Finasteride and Minoxidil: A Complete Guide for Hair Loss Prevention
These two medications can slow or stop hair loss. Here is how they work, what to expect, and what the side effects really are.
Hair transplants move existing hair around. They do not stop future loss. For that, you need medication. Finasteride and minoxidil are the two most effective options.
How Finasteride Works
Finasteride blocks the enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT, the hormone that shrinks hair follicles in pattern baldness. Less DHT means slower hair loss.
Dosage: 1mg daily (oral tablet)
Results timeline: 3-6 months to stop loss, 6-12 months for visible regrowth
Success rate: 80-90% of users maintain their hair, 60% see some regrowth
Track Your Hair Loss Progress
Use our AI scanner to document your baseline before starting medication. Track changes over time with photo comparisons.
Start TrackingHow Minoxidil Works
Minoxidil widens blood vessels and increases blood flow to follicles. More blood flow means more nutrients and oxygen for hair growth.
Dosage: 5% solution or foam applied twice daily to the scalp
Results timeline: 4-6 months for visible changes
Success rate: 60-70% of users see some benefit
Side Effects
Finasteride: Sexual side effects occur in 2-3% of users. Most side effects resolve when stopping the medication.
Minoxidil: Scalp irritation, initial shedding (temporary), unwanted facial hair growth in women.
Using Both Together
Finasteride stops loss from the inside. Minoxidil stimulates growth from the outside. Combined, they work better than either alone.