What Is Finasteride & How Does It Work?

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If you're new to the world of hair growth products, let's start with a quick introduction to Finasteride. This powerful ingredient belongs to a class of medications called 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors, which means it works by blocking the enzyme responsible for converting Testosterone into Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) which is a common cause of hair loss in men and women.

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So what's the big deal about DHT? DHT is often created in the body as a stress response which often collects in hair follicles and blocks any nutrients and essential growth vitamins from getting through and promoting growth. That means the normal growth cycle of hair follicles is shortened which eventually causes the hair to fall out. By reducing DHT levels in the scalp, Finasteride helps to slow down hair thinning and promote new hair growth.Finasteride isn't just for men. It has also shown promise as an effective treatment for certain types of hair loss in women.(1)

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Fertility Effects of Finasteride

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When it comes to choosing a hair growth product, it's natural to have concerns about potential side effects. One question that often arises is whether Finasteride can cause infertility. Some studies indicate that long-term use of high doses of Finasteride could lead to decreased sperm count or reduced sperm motility in men.(2) However, these effects are generally reversible upon discontinuation of the medication. At Happy Head we recommend that you only take hair growth medications if you and your partner are neither pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to become pregnant.

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It's important to note that not all men will experience fertility issues while using Finasteride for hair growth. The likelihood and severity of any potential side effects may vary from person to person. If you're considering using Finasteride and are concerned about its impact on fertility, it's always best to consult with your board-certified dermatologist before beginning any medication. They can provide personalized hair growth treatment plans based on your needs and help address any concerns you may have.

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Why should I choose Finasteride for Hair Growth?If you're experiencing hair loss and considering options for regrowth, it's important to weigh the potential side effects against the benefits. While Finasteride has been shown to be effective in promoting hair growth, it's also crucial to understand that there may be fertility implications associated with its use. To learn more about the potential benefits and side effects of Finasteride for men and women in hair growth solutions, see our article about Finasteride here. And if you’re interested in a FREE consultation with one of our board-certified dermatologists, start here.