How Fast Does Finasteride Work?
Finasteride starts working immediately—but you won't see results right away. Here's a realistic timeline of what to expect.
Quick Answer
24 hours
DHT drops ~65%
3-6 months
Visible results begin
12 months
Peak results
Why Results Take Time
Finasteride works by blocking the enzyme that converts testosterone into DHT—the hormone that causes hair follicles to shrink and eventually stop producing hair. This happens almost immediately after your first dose.
But reducing DHT doesn't make hair instantly grow. Hair follows its own growth cycle, and each follicle needs time to recover from years of DHT damage, re-enter the growth phase, and produce visible hair. That's why you need patience: the drug is working even when you can't see results.
What the Research Shows
In a 10-year study, finasteride improved hair growth in 91.5% of men and prevented further hair loss in 99.1%. But these results don't happen overnight—they build steadily over months and years of consistent use.
Month-by-Month Timeline
Week 1: Working Internally
Finasteride reduces DHT levels by about 65% within 24 hours of your first dose. By day 3, it reaches consistent levels in your blood. You won't see any visible changes, but the drug is already protecting your hair follicles.
What you'll notice: Nothing visible yet. Don't worry—this is normal.
Months 1-2: The Shedding Phase
You may experience increased hair shedding during this time. This can feel alarming, but it's actually a positive sign—weak hairs are falling out to make room for new, healthier growth. This "dread shed" typically lasts 2-4 weeks.
What you'll notice: Possibly more hair in the shower or on your pillow. Don't panic—this is temporary.
Months 3-4: First Signs of Progress
This is when most men start to see initial results. Hair shedding typically slows or stops. You may notice less hair falling out in the shower. Some men see early regrowth, particularly around the hairline and temples.
What you'll notice: Reduced shedding. Possibly early signs of regrowth or thickening.
Month 6: Noticeable Improvement
By 6 months, results should be visible to you—and often to others. Hair appears fuller and denser. The rate of hair loss has significantly slowed or stopped. You may see regrowth in areas that were thinning.
What you'll notice: Visible improvement in hair density. Others may comment on your hair.
Months 9-12: Peak Results
This is when you'll see the full effect of finasteride. Research shows 14% improvement in hair count at 12 months. Hair should look noticeably fuller than when you started. This is a good time to take comparison photos.
What you'll notice: Maximum improvement. Compare photos to see your progress.
Year 2 and Beyond: Continued Benefits
Finasteride continues to work long-term. Studies show 16% improvement at 2 years (vs. 14% at 1 year). A 5-year study found 99.4% of men showed improvements. Over 80% maintained their hair over 5 years of treatment.
What you'll notice: Maintained or continued improvement. Hair loss stays at bay.
Results Summary
| Timeline | What's Happening | What You'll See |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | DHT drops ~65% | Nothing visible |
| Weeks 1-4 | Follicles begin recovery | Possible shedding |
| Month 3 | New growth starting | Less shedding, early regrowth |
| Month 6 | Significant improvement | Visible improvement |
| Month 12 | Peak effect | Full results visible |
| Year 2+ | Continued maintenance | Maintained/improved hair |
What If It's Not Working?
If you haven't seen any improvement after 12 months of consistent daily use, finasteride may not be effective for you. About 10-15% of men don't respond well to the medication.
Before giving up, consider:
- • Are you taking it daily? Skipping doses reduces effectiveness significantly.
- • Have you added minoxidil? Combination therapy is more effective than either treatment alone.
- • Did you take photos? It's hard to notice gradual changes. Compare photos from month 1 vs. month 12.
Even if finasteride hasn't regrown hair, it may have prevented further loss. Talk to your provider about next steps, which might include adding minoxidil or considering other treatments.
Tips for Best Results
Do
- ✓ Take it every day at the same time
- ✓ Be patient—give it 12 months
- ✓ Take photos monthly to track progress
- ✓ Consider adding minoxidil for better results
- ✓ Continue even after seeing results
Don't
- ✗ Skip doses or take it inconsistently
- ✗ Take extra pills if you miss a dose
- ✗ Stop because of early shedding
- ✗ Expect instant results
- ✗ Stop once you see improvement (hair loss will resume)
What Happens If You Stop?
Finasteride only works while you're taking it. If you stop:
- • DHT levels return to normal within about 14 days
- • Hair loss resumes where it left off
- • Regrown hair will gradually be lost within 12 months
Think of finasteride as maintenance therapy. It protects your hair as long as you take it, but the protection stops when you stop.
Ready to Start Finasteride?
The best time to start is before significant hair loss. Get a free online consultation today.
Get StartedThe Bottom Line
Finasteride starts working immediately—reducing DHT by 65% within 24 hours—but visible results take time. Most men see initial improvement around 3-4 months, noticeable results at 6 months, and peak effects at 12 months. The medication continues to work (and even improve) over years of use. Key to success: take it daily, be patient, and don't stop just because of early shedding. For best results, consider combining with minoxidil.