Last updated on August 12, 2025
Hair loss is a common concern affecting a wide range of people, particularly men experiencing androgenetic alopecia, often referred to as male pattern baldness. Among the medical treatments available, finasteride has emerged as one of the most studied and prescribed oral medications for hair loss. But how effective is it, and what should you know before considering it?
This article provides an objective, evidence-based overview of finasteride, its mechanism, effectiveness, and safety considerations for those exploring treatment options.
What is Finasteride?
Finasteride is a prescription medication primarily used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and androgenetic alopecia. It works by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a hormone linked to hair follicle miniaturisation in genetically predisposed individuals, leading to progressive hair thinning over time.
In the context of hair loss, finasteride is typically prescribed in a 1 mg daily dose and is available in oral tablet form. It is approved in Australia for treating male pattern hair loss.
How Does Finasteride Work for Hair Loss?
Hair growth occurs in cycles, including growth (anagen), resting (telogen), and shedding (catagen) phases. In androgenetic alopecia, DHT shortens the growth phase and causes hair follicles to shrink, producing thinner and shorter hairs.
Finasteride reduces circulating DHT levels by approximately 60–70% in most men. This decrease helps slow the progression of hair follicle miniaturisation and, in many cases, allows for partial regrowth or stabilisation of hair density.
It is important to note that finasteride is not a cure for hair loss and must be taken continuously to maintain any benefits.
Does Finasteride Stop Hair Loss? What Does the Research Say?
Numerous studies have assessed the effectiveness of finasteride for male pattern hair loss:
- A pivotal 1998 study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology followed over 1,500 men taking 1 mg of finasteride daily. After two years, 83% of men taking the medication had no further hair loss, and 66% showed increased hair growth compared to placebo.
- A five-year study published in European Journal of Dermatology found that long-term use of finasteride resulted in sustained improvements in hair count and thickness, with continued hair growth benefits seen up to the five-year mark.
- Meta-analyses have confirmed finasteride’s ability to increase hair count and density compared to placebo, particularly in the vertex and mid-scalp regions. It is less effective in the frontal hairline.
While most studies focus on men, research on the use of finasteride in women is limited and remains off-label in many countries. Due to its hormonal action, finasteride is not recommended for use in women who are or may become pregnant.
How Soon Do Results Appear?
Finasteride typically takes several months to show visible changes. Many users report reduced hair shedding after three months, with measurable hair regrowth or thickening observed between 6 to 12 months.
Clinical studies suggest continued improvement can occur with long-term use. However, if discontinued, any benefits are generally lost within 6 to 12 months, and the hair loss process resumes.
Who Is Most Likely to Benefit?
Finasteride tends to be more effective in individuals who:
- Have early to moderate hair thinning
- Are under the age of 40
- Have active follicle miniaturisation but not complete baldness
- Use the medication consistently as prescribed
Finasteride is not suitable for those with scarring alopecia or other non-hormonal causes of hair loss. A proper medical evaluation is essential before beginning treatment.
Are There Side Effects From Finasteride?
Like any medication, finasteride can cause side effects, although they are uncommon in clinical trials. Reported side effects include:
- Decreased libido
- Erectile dysfunction
- Ejaculatory disorders
- Mood changes, including depression or anxiety
- Breast tenderness or enlargement
Most side effects are reversible upon stopping the medication, though in rare cases, symptoms may persist. In response to reported cases of post-finasteride syndrome, regulatory authorities in several countries, including Australia, recommend that prescribers discuss potential side effects with patients before initiating treatment.
Finasteride is also teratogenic, meaning it can cause harm to a developing male foetus. For this reason, women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not handle crushed or broken tablets.
Monitoring Your Health and Long-Term Use
Finasteride is generally considered safe for long-term use. However, regular medical follow-up is advisable to monitor for side effects and assess whether the treatment continues to be appropriate.
Some individuals may benefit from combining finasteride with other treatment options, such as topical therapies, but this should be done under the guidance of a qualified health professional.
Is Finasteride Safe for Everyone?
Finasteride is not recommended for:
- Children or adolescents
- Women of childbearing age
- People with a known hypersensitivity to the drug
- Individuals with certain hormonal conditions
For men considering finasteride, it’s important to discuss any personal or family history of prostate issues, depression, or fertility concerns with a healthcare provider before starting treatment.
In some cases, baseline blood tests (such as PSA levels) may be recommended before and during treatment, particularly for those also being monitored for prostate health.
Visit our doctor-led clinics in Sydney, Melbourne or Parramatta for a personalised assessment to learn whether finasteride is a suitable option for your hair loss concerns.
A Well-Studied Option for Male Pattern Hair Loss
Finasteride remains one of the most extensively studied treatments for male pattern hair loss, with evidence supporting its ability to slow progression and maintain hair density in many men. It is most effective when started early and used continuously.
As with all medical treatments, individual responses can vary. A thorough medical assessment is key to determining whether finasteride is appropriate and safe. People experiencing hair thinning or loss should get an in-person evaluation and personalised advice from a qualified health professional at our hair loss clinics in Parramatta, Melbourne, or Sydney.
FAQs
How much finasteride should I take for hair loss?
The standard dose for treating male pattern hair loss is 1 mg of finasteride once daily. This dosage has been shown in clinical trials to be effective in slowing hair loss and improving hair density. It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions and never exceed the recommended dose. Our doctor-led clinics provide comprehensive hair loss consultations to ensure safe, personalised care – book an appointment with Hair Doctors clinics in Parramatta, Melbourne, or Sydney today.
Does finasteride stop hair loss completely?
Finasteride can significantly slow the progression of hair loss and may increase hair thickness in many individuals, particularly in the crown and mid-scalp areas. However, it does not cure hair loss or work for everyone. Results vary, and ongoing use is necessary to maintain any benefits. To find out if finasteride is suitable for you, visit our Sydney clinic for a hair loss assessment by an experienced doctor.
Is finasteride effective for hairline recession?
Finasteride is most effective in the crown and mid-scalp areas. Its effectiveness at treating frontal hairline recession is less consistent, though some individuals do report improvement. A thorough medical assessment can determine whether it’s likely to benefit your specific pattern of hair loss. Hair Doctors offers advanced diagnostic tools to assess your scalp and hair loss pattern – book a consultation today at our doctor-led hair loss clinics in Australia.
Can women use finasteride for hair loss?
Finasteride is not approved for use in women with hair loss in Australia and is contraindicated during pregnancy due to the risk of birth defects. Some specialists may use it off-label in postmenopausal women under strict supervision, but this requires individual risk assessment. Our clinics focus on safe, evidence-based hair loss treatments for both men and women. Book a consultation at our Australian hair loss clinics to explore your options.
What happens if I stop taking finasteride?
If you stop taking finasteride, any benefits gained are usually lost within 6 to 12 months, and hair loss will typically resume. This is because the hormone DHT returns to previous levels, allowing the hair follicles to continue miniaturising. Our Melbourne, Sydney and Parramatta clinics provide long-term treatment planning and scalp monitoring – book a professional assessment with Hair Doctors to manage your hair loss journey.
About The Author
Dr. Ossman Ashraf
In 2009, Dr Oz graduated from the University of Dundee, UK with a qualification in Men’s Health and Aesthetic Medicine. He then furthered his qualifications in medical education and is currently the Medical Advisor/Educator for MOSH, Australia’s leading online Men’s Health platform. He is accredited by the London Hair Restoration Academy and specialises in using the most up-to-date micro FUE extraction and DHI implantation techniques for transplant surgery.
Hussein B
After years of research, calling and consulting with different hair transplant surgeons across Sydney, I can definitely say Hair Doctors Australia is the best in the business. If you’re after qualified hair transplant surgeons who actually put their patients best interests first, look no further.
Samuel Levi
From the first initial consult, to my first day of surgery I can not highly recommend the team here at the Bondi clinic enough. So professional, and friendly, plus answered every question and worry I had, that was running through my mind. It made the entire process seamless. I’ll be recommending them whole heartedly to anyone who was in a similar situation to me, and wanting a hair transplant.
