Finasteride: Is It The Magical Drug for Hair Loss? Let's Unveiled Pros and Cons

Yes, it’s true. This hormone, derived from testosterone, attacks the hair follicle and begins a cascade of biological events that causes hair loss. So when Finasteride came onto the market, an FDA-Approved drug known to stop the production of DHT, it quickly became the most commonly known hair loss treatment for man. So in today’s article, we’re going to dive into the science and truths behind this intriguing medication. What is Finasteride's potential for rejuvenation? What are the important factors to consider before taking the leap? And how else could Finasteride affect you?

Let's first understand the cause of male pattern hair loss. This condition, also known as androgenic alopecia, is characterized by a predictable pattern of hair thinning and loss. It starts with a receding hairline, receding temples and thinning at the crown. With advanced hair loss, all these segments meet resulting in a large bald patch on the scalp. This condition is influenced by both genetic and hormonal factors. DHT first binds to androgen receptors found on the hair follicles, this initiates a series of events that eventually lead to hair loss.

Finasteride, Hair Loss can be very effective for many individuals but results can vary depending on how early it is prescribed to an individual. Meaning, finasteride is more effective in the early stages of hair loss. Like most medical treatments, the results will stack over time so don’t expect to have a thick head of hair after a week of the medication. It is commonly recommended to consistently take finasteride for 6 months to start seeing noticeable results.

Finasteride has several potential benefits for individuals dealing with male pattern hair loss, as it has shown remarkable results in stopping hair loss and promoting hair growth in many men. The main benefit is its amazing ability to slow down or even reverse the process of miniaturization. Studies have shown that it can prevent further hair loss in up to 90% of users and even stimulate regrowth in about two-thirds of men. Finasteride contributes to increased hair density, improved hair coverage, and potential boost in self-confidence. Letting you feel your best. The convenience of a once-daily oral tablet, also makes finasteride a popular choice among those seeking to restore their hair.

Most of the unpleasant side-effects can be alleviated after discontinuing the medication, however for a group of individuals this was not the case. Due to that, aPost-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS) community has formed to bring awareness to other men of the risks they are potentially subjecting themselves to when trying to treat their hair loss with finasteride. PFS is still being debated by the medical and scientific communities as studies researching the link between finasteride and this syndrome have produced conflicting results, as the symptoms reported are nonspecific and often overlap with other medical conditions.

Fortunately, yes. Many medicinal herbs have been shown to be natural DHT blockers rather than act as a DHT Inhibitor like finasteride. So what’s the difference? 

• A DHT Inhibitor works to block the production of DHT itself. As mentioned, Finasteride words by blocking the enzyme responsible for converting testosterone over to DHT. By reducing the level of DHT circulating in the body, it slows down the rate at which DHT can attack the hair follicle and cause hair loss. Although DHT is a culprit to hair loss, it still has other roles in the body. This is why altering your hormonal levels through finasteride leads to side effects.
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• A DHT blocker doesn’t try to alter your body's natural hormone levels. Instead a DHT blocker works to block the androgen site where the DHT typically binds to. By stopping the DHT from binding to the hair, the hair is protected from miniaturization and the DHT produced in the body can still play its role in the body without the concern of the attack on the hair. Double board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Stanley Okoro said that "Compared to finasteride, I prefer a good natural DHT blocker," and prescribes HairSmart's DHT Blocker to post-transplant patients as well as to women.

What are the wonder ingredients ban together to deliver these amazing results? Here are five clinically proven natural herbs that work just as good, if not better at treating hair loss than finasteride.

1. Saw Palmetto Berry Extract: This berry aids hair loss, as they have the ability to keep testosterone level balanced, stopping the conversion of testosterone into DHT, making it beneficial for hair growth.

2. Pygeum Bark Powder: This bark, commonly in a powder form for supplements for treating enlarged prostate and prostatitis infections, due to its ability to block DHT.

3. Green Tea Extract: Not only does green tea make for an energizing morning drink. It also helps in circulating hormones and blow flow within the body which improves overall health. A healthy body and scalp results in hair follicle stimulation as well as hair growth.

4. Pumpkin Seed Oil: The oil contains phytosterol beta-sitosterol, that prevents the conversion of testosterone into DHT.

5. Stinging Nettle Root: This amazing root contains compounds such as lectins, histamine, sterols, glycosides, polysaccharides, essential repair vitamins and minerals, that all neutralize free radicals in the scalp and block DHT.

So we’ve broken down everything you need to learn about male pattern hair loss, DHT, finasteride, and why you should consider a natural DHT Blocker. So, let’s summarize what your next steps should be in order to treat your hair loss safely and effectively.

Prevention is key. If you’re already starting to notice your hair is falling out much more than usual, or you’re even starting to notice you’ve lost some density in your hair. The key is to act fast. It is much easier to treat and reverse hair loss when caught early so get on a good natural DHT to protect your hair and your sex-life. Avoid taking finasteride unless you really don’t believe the natural route is providing you the results you desire, but at least you would be walking in being much more informed about what finasteride, the benefits, and the potential risks. 

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