How Long Does Finasteride Take To Work: Efficacy Timeline
Finasteride (1mg tablets) is a prescription treatment for male pattern hair loss. Understand when to expect results from this DHT-blocking medication.
Key Takeaways
- Initial effects: DHT reduction begins within 24 hours
- First visible changes: 3-6 months of consistent use
- Peak results: Typically seen at 12-18 months
- Maintenance: Continued use required to sustain results
- Effectiveness: 83% of men see improved hair growth in clinical trials
Finasteride treats male pattern baldness by targeting the root cause of hair loss. Understanding the timeline helps set realistic expectations for treatment results.
How Finasteride Works for Hair Loss
Finasteride treats male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia) by targeting the root cause:
Biological Mechanism
- DHT Blockade: Inhibits 5α-reductase enzyme (Type II), preventing testosterone conversion to dihydrotestosterone (DHT)
- Follicle Protection: Reduces DHT levels in scalp by ~60%, preventing further miniaturisation of hair follicles
- Regrowth Potential: Allows follicles to recover and produce thicker hairs during anagen (growth) phase
Finasteride Results Timeline
0-24 Hours
Biochemical Effect: DHT levels begin decreasing within hours of first dose
1-3 Months
Early Changes: Reduced hair shedding may be noticed
3-6 Months
Visible Improvement: First signs of regrowth/thickening at crown and mid-scalp
6-12 Months
Significant Progress: Noticeable density improvement in before/after photos
12-18 Months
Peak Results: Maximum hair count improvement achieved (typically +12% from baseline)
How Effective Is Finasteride?
| Study Duration | Results | Patient Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| 6 months | Reduced hair loss | 86% of men |
| 12 months | Visible regrowth | 65% of men |
| 24 months | Increased hair count | 83% of men |
| 5 years | Maintained/improved coverage | 72% of men |
Realistic Expectations
- Best responders: Men under 40 with recent hair loss (2-5 years)
- Moderate results: Slowed loss with some regrowth at vertex
- Limited results: Advanced Norwood VI-VII may see only maintenance
Factors Affecting Finasteride Results
Positive Indicators
- Younger age (under 35)
- Early-stage hair loss (Norwood II-III)
- Larger areas of miniaturised (thinning) rather than completely bald areas
- Consistent daily use without missed doses
Limiting Factors
- Long-standing baldness (>5 years)
- Advanced Norwood scale (V-VII)
- Concurrent health conditions (thyroid disorders, iron deficiency)
- Smoking (reduces scalp blood flow)
Potential Side Effects of Finasteride
Common Side Effects (affect 1-10% of users)
- Decreased libido (1.8%)
- Erectile dysfunction (1.3%)
- Reduced semen volume (1.2%)
Less Common Effects
- Breast tenderness/enlargement (0.5%)
- Skin rash (0.2%)
- Testicular pain (rare)
Important Notes
- Side effects typically resolve after stopping medication
- No increased risk of prostate cancer (reduces risk by 25%)
- Not detectable in semen (safe for partners)
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Finasteride work for receding hairline?
Finasteride is most effective for crown/vertex hair loss. While it may slow temporal recession, frontal hairline typically shows less regrowth than the crown area.
What happens if I stop taking Finasteride?
Any gained hair will be lost within 6-12 months as DHT levels return to normal. Continued use is necessary to maintain results.
Can Finasteride cause permanent side effects?
The MHRA states that sexual side effects persist after stopping in <1% of cases (post-finasteride syndrome). Most men return to normal within months of discontinuation.
Does Finasteride work for women?
No - Finasteride 1mg is not licensed for female hair loss. Women of childbearing age should avoid handling crushed tablets due to pregnancy risks.
Can I take Finasteride every other day?
Daily dosing is most effective. While DHT remains suppressed for ~3 days after a dose, consistent daily 1mg doses provide optimal follicle protection.
Considering Finasteride for Hair Loss?
If you're experiencing male pattern hair loss, our UK-registered doctors can help determine if Finasteride is appropriate for your condition through a confidential online consultation.
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Medical Content Manager
Nabeel is a co-founder and medical content manager of Chemist Doctor. He works closely with our medical team to ensure the information is accurate and up-to-date.
Medical Doctor
Dr. Feroz is a GMC-registered doctor and a medical reviewer at Chemist Doctor. He oversees acute condition and urgent care guidance.
Medical Director
Usman is a co-founder and medical director of Chemist Doctor. He leads the organisation's strategic vision, bridging clinical and operational priorities.
Review Date: 27 October 2025
Next Review: 30 April 2026
Published on: 27 October 2025
Last Updated: 28 October 2025
