How To Apply Topical Finasteride The Right Way & When

Do you have questions about how to apply topical finasteride the right way and when to apply it? This article’s got your back and more.

Whether it’s by spray or pipette, this medication works wonders, improves hair loss, and restores the follicles to their previous state. It’s ideal if you can’t embrace the bald look, and oral tablets and an invasive solution like a hair transplant aren’t for you.

Read on to know more about the right application of topical finasteride.

How & When to Apply Topical Finasteride

Finasteride is a clinically-proven ingredient that inhibits an enzyme called 5-Alpha Reductase. This process prevents testosterone from converting into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), notably stimulating hair regrowth on the scalp.

While raw finasteride and its oral form are the only ones FDA-approved, topical finasteride is no less effective than its oral counterpart. There are also lesser risks of side effects.

So, how much topical finasteride to apply? The standard amount is 1 mL per session. While a higher dose won’t harm you, it’s still important to be mindful of the possible side effects that come with it. So, talk to your doctor and get a prescribed dosage, or settle for the standard amount.

Once you know what you need, follow the steps below.

Tap It On

The amount of finasteride you use will depend on your condition and prescription.

Shake the bottle. Thoroughly mix the finasteride and other components in the medication container before application.
Take the amount needed. A finasteride pipette has a more measured and controlled dispensing, but you can use a dropper if included in the bottle. If it’s a finasteride spray, follow the number of sprays indicated in the instructions.
Tap it on your scalp. If using a pipette, don’t squeeze the applicator. Tap it directly on the scalp so that the skin absorbs the finasteride instead of the hair.

Spread and Pat

Should you rub in topical finasteride? Yes, you should. While the liquid might roll down your scalp, it doesn’t spread evenly by itself.

Massage your scalp. After rubbing the finasteride until evenly distributed, massage the scalp in circular motions.
Pat it on. It helps with absorption as it pushes the product deeper into the skin, compared to rubbing it on.

Wait to Dry

As a liquid form, finasteride can get on anywhere. The skin easily absorbs it, so keep it away from people who shouldn’t be in contact with it.

Let it sit. Once evenly distributed on your problematic area, don’t go anywhere until it’s dry and set on your scalp.
Clean up. Make sure to clean any mess you’ve made during the application process and wash your hands afterward.

Repeat

Finasteride works immediately, but don’t worry if you don’t see results just as quickly. Be patient; results vary for everyone.

While some might see the change in as short as four months, others take much longer than that. It depends on how well your body takes the medication and the condition you’re trying to fix. But expect your bald patches or head to start budding hair and thickening soon enough.

Most studies suggest applying twice daily, one in the morning and another before bedtime. However, other studies state that once daily is more effective at decreasing DHT levels, even when using the standard amount per session.

Who Should and Shouldn’t Use Finasteride

Finasteride is commonly used to treat androgenic alopecia, also known as male pattern baldness. While it usually affects men over 50, young men suffering from this condition aren’t uncommon.

There are various reasons for balding problems. But whether it’s due to age or stress, either way, you’re losing hair. Finasteride helps with regrowth. But before you pour it all over your head, calm down first and put that bottle down.

Understand that finasteride is not for everyone. First, ensure you’re over 18, not pregnant, and not allergic to it. Defects of newborns and severe allergic reactions like swelling and trouble breathing are probably worse than a receding hairline or a bald patch.

To check for its safety, do a patch test, and observe your skin’s reaction for at least a week. If nothing happens, you’re generally good to go. For more certainty, consult with your doctor.

Wrapping Up

Hair loss is a natural part of aging, but it can also happen to some extent for men in the younger age bracket. Topical finasteride is an ideal medication for hair regrowth if you’re looking for an over-the-counter solution that isn’t taken orally or requires surgery.

The results aren’t instantaneous, but consistency and patience are the ingredients for you to get the desired results you’re looking for.