Hair loss treatments work best when they’re used correctly and consistently. If you’re combining finasteride and minoxidil, knowing how and when to take them can significantly improve your results. Here’s a pharmacist-recommended daily routine to help you maximise hair regrowth while minimising common side effects.
Why Combine Finasteride and Minoxidil?
Finasteride and minoxidil work in complementary ways:
Finasteride is an oral medication that reduces dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the hormone responsible for shrinking hair follicles in male pattern baldness.
Minoxidil is a topical solution or foam applied directly to the scalp to increase blood flow and stimulate follicle activity.
Together, they tackle both the hormonal and circulatory causes of hair thinning, improving your chances of maintaining and regrowing hair.
Morning Routine: Start with Minoxidil
Most people apply minoxidil twice a day. Starting in the morning helps keep your schedule regular.
1. Wash your hands and scalp (if greasy) before applying minoxidil. Your scalp must be clean and dry.
2. Apply 1ml of minoxidil solution (or the equivalent if using foam) to the affected area of the scalp. Use the dropper or foam applicator provided.
3. Let it dry completely before styling your hair or applying other products – this can take 2–4 minutes. Avoid blow-drying directly on the scalp.
4. Wait at least 4 hours before washing your hair to allow the medication to absorb fully.
Avoid: Using hair styling products while minoxidil is still wet, or applying more than the recommended dose.
Taking Finasteride: Midday or Evening
Finasteride comes as a 1mg tablet, taken once daily. It doesn’t matter what time you take it, but consistency is key.
-
–> Take at the same time each day, ideally with a glass of water. You can take it with or without food.
-
–> Setting a daily reminder on your phone or pairing it with another habit (e.g. brushing your teeth) can help ensure you don’t miss a dose.
Avoid: Crushing or breaking the tablet. Women should not handle crushed tablets due to potential risk in pregnancy.
Evening Routine: Second Minoxidil Application
If using minoxidil twice daily, repeat your morning steps in the evening. Leave at least 8–12 hours between applications.
1. Make sure your scalp is dry (you can towel-dry after a shower).
2. Apply 1ml of minoxidil as directed.
3. Let it dry before bed to prevent the solution rubbing off on your pillow.
Optional Tip: If you’re only able to apply minoxidil once a day, using it at night may reduce any noticeable residue or odour during the day, though twice-daily use remains the most effective.
What to Avoid While Using Finasteride and Minoxidil
-
–> Avoid missing doses – both treatments require consistency to work.
-
–> Don’t apply minoxidil on broken or irritated skin.
-
–> Avoid using a hairdryer on high heat immediately after application.
-
–> Don’t expect instant results – this is a long-term commitment.
Side Effects: What’s Normal?
Minoxidil can cause mild scalp irritation, flaking, or increased shedding in the first few weeks – this is often temporary.
Finasteride has a small risk of sexual side effects (less than 2%), including reduced libido or erectile difficulty, which usually improve after stopping the medication.
Speak to a pharmacist if side effects are persistent or worrying.
When Will I See Results?
Patience is essential. Here’s a rough timeline:
0–3 months: Initial shedding is common – it’s a sign that new growth is beginning.
3–6 months: Hair loss stabilises, and regrowth may begin in thinning areas.
6–12 months: Thicker, fuller hair is typically noticeable.
Consistency and proper application are crucial to achieving the best outcome.
Speak to a Pharmacist First
Combining finasteride and minoxidil is a clinically supported approach to treating hair loss – but it may not be suitable for everyone. If you have underlying health conditions, or if you’re unsure about the cause of your hair loss, consult with our team through an online consultation.
We’ll help determine if these treatments are right for you and support you in getting the most out of your routine.
Start Consultation
With over eight years of experience in community, hospital, and online pharmacies, Gavin is a highly skilled Clinical Pharmacist and expert in UK pharmacy regulation. He has a deep understanding of medicines, compliance, and patient safety, ensuring onlinemeds operates to the highest standards while providing safe and accessible care.