Should You Use Finasteride After a Hair Transplant?

What is Finasteride?

Finasteride is a synthetic medication (FDA-approved) that belongs to a class of drugs known as 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors (5-ARIs). Many surgeons recommend it to treat conditions related to hair loss. The medicine is available as both a topical treatment and oral tablet.

See Also: FUE Hair Transplant

What are the Benefits of Finasteride Post-Hair Transplant?

Numerous studies suggest that Finasteride is the perfect topical solution post-hair transplant. Since it boasts recovery and improves hair regrowth, thus brings unavoidable benefits.

A few of pros of the Finasteride includes:

• Enhances transplant results
• Stimulates native hair growth
• Halts hair loss progression
• Preserves donor hair
• Improves hair density and texture
• Reduces risk of shock loss
• Minimizes risk of hair thinning

How Effective Is Finasteride?

According to clinical studies daily intake of Finasteride 1mg has shown to decrease DHT levels in the scalp by approximately 64%. Further, it is most effective for mild to moderate hair loss and not so effective for receding hairlines.

A recent study indicated the following results of finasteride:

• Hair counts: Men taking finasteride saw a 10% increase in hair counts after the first year.
• Hair regrowth: 65% of participants experienced a “substantial” increase in hair growth.
• Hair loss progression: 86% of participants stopped losing hair.

How Does Finasteride Work?

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a hormone that is the main cause of hair shedding in most individuals. DHT is a potent byproduct of testosterone conversion in the body, leading to hair thinning and loss.

Finasteride halts the hair loss by inhibiting the creation of DHT. Here is a step-by-step guide to better understand the working of finasteride.

Step 1: Testosterone Conversion

Testosterone is a hormone produced by the testes in men. It converts into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase. This conversion occurs in various tissues, including the scalp, prostate gland, and hair follicles.

Step 2: Finasteride Blocks Conversion

Finasteride is a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor. It works by binding to the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme, preventing it from converting testosterone into DHT. This blockage reduces DHT production in the body.

Step 3: DHT Levels Decrease

With the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme inhibited, DHT levels decrease significantly. This reduction in DHT levels has a profound impact on the body, particularly in the scalp and prostate gland.

Step 4: Hair Growth and Prostate Shrinkage

Lower DHT levels promote hair growth by increasing the length of the anagen phase (the active growth phase of hair growth). This leads to thicker, healthier-looking hair.

Step 5: Therapeutic Effects

The combined effects of finasteride lead to improved hair growth, reduced hair loss, and alleviated symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

See Also: Hair Transplant for Women

How Long Does It Take Finasteride To Work?

Since hair transplant surgery takes time to provide desired results, finasteride also needs time. Likewise, the length of time depends on the severity of hair loss.

Finasteride typically starts working within 3-4 months, with its full effects appearing after around 1 year of daily use.

Here are milestones of hair growth stages for Finasteride users:

• Day 1: Finasteride starts to take effect by blocking DHT production, lowering DHT levels, and building up in your system.
• Week 1 to 3 Months: Medicine may initially cause temporary hair loss as it “resets” the hair growth cycle, but this is a sign that the treatment is working.
• Months 3 – 4: Hair loss slows down and you may experience regrowth.
• Months 9 – 12: Experience the full impact of Finasteride. Even if the medicine has not increased thickness, you should observe a reduction in hair loss.

How Can I Get Better Results With Finasteride?

Patients can improve the working of finasteride by adopting certain precautions. Here are guidelines to get the maximum from this medication.

• Take it daily and do not miss doses
• Combine with other hair loss treatments
• Limit exposure to stress
• Avoid harsh hair products
• Massage your donor area
• Use biotin pills

Is Finasteride the only Option?

Luckily, there are numerous alternatives to Finasteride. Experts have outlined the following options for patients suffering from hair shedding.

• Minoxidil (Rogaine): A topical solution applied directly to the scalp to stimulate hair growth and slow down hair loss.
• Dutasteride (Avodart): An oral medication that blocks both type 1 and type 2 5-alpha-reductase enzymes.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): A non-invasive treatment using low-level laser or light-emitting diodes to stimulate hair growth.
• Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: A treatment where experts inject platelet-rich plasma into the scalp to stimulate hair growth.
• Biotin: A B-complex vitamin essential for hair growth, maintenance, and strengthening.
• Natural Supplements: Other supplements like fish oil, horsetail, and keratin may also promote hair growth.

What are Contraindications to Finasteride?

It is essential to consult with your healthcare professional before taking finasteride to discuss potential contraindications and ensure safe use.

Finasteride is generally not right for people who:

• Have an age of 18 and above
• Are pregnant
• Trying to conceive a child
• Have liver problems
• Have Bladder issues
• Are allergic to Finasteride
• Are experiencing prostate cancer

Does Finasteride Have Side Effects?

Like other medications, Finasteride does have certain side effects. Understanding these will place you in a better position to make an informed decision.

Here are possible complications of topical finasteride:

• Sexual dysfunction (2.1-3.8 percent)
• Breast tenderness or enlargement
• Skin rash
• Allergic reactions
• Swelling of lips and face
• Dizziness

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do you need Finasteride after a hair transplant?

Although Finasteride can be beneficial, it is not always necessary. Many surgeons recommend it for patients with androgenetic alopecia.

Will transplanted hair grow without Finasteride?

Yes, transplanted hair can grow without Finasteride, and many patients still see significant improvement without it.

Do you have to take hair loss pills after a hair transplant?

Yes, you may need to take hair loss pills after a hair transplant to maintain the results.

Can you still go bald on finasteride?

Yes, it is possible to continue to lose hair while taking finasteride.

Can I use finasteride before my hair transplant?

Yes, you can take finasteride before a hair transplant to prevent further balding. Surgeons may also delay hair transplant to slow down the rate of hair loss.