Male pattern hair loss is the most common type of hair loss in men. Male pattern hair loss refers to the pattern of receding hairline on the crown. It’s common for men to experience it at some point in their lives. According to the American Hair Loss Association, 95% of hair loss is caused by male pattern hair loss in men. And 85% of men experience significant hair thinning by the time they’re 50.
This daunting change can cause a dramatic loss of confidence. It can immensely hurt a man’s self-esteem. This blow to confidence can be amplified when a man starts experiencing hair loss at an early age while the majority of other men still have a full head of hair.
Some men sure know how to make being bald look effortless, but it can be an absolute horror for others. It can be a dreadful process. Seeing those first signs of balding can be frightening. However, there are ways you can slow down the process of receding hairline and enjoy a full head of hair even in your later years.
How Does Finasteride Work?
One of the most common treatments for hair loss is finasteride. Finasteride is proven to benefit men with mild to moderate hair loss. Hair loss is largely a result of the activity of DHT (dihydrotestosterone) on the hair follicles. DHT causes a receptor in the hair follicle to get activated which reduces hair growth and shrinks the hair follicle. Finasteride works by stopping testosterone from being converted into DHT hence there is less amount of DHT in the scalp.
Even though it is a convenient DHT-blocking FDA approved prescription to help with male pattern hair loss, It doesn’t work overnight. it is not a magic wand that will cure baldness in an instant. You need to use it continuously and regularly for better results. Results will only appear after one or two years of treatment. However, you can see a visible change after four to six months.
Are There Any Risks of Side Effects?
Finasteride is a good treatment for hair loss and balding but it also has some side effects. Although these side effects are rare, a small number of men keep experiencing these effects even after cessation of treatment.
Men who use finasteride may experience different sexual side effects such as decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and ejaculatory dysfunction. In clinical trials, about 1.5% of men experienced such effects. Other rare side effects of finasteride are depression, breast tenderness, and testicular pain.
If you use finasteride and start experiencing one of these side effects you should consult your doctor for further instructions.
Conclusion
When it comes to preventing hair loss and balding, finasteride is one of the most effective treatments. Finasteride is shown to be 85% effective with hair regrowth within three months. So if you are starting to lose hair on top don’t worry at all. This article provides detailed information related to finasteride and hair loss, in hopes that it will help you look your best self.
