Male pattern hair loss can feel confusing and frustrating. You notice thinning at the temples or crown, but it’s not always clear why it’s happening or what can realistically be done about it.
One of the most commonly prescribed treatments for male pattern baldness is finasteride, but how does it actually work? Understanding what’s happening beneath the surface can help you make an informed decision about whether treatment is right for you.
What causes male pattern hair loss?
Male pattern hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is driven by a combination of genetics and hormones. The key hormone involved is dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
DHT is a by-product of testosterone. In men who are genetically predisposed to hair loss, DHT binds to hair follicles on the scalp and gradually causes them to shrink. This process, called miniaturisation, leads to:
- Thinner hair strands
- Shorter hair growth cycles
- Slower regrowth
- Eventually, complete follicle dormancy
Over time, affected follicles stop producing visible hair altogether.
What is finasteride and what does it do?
Finasteride is a prescription medication that targets the hormonal cause of hair loss rather than the hair itself.
It works by blocking the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which is responsible for converting testosterone into DHT. By reducing DHT levels in the scalp and bloodstream, finasteride helps protect hair follicles from ongoing damage.
Clinical studies show that finasteride can reduce scalp DHT levels by up to 60 to 70 per cent, which is enough to significantly slow or stop further hair loss in many men.
Why does reducing DHT help protect hair follicles?
When DHT levels are lowered:
- Hair follicles are no longer under constant hormonal attack
- The miniaturisation process slows or stops
- Existing hairs are more likely to stay thicker for longer
- Hair loss progression is reduced or stabilised
It’s important to understand that finasteride is primarily a preventative treatment. Its main benefit is helping you keep the hair you already have, rather than regrowing large areas of lost hair.
Does finasteride regrow hair?
In some men, finasteride can lead to modest regrowth, particularly in areas that have thinned recently. This happens because follicles that haven’t yet fully shut down may recover once DHT pressure is reduced.
However, finasteride works best when started early, before hair follicles are permanently inactive. Areas that have been bald for many years are less likely to respond. This is why early assessment and treatment can make a significant difference to long-term results.
How long does finasteride take to work?
Finasteride doesn’t produce overnight results. Hair growth follows a slow biological cycle, so patience is essential.
Most men can expect:
- Zero to three months: No visible change, or mild shedding as hair cycles reset
- Three to six months: Hair loss stabilisation; shedding may reduce
- Six to 12 months: Thicker appearance and potential regrowth in responsive areas
Consistency is important: taking finasteride daily as prescribed gives it the best chance to work effectively.
Is finasteride a cure for hair loss?
Finasteride is not a permanent cure. Its benefits depend on continued use.
If treatment is stopped, DHT levels return to normal and hair loss typically resumes within a few months. For this reason, finasteride is best thought of as a long-term maintenance treatment rather than a one-off solution.
Many men choose to stay on treatment long-term to preserve their results and maintain confidence. It’s worth noting that cheap finasteride is available to buy online, which can make the costs more manageable compared with buying branded versions.
Who is finasteride most suitable for?
Finasteride is commonly prescribed for adult men experiencing:
- Receding hairlines
- Thinning at the crown
- Early to moderate male pattern baldness
It may not be suitable for everyone, which is why a medical assessment is always required before starting treatment.
Making an informed choice
Understanding how finasteride works allows you to weigh the benefits and considerations more confidently.
By addressing the hormonal cause of hair loss, finasteride offers many men an effective way to slow or stop further thinning, especially when started early and taken consistently.
If you’re concerned about hair loss and want to explore whether treatment could be appropriate for you, a confidential online consultation with a qualified clinician can help you decide your next step, with no pressure to proceed.
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