Do Finasteride and Minoxidil regrow a receding hairline?

Finasteride and Minoxidil are used by millions of men throughout the world and are included in the Sons’ treatment plans. Both these medications have plenty of scientific backing, with the potential to block the disheartening and damaging effects of a receding hairline. But the question still remains - do Finasteride and Minoxidil really regrow a receding hairline? 

Finasteride 

To put it simply - everyone is different. Whether it’s your fingerprint or the colour of your hair, your body and mind are totally unique in one way or another. That’s why the question of whether Finasteride can regrow the hairline is such a difficult one to answer. 

Finasteride works by blocking production of the hormone DHT, which can cause permanent damage to your hair follicles if you have a sensitivity to it. One of the best ways to think about Finasteride is as a shield stopping further hair loss, as opposed to a way of regrowing your hairline. However,there’s still a good chance to get some regrowth. 

This study from 1999 found that two-thirds of men taking Finasteride consistently saw their hair loss actively reverse. While these results are undeniably impressive, it’s still important to remember that regrowing your hairline using Finasteride is not guaranteed and varies among men.

Ultimately, your chances of success rely heavily on which stage of the Norwood Scale you take action at. Those who have clearly had a receding hairline for years will find it more difficult to make a positive difference to their hairline than those who have spotted recession early. That’s why spotting those early signs is so crucial. Remember - while you may not experience the results you wanted after your treatment, the odds are on your side.

Minoxidil

While Finasteride can actively block DHT from damaging your hair follicles, Minoxidil works by dilating blood vessels and improving the blood flow to your scalp. With more blood flowing to your scalp, hair follicles are supplied with the right amount of nutrients and oxygen they need to encourage revitalisation. When taken consistently over a year, Minoxidil can put a brake on your receding hairline.

But does Minoxidil regrow the hairline? Like Finasteride, the answer’s complicated. While there are studies that show that Minoxidil application can stop a receding hairline, there is still a lack of scientific evidence to suggest it encourages hair growth. However, a study in 2002 did find that a small portion of men using Minoxidil did experience hair growth. 

While Minoxidil and Finasteride can work individually, when used together you give yourself the best chance of stopping your receding hairline, as well as potentially encouraging hair growth. Take a look through our treatments today and find a plan that suits your hair.

All of our blog articles are reviewed by our Medical Director before publication.