Finasteride plays a crucial role in stopping hair loss and encouraging regrowth. However, many men experience shedding in the early stages of treatment, which can be concerning. If you’ve noticed increased hair loss since starting Finasteride, don’t worry—it’s often a natural and temporary part of the process. Here’s everything you need to know.
Why Does Finasteride Cause Shedding?
To understand why shedding happens, it’s important to know how Finasteride works. Your hair follicles go through a growth cycle, just like your skin regenerates over time. Each cycle consists of four key phases:
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Anagen (growth phase) – Active hair growth
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Catagen (transition phase) – Hair detaches from the blood supply
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Telogen (resting phase) – Hair is dormant before falling out
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Exogen (shedding phase) – Old hair falls out, making way for new growth
On average, people naturally shed 50–100 hairs per day as part of this cycle. Finasteride works by blocking DHT, the hormone responsible for shrinking hair follicles and causing hair loss. When DHT is reduced, hair follicles that were previously dormant or shrinking enter the growth phase, pushing out old, weaker hairs to make room for healthier strands. This shedding is temporary and a sign that the treatment is working.
When Does Finasteride Shedding Occur?
Most men experience shedding within the first few months of starting Finasteride. Some notice it even earlier, as weaker hairs are replaced by stronger, healthier strands. While seeing extra hair fall out can be alarming, it’s actually a positive sign—it means your hair follicles are responding to treatment.
Typically, shedding subsides within a month or two, and from there, you should start noticing thicker, healthier hair growth. The key to success is consistency—continue taking Finasteride daily, as stopping or skipping doses could interrupt the process.
Are There Other Causes of Shedding?
While Finasteride shedding is expected, other factors can contribute to temporary hair loss, including:
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Stress – High stress levels can trigger telogen effluvium, a temporary shedding condition.
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Diet & Nutrition – A lack of essential vitamins like biotin, iron, and vitamin D can weaken hair.
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Harsh Styling – Excessive brushing, tight hairstyles, and chemical treatments can lead to breakage.
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Illness or Medication – Certain illnesses, medications, or recovery from infections can cause temporary hair loss.
The good news? Most shedding—whether from Finasteride or other causes—is temporary.
The Bottom Line: Don’t Panic
Shedding can be unsettling, but it’s an important part of the hair regrowth journey. Finasteride helps shift your follicles back into the growth phase, which can cause a temporary increase in hair loss before new, stronger hair replaces it. Stick with your treatment, be patient, and trust the process.
Ready to take control of your hair loss? Explore our treatment plans today and start your journey toward fuller, healthier hair.
All of our blog articles are reviewed by our Medical Director before publication.
