What can you expect when taking a prescribed hair loss product? And how long does it take for the results to become evident? We’re sure you want the answers to multiple questions, so we’re here to help you understand what happens when taking Finasteride or Minoxidil.
Let’s look at the general timeline for these medications and how they manifest in men seeking to fight the signs of hair loss.
The Hair Loss Treatment Timeline
First, you should understand that every man is different and won’t see the effects of Minoxidil or Finasteride the same way, if at all. Around 80% of men with male pattern hair loss see positive results from taking the medications above, as their hair loss will slow or stop altogether. There’s no exact timeline for everyone because the science isn’t this precise, but the following may occur roughly during these periods.
Three Months
You’re unlikely to notice any slowed or stopped hair loss or thinning during this period, but you may spot that shedding has occurred; some men worry that this is an unwanted side effect of the treatment, but it is perfectly normal and means the treatment is working correctly. Shedding unwanted strands allows newer, healthier hair to grow in its place. Don’t be discouraged at the lack of progress so far, keep taking your prescribed medication and it will likely work its way into your system effectively.
Six Months
This is the point where you might start to notice more considerable progress. Perhaps you’ll see that the hair loss is no longer proceeding at the rate it was, if at all. Men frequently see thicker hair produced after around half a year, but don’t be discouraged if you haven’t spotted this; it could take a bit longer for some men to experience more voluminous strands appearing.
9-12 Months
Men typically see the full effects of Minoxidil or Finasteride between nine and twelve months, with hair loss no longer rampant and a thicker head of hair evident. If your medication still hasn’t worked after around a year, arrange another consultation with a hair loss specialist, and they’ll advise you on another action.
Beyond a Year
Although you’ve been taking Minoxidil or Finasteride for 12 months, you should maintain the use of the medication in the future; the initial symptoms of hair loss are likely to reappear if you don’t continue consuming or applying the prescribed medicines, possibly dragging you back to square one.
When you speak to a hair loss specialist, they will explain the most common steps you can expect, including rare side effects, for the most informed understanding. If you experience anything you believe is out of the ordinary, stop taking the medication, speak to a hair loss expert and your doctor, and the problems should subside soon.