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.

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