Noticing a receding hairline? You’re not alone — and thanks to years of research, effective treatments are within reach.

Male hair loss can be caused by a variety of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors, and it’s far from uncommon. According to the American Hair Loss Association, approximately 85% of men will experience some degree of hair loss by age 50.

Today, there’s no shortage of options for men looking to regrow hair or preserve what’s left — from LED light therapy and microneedling treatments to $15,000 hair transplants and a vast array of supplements. But many of these solutions focus on managing symptoms rather than addressing the root cause.

Hair growth is closely linked to hormones, and finasteride is one of the few prescription treatments that directly targets the hormonal imbalances — specifically elevated DHT levels — which can contribute to hair loss and lead to male pattern baldness.

Finasteride can be taken as a pill; however, this oral form may cause systemic side effects, such as decreased libido and erectile dysfunction. Topical finasteride, on the other hand, is generally well-tolerated, besides occasional redness or itchiness to the scalp. The solution can be applied directly to the affected area of the scalp.

For men looking to begin finasteride treatment, there are several options from trusted men’s health brands like Ulo, Happy Head, and hims. Many of these companies offer finasteride products that are also combined with Minoxidil, which is said to work by increasing blood flow to the hair follicles and stimulating growth.

To explore the science behind finasteride and the safety precautions for users, the Post consulted board-certified dermatologist Nazanin Saedi.

Saedi explained that finasteride is an FDA-approved oral medication used to treat male pattern hair loss. It works by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which normally converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone linked to hair follicle miniaturization.

“Elevated DHT levels cause hair follicles in the scalp to shrink, producing finer, weaker hairs and eventually leading to hair loss,” shared Saedi. “By reducing the body’s production of DHT, finasteride helps preserve hair follicles, slow hair loss, and in many cases, encourage regrowth.”

According to Saedi, finasteride has proven to be highly effective for many patients. However, there are important safety concerns. For example, it is contraindicated in women of childbearing potential due to the risk of birth defects. For more information on finasteride and safety, head to the FAQ section.

Below, find some of the best topical finasteride brands for hair loss in 2025.

Ulo brings a personalized approach to men’s health. The company’s powerful hair regrowth system combines finasteride alongside minoxidil to target the root cause of hair loss — for more visible results. The solid dose of 0.2% finasteride actively targets DHT, while 7% Minoxidil works by increasing the blood flow to the hair and helping stimulate growth. Supporting compounds like cetirizine, melatonin, caffeine, and retinoic acid enhance follicle stimulation and absorption. Instead of relying on a one-size-fits-all approach, Ulo combines clinically studied ingredients to address the root causes of hair loss.

Active Ingredients: Finasteride, minoxidil, cetirizine, melatonin, caffeine, and retinoic acid | Expected Results: results in 3-6 months, with further improvements up to 1-2 years with continued use

Similar to Ulo and Hims, Happy Head offers a personalized approach to treatment, including a complimentary consultation with a board-certified dermatologist and customized prescriptions upon signing up. Happy Head’s prescription-strength topical medication is a best-seller. With 0.3% finasteride and 8% Minoxidil, it works by blocking DHT to regrow hair and maintain it. Each bottle includes a calibrated dropper for swift, easy, and mess-free application. The best results are seen with consistent use.

Active Ingredients: Finasteride, minoxidil | Expected Results: Results in 3 to 6 months

Hims provides a broad range of resources and treatment plans for men experiencing hair loss. Among its most in-demand offerings is a prescription-strength topical spray that combines 0.3% finasteride with 6% minoxidil. This formulation includes a strong concentration of minoxidil, which may enhance its effectiveness. Although some users may experience mild side effects, such as scalp dryness or irritation, many consider them a worthwhile trade-off for a treatment that is targeted and very easy to apply.

Active Ingredients: Finasteride, minoxidil | Expected Results: Up to 4 months with consistent use

Due to potential side effects, some individuals opt to avoid finasteride-based products. For those seeking a more natural approach, this hair oil offers an alternative — made for men and women. It features a blend of herbs and plant-based oils believed to help block DHT — including organic argan, apricot kernel, pumpkin seed, saw palmetto, green coffee bean, and tea tree oil. Reviewers mentioned seeing some hair growth around the three-month mark. However, it’s important to note that this natural solution may be less effective than products that contain finasteride.

Active Ingredients: Organic argan oil, apricot kernel, pumpkin seed, saw palmetto oil, green coffee bean, tea tree oil, more | Expected Results: Customers mention seeing results around the three-month mark

Keeps offers a slightly lower dose of finasteride than some competitors — and at a more affordable price point. Its formula combines 0.25% finasteride with 5% minoxidil, aiming to address hormone-driven hair loss while simultaneously promoting regrowth. Several before-and-after review photos suggest that, for some men, the results are visibly effective. While the gel-based application can be a bit messy, it may be a worthwhile trade-off for those seeking a budget-friendly solution.

Active Ingredients: Finasteride, minoxidil | Expected Results: Results within 4-6 months of consistent use

“Finasteride is FDA-approved only for men with androgenetic alopecia,” Saedi notes. “It is contraindicated in women of childbearing potential because of the risk of serious birth defects.”

Saedi did point out that some research suggests finasteride’s possible benefits for post-menopausal women, but this use is considered “off-label.”

For women, alternative options such as spironolactone are often prescribed off-label to help counteract the hormonal influence on hair loss.

While finasteride is an effective treatment for some men dealing with hair loss, it’s very important to be aware of potential side effects.

With topical finasteride, the solution is concentrated on the scalp, which can minimize its absorption into the bloodstream. Consequently, the side effects are typically limited to the scalp area. Some users still report occasional itchiness or redness around the hairline.

Oral finasteride is absorbed systemically, which means it can lower DHT levels throughout the body and affect the sexual system. According to Saedi, the most commonly reported side effects include decreased libido and erectile dysfunction.

The short answer, according to Saedi, is yes.”Finasteride [is] effective, and results can be significant for many patients.”

However, she added that stopping the medication will typically lead to a return of hair loss. The best way to maintain the benefits is to stay consistence with long-term use.

This article was written by Miska Salemann, New York Post Commerce Writer/Reporter. As a health-forward member of Gen Z, Miska seeks out experts to weigh in on the benefits, safety and designs of both trending and tried-and-true fitness equipment, workout clothing, dietary supplements and more. Taking matters into her own hands, Miska intrepidly tests wellness products, ranging from Bryan Johnson’s Blueprint Longevity Mix to home gym elliptical machines to Jennifer Aniston’s favorite workout platform – often with her adorable one-year old daughter by her side. Before joining The Post, Miska covered lifestyle and consumer topics for the U.S. Sun and The Cannon Beach Gazette.