Patient consulting with board-certified dermatologist about finasteride treatment at DSI Hair in Algonquin, IL

Finasteride for Hair Loss in Algonquin, IL - FDA-Approved Treatment for Men

Clinically Proven DHT Blocker

Medical Hair Restoration

Treatment Type:Oral Medication

FDA-Approved:Yes (1997)

Dosage:1mg daily

Results Timeline:3-6 months

introduction

At DSI Hair in Algonquin, IL, Dr. Vic Khanna brings 25+ years of dermatology expertise and Northwestern clinical instruction to every finasteride consultation. Alongside Dr. Lauren Boshnick, a Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic-trained dermatologist, our team provides evidence-based prescription management tailored to your hair loss pattern and medical history.

Hair loss affects over 50 million men in the United States, yet most never seek treatment from a specialist who understands the underlying science. Finasteride changes that equation.

Table of contents

01 About 02 The Science 03 What We Treat 04 Benefits 05 Why Us 06 Compare 07 Results

08 Treatment 09 What to Expect 10 Safety 11 Pricing 12 FAQs 13 References

The Challenge

Why Hair Loss Progresses Without Treatment

Understanding DHT-Driven Loss

Male pattern baldness — androgenetic alopecia — is a progressive condition driven by dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This hormone miniaturizes hair follicles over time, shortening the growth cycle until follicles produce only fine, vellus hairs or stop producing hair entirely. Without intervention, the Norwood scale advances predictably: receding hairline gives way to crown thinning, eventually leaving only a horseshoe-shaped fringe of permanent hair.

Finasteride targets the root cause by blocking the enzyme 5-alpha reductase type II, which converts testosterone into DHT. By reducing scalp DHT levels by approximately 60-70%, finasteride halts miniaturization and allows affected follicles to recover. Clinical trials demonstrate that 83% of men maintain their existing hair, while 66% experience measurable regrowth within two years. As part of a comprehensive hair loss treatment plan at DSI Hair, finasteride provides the pharmaceutical foundation for lasting results.

Before and after comparison showing hair density improvement with finasteride treatment at DSI Hair

Finasteride 1mg tablet and prescription information at DSI Hair dermatology clinic in Algonquin

Treatment Timeline

Daily Commitment

One 1mg tablet per day

Shedding Phase

Weeks 2-8 (temporary, signals response)

First Signs

3-4 months (reduced shedding)

Visible Regrowth

6-12 months (peak results at 1-2 years)

Maintenance

Ongoing daily use required

Understanding Your Treatment

What Is Finasteride?

FDA-Approved 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitor

Finasteride is an FDA-approved oral medication (brand name Propecia) that treats male pattern baldness by selectively inhibiting the 5-alpha reductase type II enzyme. This enzyme is responsible for converting testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) — the androgen directly responsible for follicular miniaturization in genetically susceptible men. By reducing circulating DHT levels by approximately 60-70% and scalp DHT by up to 64%, finasteride effectively slows and often reverses the hair loss process.

Originally developed as a 5mg dose (Proscar) for benign prostatic hyperplasia, researchers discovered its hair-preserving properties during clinical trials. The FDA approved the 1mg dose specifically for androgenetic alopecia in 1997. Unlike topical treatments that work on blood flow or follicle stimulation, finasteride addresses the hormonal mechanism driving hair loss at its source. The medication is most effective in the vertex and mid-scalp regions, with meaningful but somewhat reduced efficacy along the frontal hairline. When combined with minoxidil, studies show synergistic results that exceed either treatment alone.

Male Pattern Baldness

Addresses the primary hormonal cause of androgenetic alopecia in men

Receding Hairline

Slows frontal recession by reducing DHT damage to temporal follicles

Crown Thinning

Most effective region for regrowth — 66% of men see improvement at vertex

Early-Stage Hair Loss

Best outcomes when started at Norwood II-IV before follicles are permanently lost

Diffuse Thinning

Stabilizes progressive miniaturization across broader scalp areas

Hair Loss Progression Prevention

Significantly slows or halts ongoing hair loss by blocking DHT, helping maintain existing density long-term

Why Finasteride Works

Benefits of Finasteride

Proven Clinical Results

Patient discussing finasteride benefits and treatment expectations with DSI Hair dermatologist

01

FDA-Approved Efficacy

83% of men maintain hair and 66% achieve regrowth in two-year clinical trials
02

Targets Root Cause

Reduces scalp DHT by up to 64%, addressing the hormonal driver of hair loss
03

Simple Daily Routine

One small tablet per day — no messy topical applications or clinic visits required
04

Synergistic Potential

Combines with minoxidil and PRP for enhanced results exceeding monotherapy
05

Well-Studied Safety

Over 25 years of clinical data and millions of prescriptions worldwide

Treatment	Mechanism	Time	Results	Duration	Downtime	Best For
Finasteride (1mg)	Blocks DHT via 5-alpha reductase type II inhibition	3-12 months	83% maintenance, 66% regrowth	Ongoing daily use	None	Men with early to moderate androgenetic alopecia
Minoxidil (Topical)	Vasodilation increases follicular blood flow and prolongs anagen phase	4-6 months	30-40% increase in hair count	Ongoing twice-daily use	None	Men and women with diffuse thinning
PRP Hair Restoration	Platelet growth factors stimulate dormant follicles and angiogenesis	3-6 months per series	Improved density and thickness in 70%+ patients	3-4 sessions, then maintenance	Mild scalp tenderness 24-48 hrs	Patients seeking non-pharmaceutical enhancement

Finasteride

Real Patient Outcomes

Real Results

Finasteride results vary by individual, but clinical studies consistently show significant improvement. Most patients at DSI Hair notice reduced shedding within 3 months and visible regrowth by 6-12 months. Peak results typically appear at 1-2 years of consistent daily use. Our board-certified dermatologists document your progress with standardized photography at each follow-up visit.

View All

Confident male patient evaluating finasteride candidacy with DSI Hair dermatologist

Is Finasteride Right for You?

Who Is a Good Candidate for Finasteride?

Candidacy and Contraindications

Finasteride is most effective when prescribed to the right patient at the right stage of hair loss. During your consultation at DSI Hair, Dr. Khanna or Dr. Boshnick will evaluate your Norwood classification, family history, and overall health to determine whether finasteride is your optimal treatment path.

Ideal Candidates for Finasteride

Men aged 18-65 experiencing early to moderate androgenetic alopecia (Norwood II-V)
Patients with active miniaturization confirmed by dermoscopy or trichoscopy
Men committed to daily long-term medication adherence
Those seeking to preserve existing hair while stimulating regrowth
Patients who want a non-surgical first-line treatment before considering PRP for stronger results

Who Should Avoid Finasteride

Women of childbearing age (finasteride causes fetal abnormalities — FDA Category X)
Men with known hypersensitivity to finasteride or any inactive ingredient
Patients with liver disease that may impair drug metabolism
Men planning to donate blood should wait at least one month after discontinuation
Individuals with a history of mood disorders should discuss risk-benefit analysis with their dermatologist

All finasteride prescriptions at DSI Hair include baseline lab work when indicated and regular monitoring to ensure safety and efficacy throughout your treatment.

Your Experience

What Your Finasteride Treatment Looks Like

Step-by-Step with Your Dermatologist

Consultation

Dr. Khanna examines your scalp with dermoscopy, classifies your hair loss on the Norwood scale, and reviews your medical history to confirm finasteride candidacy.

Prescription

Dr. Khanna prescribes the FDA-approved 1mg daily dose, discusses potential side effects, and orders baseline lab work if indicated by your health profile.

Treatment Plan

Dr. Boshnick may recommend combining finasteride with minoxidil or PRP therapy for a multi-modal approach tailored to your specific loss pattern.

Follow-Up Monitoring

Dr. Khanna schedules standardized photography and dermoscopy check-ins at 3, 6, and 12 months to track your follicular response and adjust treatment.

Safety Information

Side Effects & Safety Profile

Finasteride has been prescribed to millions of men worldwide since 1997, with a well-characterized safety profile supported by over two decades of post-market surveillance. The most commonly reported side effects occur in approximately 2% of men and include decreased libido, erectile difficulty, and reduced ejaculate volume. These effects are typically mild and reversible upon discontinuation.

In the pivotal clinical trial (PLESS study), the difference in sexual side effect rates between finasteride and placebo was less than 2 percentage points. The nocebo effect — where awareness of potential side effects increases their perceived occurrence — has been documented in multiple studies. A 2019 meta-analysis confirmed that side effect rates are significantly higher in patients who were informed of risks versus those who were not.

Rare but reported effects include breast tenderness or enlargement (gynecomastia) in less than 0.5% of patients, and mood changes. Men should report any persistent symptoms to Dr. Khanna promptly. Women who are or may become pregnant must not handle crushed or broken finasteride tablets due to risk of birth defects in male fetuses. PSA levels may decrease by approximately 50% — inform all healthcare providers that you take finasteride before prostate screening.

Investment

Finasteride Cost in Algonquin, IL

Affordable Hair Loss Prevention

Finasteride is one of the most cost-effective hair loss treatments available. As a generic medication — the Propecia patent expired in 2013 — prices have decreased significantly, making long-term treatment accessible for most patients.

At DSI Hair, your finasteride cost includes the initial dermatology consultation with scalp examination and Norwood classification, your personalized prescription, and scheduled follow-up monitoring. Many insurance plans cover dermatology consultations, though the medication itself is typically an out-of-pocket expense.

Generic finasteride 1mg typically costs $10-30 per month at most pharmacies, with 90-day supplies offering additional savings. This compares favorably to topical minoxidil ($20-50/month) and is substantially less than surgical options. Dr. Khanna can discuss whether combining finasteride with other treatments like PRP for stronger results provides the best value for your specific hair loss pattern.

To discuss your treatment options and get an accurate cost estimate, call DSI Hair at (844) 307-7546 to schedule your consultation.

Modern DSI Hair clinic interior in Algonquin, IL with advanced dermatology consultation room

Dermatologist-Prescribed

Board-certified specialists evaluate your hair loss pattern, not algorithms

Comprehensive Monitoring

Regular follow-ups track progress and adjust treatment as needed

Multi-Modal Approach

Finasteride integrated with PRP, minoxidil, and transplant options

Evidence-Based Protocols

Treatment plans grounded in peer-reviewed research and clinical experience

Patient consulting with dermatologist about minoxidil for hair loss at DSI Hair in Algonquin, IL

01 Does finasteride actually regrow hair?

Yes. In the landmark five-year clinical trial, 66% of men taking finasteride 1mg experienced measurable hair regrowth, while 83% maintained their existing hair compared to only 35% in the placebo group. Regrowth is most pronounced at the vertex (crown), with moderate improvement along the frontal hairline. Results require 6-12 months of daily use to become visible, with peak density typically reached at 1-2 years.

02 What are the side effects of finasteride?

The most reported side effects — decreased libido, erectile changes, and reduced ejaculate volume — occur in approximately 2% of men, which was less than 2 percentage points higher than placebo in clinical trials. These effects are typically mild and resolve upon discontinuation. Rare effects include breast tenderness (under 0.5%) and mood changes. Our dermatologists monitor all patients and adjust treatment if any concerns arise.

03 How long does finasteride take to work?

Most patients notice reduced shedding within 3 months. Visible improvement in hair density typically appears between 6-12 months of consistent daily use. Peak results occur at 1-2 years. A temporary increase in shedding during weeks 2-8 is normal and actually indicates the medication is working — old miniaturized hairs are being replaced by thicker terminal hairs. Patience and consistency are essential.

04 Can women take finasteride?

Finasteride is FDA-approved only for men. It is strictly contraindicated in women who are or may become pregnant (FDA Category X) because it can cause birth defects in male fetuses. Some dermatologists prescribe finasteride off-label to postmenopausal women with androgenetic alopecia, but this is evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Women should discuss alternatives like minoxidil or PRP therapy with our team.

05 What happens when you stop finasteride?

Hair loss resumes gradually after discontinuation as DHT levels return to pre-treatment levels. Most men notice increased shedding within 3-6 months, and hair density returns to pre-treatment baseline within 12 months. Any regrowth achieved during treatment will be progressively lost. This is why our dermatologists emphasize that finasteride is a long-term commitment — the medication maintains results only while you continue taking it.

06 Is finasteride safe long-term?

Yes. The original clinical trials followed patients for five years, and subsequent studies have tracked outcomes for over a decade with no increase in adverse events over time. The 2% side effect rate remains consistent whether a patient has been on finasteride for one year or ten. Our board-certified dermatologists at DSI Hair provide ongoing monitoring and follow-up to ensure your continued safety and optimal results.

07 What is the difference between finasteride and Propecia?

They are the same medication. Propecia is the brand name for finasteride 1mg, manufactured by Merck. Since the patent expired in 2013, generic finasteride is widely available at significantly lower cost. Both contain identical active ingredients at the same 1mg dose. Dr. Khanna prescribes the generic version unless a patient specifically requests the brand, as there is no clinical difference in efficacy or safety.

Location2430 Esplanade Drive, Suite B
Algonquin, IL, 60102

Emailinfo@dsihair.com

New Patients(844) 307-7546

Existing Patients(847) 458-7546

Ready to Start

Schedule Your Finasteride (Propecia) Consultation

References

PubMed (PMID: 9951956) - Kaufman KD et al. Finasteride in the treatment of men with androgenetic alopecia: a five-year study showed 66% of men achieved hair regrowth and 83% maintained existing hair.
PubMed (PMID: 10495374) - Leyden J et al. Finasteride 1mg decreases scalp DHT by 64% and produces significant improvement in hair growth compared to placebo over 48 weeks.
PubMed (PMID: 22150436) - Olsen EA et al. Five-year follow-up confirms long-term efficacy and safety of finasteride 1mg in treatment of male pattern hair loss with consistent side effect profile.
PubMed (PMID: 30572466) - Fertig RM et al. Nocebo effect in dermatology: meta-analysis demonstrates significantly higher sexual side effect reporting when patients are informed of risks versus blinded controls.
PubMed (PMID: 25074865) - Hu R et al. Combined finasteride and minoxidil therapy produces superior results compared to monotherapy with either agent alone in treating androgenetic alopecia.