Pattern hair loss
Androgenetic alopecia follows a recognisable pattern and is driven largely by androgen sensitivity at the follicle. Other causes — thyroid disease, iron deficiency, telogen effluvium after illness — present differently and are worth ruling out before committing to long-term therapy.
What a provider evaluates
- Pattern, distribution and duration of loss
- Thyroid function and ferritin, which are common reversible contributors
- Recent illness, surgery or significant weight change
- Fertility intentions, which matter for finasteride
- Family history
What treatment may involve
- Oral or topical finasteride
- Topical or low-dose oral minoxidil
- A combination approach directed by your provider
- Investigation of another cause where the pattern does not fit
Whether any of these is appropriate is determined by a licensed provider after reviewing your history and laboratory results.
Medications a provider may consider
Finasteride
Finasteride is a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor used in androgenetic alopecia. Learn how it works and what a provider discusses before prescribing.
Minoxidil
Minoxidil is used in hair loss both topically and, off-label, at low oral doses. Learn the difference and what monitoring each requires.
Markers on this panel
What each marker measures and why your provider tracks it.
Questions about pattern hair loss
Finasteride or minoxidil for hair loss?
They work differently and are often used together. Finasteride reduces conversion of testosterone to DHT, addressing the hormonal driver of pattern hair loss. Minoxidil is a vasodilator applied topically or, off-label, taken at low oral doses. Finasteride carries considerations around fertility and mood; oral minoxidil requires blood-pressure monitoring. Benefit from either is maintained only while treatment continues.
How long before hair-loss treatment shows any change?
Hair grows slowly and cycles over months, so assessment of response is measured in months rather than weeks. Providers generally review at defined intervals rather than expecting early change. An initial increase in shedding after starting minoxidil is a recognised phase and is not a sign the treatment has failed. Photographic tracking at consistent intervals is more reliable than impression.