Does Finasteride Regrow Hair? Understanding How It Works for Hair Loss and Hormones

Hair loss can be a frustrating and emotional experience for both men and women. One of the most commonly prescribed medications for androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss) is finasteride, but there’s often confusion around how it works and whether it actually regrows hair. In this article, we’ll explore what finasteride does, how effective it is for hair regrowth, and how it interacts with hormones like testosterone.

If you're dealing with hair loss related to low testosterone or other hormone imbalances, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may also be worth exploring alongside or instead of finasteride.

What Is Finasteride and How Does It Work?

Finasteride is a prescription medication that blocks an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) — a more potent androgen responsible for shrinking hair follicles in people genetically predisposed to pattern baldness.

By lowering DHT levels, finasteride helps slow down hair loss and may even promote regrowth of thinning hair, especially on the crown and mid-scalp. It is FDA-approved for male pattern baldness, and while commonly used by men, some doctors prescribe it off-label for women under careful monitoring.

Does Finasteride Regrow Hair?

Yes, finasteride can regrow hair, but results vary based on factors like age, genetics, and how early treatment begins. Clinical studies have shown that:

• Finasteride slows the progression of hair loss in up to 90% of men.
• Around 65% of users experience some degree of hair regrowth after one year.
• It’s most effective for regrowth on the crown of the head, with less effect at the hairline.

That said, finasteride is not a miracle cure. It works best when used consistently and early in the hair loss process. It may take several months before you notice results, and hair loss may resume if treatment is stopped.

How Long Does Finasteride Take to Work?

How long does finasteride take to work? Most patients begin to see noticeable results around the 3- to 6-month mark, but optimal effects are usually observed after 12 months of daily use. It’s important to be patient and not discontinue the medication too soon, as hair regrowth takes time.

Does Finasteride Lower Testosterone?

A common concern is: does finasteride lower testosterone? The answer is not exactly. Finasteride lowers DHT, which is derived from testosterone, but it doesn’t significantly reduce total testosterone levels. In fact, some studies show that testosterone levels may slightly increase as less of it is converted into DHT.

However, because it alters hormone metabolism, a small percentage of users may experience side effects like reduced libido or mood changes. These effects are typically rare and reversible upon discontinuation of the drug.

Finasteride and Hormonal Therapies: Can They Work Together?

For patients who are also exploring testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) to treat symptoms of low testosterone — such as fatigue, low sex drive, or muscle loss — finasteride can still be used to counteract hair loss caused by elevated DHT levels. This combination requires careful medical supervision, as TRT naturally increases DHT production, which finasteride then blocks.

At AlphaMD, we understand that hair loss, hormone balance, and overall well-being are deeply connected. Our licensed medical team helps both male and female patients create personalized treatment plans that consider the full hormonal picture.

Final Thoughts

Finasteride can be a powerful tool in the fight against hair loss, especially when used early and consistently. While it doesn’t work for everyone, many patients experience real improvements in hair density and scalp coverage over time. It also pairs well with hormone-based therapies for those dealing with low testosterone.

If you're curious about whether finasteride, TRT, or a combination of treatments is right for you, it’s worth speaking with a provider who understands the full scope of hormonal and dermatological care.