Finasteride and Shedding: Why it happens, how long it lasts and cycles EXPLAINED

If you face hair shedding with Finasteride, you are on the right page. You may be thinking that you are stuck in a catch-22 situation. A medicine for managing hair loss is causing shedding.

Fortunately, the good news is that shedding is a temporary reaction and stops after a while. Let’s understand more about this.

Does Finasteride cause hair shedding?

Yes, Finasteride may cause shedding for some people, especially in the first couple of months. Experts believe it is a positive sign and suggests that the medicine is working. It may also mean that the older damaged hairs are making a place for the new ones.

All in all, experiencing shedding is normal and usually stops within a few weeks or months of using the medicine.

Does Finasteride cause hair loss at first?

As discussed before, yes, Finasteride may cause hair loss at first. But the hair loss is temporary.

However, some other causes may also cause shedding, including:

• Chronic stress
• Certain medications
• Long-standing conditions
• Extreme malnutrition

How do you know if Finasteride is working?

Most people start to see the difference after three to four months of using the medicine. You’ll be able to see the regrowth of hair, and your hair may appear thicker. Others may be able to notice the hair growth after six months.

For those with male pattern baldness, hair spends less time in the resting phase before shedding for those with male pattern baldness. It may take about six months for visible hair growth, allowing the appearance of fuller and thicker head hair.

Why does Finasteride cause hair shedding?

Finasteride starts when you start Finasteride in any form. The medicine works by preventing the male hormone testosterone from converting into DHT.

Because of this, the hair follicles in the resting phase start to grow. This means that hair starts falling faster than normal, causing them to shed.

You may notice shedding between three to six months of treatment and may last around two weeks. This is a sign that the medicine is working for you.

What are the common Finasteride shedding cycles?

Let’s have a look at the common Finasteride shedding cycles:

• Shedding after 2 weeks: Some people may have it, but it is less likely.
• Shedding after 2 months: This is the most common phase where you may notice shedding.
• Shedding after 3 months: This is the most common phase where you may notice shedding. However, during this phase, you may also notice new hair growth. The bald patch starts filling up.
• Shedding after 8 months: The hair loss due to the medicine should usually stop by this time. You may notice newer and healthier hair.
• Shedding after 18 months: The hair loss due to the medicine should usually stop by this time. There is a more noticeable improvement in hair growth.

How long does Finasteride Shedding last?

As we discussed before, the shedding may last for about two weeks. However, along with this, you will notice new hair. So, don’t stop Finasteride before consulting your doctor. You may lose the new hair that grew during the treatment.

If you are on the treatment, you should take one tablet of Finasteride at the same time every day. Stopping it in between will reduce the level of the medicine between the doses, reducing its effectiveness.