Hair Loss Medication: Benefits and Side Effects

What is the truth about hair loss medications? What are the side effects.

Hair loss medication has become one of the most common first-line treatments for pattern baldness. For many patients it works — but it is not risk-free. Understanding both the clinical benefits and the potential side effects is essential before starting treatment.

Most people only research treatments once their hair loss is advanced. In reality, the earlier you seek medical advice, the more options you typically have. Shedding 50–100 hairs per day is normal, but progressive thinning or recession may indicate androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness). A GP or dermatologist should always be your first consultation point.

The Two Main Medications for Hair Loss

Doctors typically prescribe one or both of the following:

1. Minoxidil (Topical Treatment)

Applied directly to the scalp once or twice daily.

How it works

Improves blood flow to follicles
Prolongs the growth (anagen) phase
Thickens miniaturised hairs

Typical results

Slows hair loss in most men
Moderate regrowth in some users
Results visible after 3–6 months

Common side effects

Scalp irritation
Dryness or flaking
Initial shedding phase

Minoxidil is considered low risk because it acts locally on the scalp rather than hormonally.

2. Finasteride (Oral Medication)

Often prescribed under the brand name Propecia.

How it works
Finasteride blocks the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, preventing testosterone converting into DHT — the hormone responsible for follicle miniaturisation in male pattern baldness.

Typical results

Stops hair loss in ~80–90% of men
Regrowth in a significant percentage
Most effective in crown & mid-scalp

Finasteride Side Effects

While many patients take the drug without issue, Finasteride has attracted increasing attention due to systemic (whole-body) hormonal effects.

Reported side effects include:

Sexual & Reproductive

Reduced libido
Erectile dysfunction
Abnormal ejaculation
Male infertility
Testicular discomfort

Physical

Breast tenderness or swelling
Swelling in hands or feet
Headaches
Dizziness
Skin rash or allergic reaction

Psychological

Low mood or depression
Brain fog (reported in some cases)

Most users experience no significant side effects, but the possibility must be understood before treatment.

Can Side Effects Continue After Stopping?

A small number of patients report persistent symptoms after discontinuing the medication — sometimes referred to as Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS). Research is ongoing, but reported long-term effects have included:

Persistent erectile dysfunction
Ongoing libido changes
Depression or anxiety symptoms

These cases appear uncommon, yet they are the primary reason doctors emphasise informed consent before prescribing.

Is Hair Loss Medication Worth It?

For many men, yes — especially in early-stage hair loss. Clinically, Finasteride remains one of the most effective treatments available for stabilising male pattern baldness.

However, it is a lifestyle decision, not just a cosmetic one.

You must consider:

You may need to take it indefinitely
Results reverse after stopping
There is a small but real risk of systemic side effects

Always discuss your medical history with a qualified doctor before starting treatment.

A Non-Drug Alternative: Scalp Micropigmentation

For patients who want predictable results without medication or surgery, Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) provides a medical-grade cosmetic solution.

What it does

First, it replicates natural hair follicles using carefully matched pigment.
In addition, it creates the appearance of a fuller scalp or a clean, intentionally shaved head.
Moreover, it is effective for thinning areas, receding hairlines, and even visible scars.

Key advantages

Importantly, it requires no hormones.
Likewise, there is no need for ongoing medication.
As a result, you get immediate visual density after treatment.
Finally, the results are long-lasting, making it a low-maintenance solution over time.

Final Advice

Hair loss medications can be highly effective — but they are medical treatments that alter biological processes. Some patients benefit enormously, while others prefer a non-pharmaceutical approach.

The correct decision is not universal — it depends on your risk tolerance, stage of hair loss, and long-term goals.

If you want aesthetic improvement without systemic medication, modern cosmetic solutions now offer realistic, permanent-looking alternatives.

📍 Visit Skalp UK
📞 Book your consultation today
💬 Discover how scalp micropigmentation can restore your appearance—without surgery or medication

The Truth About Hair Loss Medications — Benefits, Risks & Side Effects