minoxidil work in different ways to promote hair growth.
- Finasteride blocks the production of dihydrotestosterone or DHT, the hormone responsible for hair loss in men.
- Minoxidil increases blood flow to hair follicles and stimulates new growth. 2
By using these medications together, you're tackling hair loss through multiple mechanisms, leading to stronger regrowth.
In a study involving 450 male participants, researchers compared the effects of using finasteride and minoxidil separately versus using them together. The participants were divided into three groups, with one group receiving topical minoxidil 5%, another group receiving oral finasteride 1mg daily, and a third group receiving a combination of both. 2
The results were clear: all three groups saw improvements in hair regrowth, but the combination group had the best outcomes.
- Finasteride results: 5% of men saw regrowth.
- Minoxidil results: 59% of men saw hair regrowth.
- Combination group results:1% of men saw regrowth. 2
The data clearly shows that combining finasteride and minoxidil provides the most effective hair loss treatment for men. If you're concerned about thinning hair or receding hairline, talk to your doctor about starting this dual regimen.
Conclusion
When it comes to hair loss treatments for men, finasteride is a leading choice. This oral tablet tackles hair loss at its hormonal source by blocking the enzyme that converts testosterone into DHT, which damages hair follicles.
While the timeline for finasteride results varies, most men experience noticeable improvements in hair thickness, reduced shedding, and slowed receding hairlines. Numerous clinical trials have demonstrated the effectiveness of finasteride as a hair loss treatment for men.
If you’re looking to regrow hair, talk to your doctor about finasteride. They can evaluate your symptoms and medical history to determine if this med is right for you.
The content in this article is intended for informational purposes only. This website does not provide medical advice. In all circumstances, you should always seek the advice of your physician and/or other qualified health professionals(s) for drug, medical conditions, or treatment advice. The content provided on this website is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
