Still losing hair on finasteride?

Finasteride is adequate for most men in treating hair loss. However, for some individuals, the results may not meet their expectations. A Japanese study revealed that out of 2561 men, 87.1% experienced an overall effect on hair growth. Among these men, only 11.1% saw significant improvement, whereas 36.5% experienced moderate growth. Another 39.5% observed slight changes. Also, the longer men used finasteride, the more likely they would eventually see some hair growth.

So, not everybody gets a response to finasteride, and in most cases, we will not know why this is happening. But let’s delve a bit deeper into this topic.

Why do I not get a response to finasteride?

Men often lose more hair for the first few weeks after starting finasteride. This is because finasteride stimulates the hair follicle to produce new hair. Because of this, the hair follicle will often shed old or unhealthy hair to give way to new hair. After a few weeks, this hair loss will stop, and you will notice healthier-looking and thicker hair.

But if you keep losing hair for longer than just a few weeks, it could mean you do not get a response. In most cases, doctors cannot determine why this is happening.

There could be several reasons why you do not see a response to finasteride:

Some areas on your scalp are completely bald

You have got completely bald areas. This means no hair follicles are left for the finasteride to work on.

You have not taken finasteride long enough.

You may not have taken finasteride long enough to see noticeable results. It can take up to 6 or 9 months for some men to observe a difference in their hair growth after starting finasteride treatment. It’s essential to be patient and consistent with the medication to experience its full effects.

A lack of specific nutrients in your blood.

It’s important to mention that some men with iron or zinc deficiency can experience hair loss. Not getting enough nutrients can make hair thin and fall out. Eating a balanced diet with the right nutrients is important for healthy hair growth. If you have not had a blood test for a long time, we recommend you see your doctor and get a test.

A rare type of hair loss

Some types of hair loss can caused by your immune system, but this is very rare.

Hair loss from the immune system looks different from typical male pattern baldness. As the immune system attacks the hair follicles, it causes bald patches on the scalp.

Compared to that, male pattern baldness usually starts at the forehead and back of the head.

What can I do if I still lose hair on finasteride?

Try dutasteride

Dutasteride is another medication used to treat hair loss in men. It works by inhibiting the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that can contribute to hair loss.

A 2022 study in South Korea demonstrated that dutasteride was more effective than finasteride in treating hair loss. It does not seem to cause more side effects.

But dutasteride is still one of the newer drugs for hair loss. This means that studies are still lacking to ensure its effectiveness for hair loss after ten years or more.

Try finasteride as a cream or lotion.

Applying finasteride cream to the scalp can work just as well as taking finasteride tablets for hair loss. This method may work better for you, especially if you experience side effects from the finasteride tablets.

Minoxidil vs Finasteride

Minoxidil is a blood pressure medication that has a side effect of promoting hair growth. Hairloss creams and lotions commonly contain it to stimulate hair growth in specific areas. One study has indicated that Minoxidil is as effective as finasteride in treating hair loss.

Low-Level Red Light Laser

Low-level red light laser therapy is well-researched, and several studies have shown that it can improve hair density and thickness by up to 47%. Doctors consider this non-invasive treatment safe and effective for promoting hair growth in individuals experiencing hair loss. A big advantage is that you can use a simple laser cap at home. Please ensure that you buy an FDA-approved laser helmet that is safe and of high quality.

PRP Plasma

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy is a popular treatment for hair loss. This process involves taking a small amount of your blood. The doctor then concentrates the plasma.

After that, the doctor injects the plasma containing valuable growth factors into the scalp. The growth factors in the plasma help stimulate hair follicles, promote hair growth, and improve hair thickness. PRP therapy is safe and effective for treating hair loss. Many people have had good results with this treatment.

Stem cells for hair loss

Stem cell therapy can help with hair loss. It uses stem cells to help hair follicles grow and increase hair thickness. It also promotes hair growth. Stem cells can turn into various cells in the body, like hair follicle cells.

Doctors microneedle stem cells into the scalp to repair damaged hair follicles and promote the growth of new, healthy hair. Researchers need to conduct more studies to understand the effectiveness of stem cell therapy for hair loss. Early studies show promising results, suggesting it could be a new solution for people losing hair.

Should I consider a hair transplant?

Hair transplants are becoming increasingly effective, safe, and reliable solutions for hair loss. To get a hair transplant, consult an experienced specialist for optimal and safe results.

Book An Appointment With A Hairloss Doctor

For advice on hair loss treatments, book an appointment at Satini Cosmetic Clinic for comprehensive guidance and support. We can provide personalized recommendations and solutions for your hair loss concerns.

An open, randomized, comparative study of oral finasteride and 5% topical minoxidil in male androgenetic alopecia. Ercan Arca ¹, Gürol Açikgöz, Halis Bülent Taştan, Osman Köse, Zafer Kurumlu