Hair loss is a concern that affects millions of men across the UK, often starting as early as their twenties. If you’re noticing thinning at the crown, a receding hairline, or overall reduction in volume, you may be considering treatments to slow or even reverse the process. Two of the most well-known medications are minoxidil and finasteride—but when comparing minoxidil vs finasteride, one of the most common questions is: which one works faster?

At Simply Meds Direct, we help hundreds of patients every month start and maintain safe and effective hair loss treatment. In this article, we’ll explore the timelines you can realistically expect with each medication, how they work, and whether faster always means better.

Understanding How They Work

Before diving into timelines, it’s important to understand what each treatment does and how they work differently.

Finasteride is an oral tablet taken once daily. It works by blocking an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is the hormone largely responsible for shrinking hair follicles in men with male pattern baldness. By reducing DHT levels, finasteride slows the hair loss process and allows the follicles to remain active.

Minoxidil, on the other hand, is a topical treatment (usually in liquid or foam form) applied directly to the scalp. It stimulates blood flow to the hair follicles and prolongs the growth (anagen) phase of the hair cycle. It doesn’t address DHT, but it does help hair grow thicker and longer during its active cycle.

Because the mechanisms differ, so do the results—and the timelines.

What to Expect in the First 3 Months

Finasteride (0–3 months):

Most men will not see noticeable changes in the first three months. In fact, some may continue to experience shedding, which can feel discouraging. However, this is often a sign that the treatment is working, as older, miniaturised hairs are pushed out to make way for new growth.

Minoxidil (0–3 months):

Minoxidil may cause an initial “shedding phase” around weeks 2 to 6. This happens as the follicles reset into a new growth cycle. Some users report seeing very fine hairs beginning to appear at thinning areas around the three-month mark, but this is not guaranteed.

What to Expect After 6 Months

Finasteride (3–6 months):

By month four or five, you may begin to see visible improvement. Hair shedding slows noticeably, and the density at the crown or hairline might begin to stabilise. In some cases, men begin seeing new growth at this stage, though it may be thin and light in colour at first.

Minoxidil (3–6 months):

Minoxidil users typically start seeing the full effect of the treatment during this window. Hair regrowth becomes more noticeable, especially in the crown area. Hairs that previously fell out easily may become thicker and stay in place longer. However, progress can vary depending on how consistently the treatment has been applied.

What to Expect After 12 Months

Finasteride (6–12 months):

After one year of consistent use, many men see significant improvement in hair density and reduced hair loss. For those who respond well, hairlines may begin to fill in, and the hair on the crown may regain a more youthful appearance. Around 80–90% of users experience some level of success—whether that’s halting further hair loss or encouraging regrowth.

Minoxidil (6–12 months):

Continued use of minoxidil can lead to further improvements, especially in areas of thinning rather than complete baldness. Results can plateau around the one-year mark, but maintaining treatment is key to holding onto progress. Stopping minoxidil often leads to the return of hair loss within a few months.

So, Which Works Faster?

In terms of visible regrowth, minoxidil may offer earlier cosmetic results for some users, particularly in the crown area. It begins stimulating the hair follicles sooner due to its direct action on the scalp.

However, finasteride tends to produce more lasting results over time by targeting the root hormonal cause of male pattern hair loss. While it may take longer to show, finasteride often provides better long-term preservation of existing hair.

Can You Use Both Together?

Yes—and in many cases, combining minoxidil and finasteride gives the best possible outcome. One addresses the cause (DHT), and the other stimulates growth. Using both can increase the chances of seeing faster and more substantial improvement.

At Simply Meds Direct, we offer tailored treatment plans and guidance on using both medications safely and effectively.

Start Your Hair Loss Treatment Today

Whether you want fast results or long-term prevention, understanding the differences between minoxidil vs finasteride is the first step. Both are clinically proven to work—and both are more effective when started early.

Speak to one of our pharmacists today or explore our online prescription service to find the right hair loss solution for you. With discreet delivery and expert support, Simply Meds Direct makes hair loss treatment simple and secure.

This blog was written on behalf of Simply Meds Direct by Pharmacy Mentor.