Minoxidil & Finasteride: What to Expect
Minoxidil (for women's hair) and finasteride (for men's hair) are the two primary hair growth treatments offered through Verge. This guide explains how each works and what to expect from treatment.
Minoxidil (Women's Hair)
How It Works
Minoxidil is a topical or injectable treatment that increases blood flow to hair follicles, prolonging the active growth phase (anagen phase) and supporting thicker, healthier regrowth. It does not target the hormonal cause of hair loss—it works by stimulating follicle activity directly.
What to Expect
Hair growth treatments require patience. Results with minoxidil typically unfold over months:
Month 1–2: No visible change yet; the medication is working at the follicle level
Month 3–4: Some patients begin to notice reduced shedding or early regrowth
Month 4–6: More noticeable improvement in density and coverage for most patients
6 months+: Continued improvement with consistent use
An initial temporary increase in shedding (called a "shed phase") can happen in the first 4–6 weeks as the treatment resets follicle cycles. This is normal and not a sign the treatment isn't working.
Important Notes
Consistency is critical — missing doses or stopping treatment can reverse gains over time
Results require ongoing treatment — hair loss typically resumes if you stop
Follow your specific application instructions exactly
Finasteride (Men's Hair)
How It Works
Finasteride works by blocking the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the hormone primarily responsible for male-pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia). By reducing DHT levels, finasteride slows or stops hair loss and can promote regrowth in some patients.
What to Expect
Month 1–3: No visible change; the medication is reducing DHT at the follicle level
Month 3–6: Reduced shedding and early signs of stabilization for most patients
Month 6–12: Regrowth begins in some patients; continued reduction in loss
12 months+: Full assessment of treatment response—some patients see significant regrowth, others see stabilization
Finasteride is most effective when started before significant hair loss has occurred. It prevents further loss more reliably than it reverses existing loss.
Common Side Effects
Sexual side effects (decreased libido, erectile dysfunction) — reported in a minority of patients; typically reversible on discontinuation
Breast tenderness or mild enlargement (rare)
If you experience side effects, contact your clinical team through your patient portal. Do not stop taking finasteride without speaking to your provider first—sudden stopping can cause rapid hair shedding.
Finasteride is for men only. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not handle crushed or broken finasteride tablets, as DHT is important for fetal development.
General Hair Treatment Guidance
For both minoxidil and finasteride:
Results require months of consistent treatment—don't judge effectiveness before 6 months
Stopping treatment will likely reverse any gains over time
Contact your clinical team if you have questions about efficacy, side effects, or your dosing