Hair Loss Treatment for Men in Ireland: Finasteride, Minoxidil & More

Hair loss is one of the most common concerns affecting men in Ireland, yet it remains a topic many find difficult to discuss. The good news is that effective treatments are available, and accessing them has never been easier with online consultations now widely available.

If you are experiencing thinning hair or a receding hairline, you are not alone. Male pattern baldness affects approximately 50% of men by the age of 50, and for some, it can begin as early as their twenties. Understanding your options and starting treatment early can make a significant difference in preserving and even regrowing your hair.

Understanding Hair Loss: Types and Causes

Before exploring treatment options, it is important to understand what type of hair loss you are experiencing. Different types require different approaches.

Androgenetic Alopecia (Male Pattern Baldness)

This is by far the most common cause of hair loss in men, accounting for over 95% of cases. Male pattern baldness is hereditary and caused by a combination of genetics and hormones, specifically dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

How it works:

• DHT is a hormone derived from testosterone
• In men genetically predisposed to hair loss, DHT causes hair follicles to shrink (miniaturise)
• Over time, affected follicles produce thinner, shorter hairs
• Eventually, follicles stop producing visible hair altogether

Typical pattern:

• Receding hairline, often starting at the temples
• Thinning at the crown (vertex)
• Progression to partial or complete baldness on top

Male pattern baldness follows the Norwood Scale, ranging from Stage 1 (minimal hair loss) to Stage 7 (extensive baldness).

Alopecia Areata

This is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks hair follicles, causing patchy hair loss. Unlike male pattern baldness, alopecia areata can affect any part of the body and often appears as distinct circular patches.

Characteristics:

• Sudden onset of round, smooth bald patches
• Can occur at any age
• Hair may regrow spontaneously but can recur
• Not caused by hormones or genetics in the traditional sense

Telogen Effluvium

This type of hair loss is typically temporary and triggered by stress, illness, surgery, or significant life events. A large number of hair follicles enter the resting (telogen) phase simultaneously, leading to diffuse thinning across the scalp.

Common triggers:

• Major surgery or illness
• Severe emotional stress
• Rapid weight loss
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Certain medications

The good news is that telogen effluvium usually resolves on its own once the underlying trigger is addressed.

Treatment Options for Hair Loss

For men experiencing androgenetic alopecia, several clinically proven treatments are available in Ireland. The two most effective pharmaceutical options are finasteride and minoxidil.

Finasteride (Propecia)

Finasteride is a prescription-only medication that tackles male pattern baldness at its hormonal root. It is considered the gold standard medical treatment for hair loss in men.

How finasteride works:

• Finasteride blocks the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase
• This enzyme converts testosterone into DHT
• By reducing DHT levels by approximately 70%, finasteride slows or stops hair follicle miniaturisation
• This allows affected follicles to recover and produce thicker, healthier hair

Dosage and administration:

• Standard dose: 1mg daily (oral tablet)
• Should be taken at the same time each day
• Results typically visible after 3-6 months of consistent use
• Maximum benefits usually seen at 12-24 months

What to expect:

• Slowing of hair loss within 3 months
• New hair growth often visible by 6 months
• Continued improvement over 1-2 years
• Must be taken continuously to maintain results

Finasteride is available under the brand name Propecia, as well as generic versions which are equally effective and more affordable.

Minoxidil (Regaine)

Minoxidil is an over-the-counter topical treatment available without prescription in Ireland. It works differently to finasteride and can be used alone or in combination therapy.

How minoxidil works:

• Minoxidil is a vasodilator that increases blood flow to hair follicles
• It extends the growth (anagen) phase of the hair cycle
• Stimulates follicles in the resting phase to begin growing again
• The exact mechanism is not fully understood but clinical results are well-documented

Available formulations:

• Topical solution (2% or 5%): Applied directly to the scalp twice daily
• Topical foam (5%): Easier to apply, dries faster, less irritation for some users

Application tips:

• Apply to dry scalp, not wet hair
• Use the dropper or foam applicator to target thinning areas
• Gently massage into scalp
• Allow to dry completely before styling
• Apply twice daily for best results

Minoxidil is sold under the brand name Regaine (Rogaine in other countries) and is available at pharmacies throughout Ireland.

Combination Therapy: Finasteride + Minoxidil

Many dermatologists and hair loss specialists recommend using both finasteride and minoxidil together for optimal results. This approach targets hair loss through two different mechanisms:

• Finasteride: Addresses the hormonal cause (DHT)
• Minoxidil: Stimulates growth and blood flow

Clinical studies have shown that combination therapy produces better results than either treatment alone. Men using both medications typically see greater hair density and faster visible improvement.

Other Treatment Options

Beyond finasteride and minoxidil, several other options are available:

Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT):

• Uses red light wavelengths to stimulate hair follicles
• Available as combs, caps, or helmets for home use
• FDA-cleared but evidence is less robust than pharmaceutical treatments
• May be used alongside medication

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy:

• Involves injecting concentrated platelets from your own blood into the scalp
• Growth factors in platelets may stimulate hair follicles
• Typically requires multiple sessions
• Emerging treatment with promising but limited long-term data

Hair Transplant Surgery:

• Surgical procedure that moves hair follicles from donor areas to balding areas
• Two main techniques: FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) and FUT (Strip method)
• Permanent results but expensive (typically EUR 4,000-15,000+ in Ireland)
• Best suited for those with stable hair loss and adequate donor hair
• Medical treatments like finasteride often recommended before and after transplant

How Effective Are Hair Loss Treatments?

The clinical evidence for finasteride and minoxidil is substantial, based on decades of research and real-world use.

Finasteride Effectiveness

Multiple large-scale clinical trials have demonstrated finasteride's efficacy:

• 90% of men experience a halt in further hair loss
• 65% of men see visible regrowth of hair
• Results improve over time with continued use
• Most effective when started early in the hair loss process

A landmark 5-year study published in the *Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology* found that 99% of men taking finasteride maintained their hair or improved, compared to only 75% in the placebo group.

Minoxidil Effectiveness

Clinical studies of minoxidil show:

• 40% of men experience moderate to significant regrowth
• Additional 35% see some improvement
• Best results at the crown and mid-scalp areas
• Less effective for frontal hairline recession

When Treatment Works Best

Both treatments are most effective when:

• Started early - Before significant hair loss has occurred
• Used consistently - Daily adherence is crucial
• Given time - Results take 3-6 months to become visible
• Continued long-term - Stopping treatment leads to resumed hair loss

How to Get Hair Loss Treatment Online in Ireland

Getting [hair loss treatment](/services/hair-loss) has never been more convenient. Online consultations allow you to speak with an Irish-registered GP from the comfort of your home.

The Online Consultation Process

• Complete a Health Questionnaire
• Answer questions about your medical history
• Describe your hair loss pattern and duration
• Upload photos of your scalp (optional but helpful)
• List any medications you currently take

• GP Review
• An Irish Medical Council registered GP reviews your submission
• They assess your suitability for treatment
• May request additional information if needed

• Video Consultation (if required)
• Some cases may require a video [consultation](/consultations) to discuss your concerns
• Allows the GP to ask questions and provide personalised advice
• Typically takes 10-15 minutes

• Prescription Issued
• If appropriate, the GP issues a prescription for finasteride
• Prescription sent electronically to your chosen pharmacy
• Or medication delivered directly to your door

What Doctors Ask About

During your consultation, the GP will typically enquire about:

• Age and general health status
• Family history of hair loss
• How long you have been experiencing hair loss
• Pattern of hair loss (receding, thinning, patchy)
• Any previous treatments tried
• Current medications (to check for interactions)
• Relevant medical conditions (especially prostate or liver conditions)
• Whether you are planning to have children (relevant for finasteride)

Being prepared with this information will help make your consultation smooth and efficient.

Cost of Hair Loss Treatment in Ireland

Understanding the costs involved helps you plan your treatment journey.

Consultation Fees

• Online prescription consultation: from EUR 25
• Video consultation (if needed): from EUR 35

Medication Costs

Finasteride:

• Generic finasteride 1mg: approximately EUR 30-40 for a 3-month supply
• Brand name Propecia: approximately EUR 80-120 for a 3-month supply
• Generic versions are equally effective and significantly more affordable

Minoxidil (Regaine):

• Minoxidil 5% solution: approximately EUR 25-35 per month
• Minoxidil 5% foam: approximately EUR 30-40 per month
• Available without prescription at pharmacies

Annual Treatment Cost Estimate

While this represents an ongoing investment, many men find it worthwhile given the impact hair loss can have on confidence and self-image.

Side Effects: What You Need to Know

Understanding potential side effects helps you make an informed decision about treatment.

Finasteride Side Effects

The majority of men taking finasteride experience no side effects. However, a small percentage may experience:

Sexual side effects (occurring in less than 2% of men):

• Decreased libido (sex drive)
• Erectile dysfunction
• Reduced ejaculate volume

Important points:

• These side effects are rare, affecting fewer than 2 in 100 men
• Most side effects resolve after stopping medication
• Many men find side effects diminish with continued use
• The risk must be weighed against the benefits of treatment

Other rare side effects:

• Breast tenderness or enlargement (very rare)
• Mood changes (very rare)

If you experience any concerning side effects, consult your GP. In most cases, simply stopping the medication resolves any issues.

Minoxidil Side Effects

Minoxidil is generally well-tolerated, but some users experience:

Common side effects:

• Scalp irritation, dryness, or itching
• Flaking or dandruff-like symptoms
• Initial increased hair shedding (temporary, usually resolves within 2-4 weeks)

Less common side effects:

• Unwanted facial hair growth (if product runs onto face)
• Dizziness or light-headedness (rare)
• Rapid heartbeat (rare, more common if overused)

Minimising irritation:

• The foam formulation often causes less irritation than solution
• Allow application to dry completely
• Avoid applying to broken or irritated skin
• Wash hands thoroughly after application

When to Start Treatment

The single most important factor in successful hair loss treatment is starting early. Here is why timing matters:

Why Earlier is Better

• Prevention is easier than regrowth
• Stopping hair loss is more achievable than regrowing lost hair
• Follicles that have completely miniaturised may not respond to treatment

• More follicles to save
• The more healthy follicles present when you start, the better your results
• Once follicles are dormant for too long, they may not recover

• Cumulative benefits
• The longer you use treatment, the better your results
• Starting at 25 versus 35 means 10 more years of hair preservation

• Psychological benefits
• Early intervention can prevent the emotional impact of significant hair loss
• Maintaining your hair is often easier than accepting substantial change

Signs You Should Consider Treatment

• Noticeable thinning at the crown
• Receding hairline, especially at the temples
• More hair in the brush or shower drain
• Family history of male pattern baldness
• Scalp becoming more visible through hair

Do not wait until hair loss is severe. If you are noticing early signs, now is the ideal time to consult a GP.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is finasteride safe for long-term use?

Yes. Finasteride has been prescribed for hair loss since 1997 and has an extensive safety record. Studies spanning over 10 years have not shown an increase in adverse effects with long-term use. However, regular check-ins with your GP are recommended.

Can I use finasteride and minoxidil together?

Absolutely. Using both treatments together is a common and effective approach. They work through different mechanisms, so combining them often produces better results than either alone.

Will my hair fall out if I stop treatment?

Unfortunately, yes. Hair loss treatments maintain your hair while you are using them. If you stop finasteride or minoxidil, hair loss will typically resume, and gains made during treatment may be lost over 6-12 months.

How long until I see results?

Most men start noticing reduced hair shedding within 1-3 months. Visible improvement in hair thickness typically appears around 3-6 months. Maximum results are usually achieved at 12-24 months of consistent use.

Is finasteride the same as Propecia?

Yes. Propecia is the brand name for finasteride 1mg. Generic finasteride contains the same active ingredient and is equally effective at a lower cost.

Can women use these treatments?

Finasteride is not approved for women and can cause birth defects if taken during pregnancy. Women should not even handle crushed or broken finasteride tablets. Minoxidil 2% is sometimes used for female pattern hair loss, but women should consult a GP before starting any treatment.

Will hair loss treatments work for everyone?

Results vary between individuals. Approximately 90% of men see benefits from finasteride, but the degree of improvement differs. Factors affecting response include genetics, age, extent of hair loss, and consistency of use.

Are there any foods or supplements that help with hair loss?

While a balanced diet supports overall hair health, no food or supplement has been proven to treat male pattern baldness. Be wary of unproven "natural" remedies. However, addressing nutritional deficiencies (such as iron or vitamin D) may help if deficiency is contributing to hair loss.

Taking the Next Step

Hair loss is a treatable condition, and the sooner you act, the better your results are likely to be. With online consultations now available, accessing prescription treatments like finasteride has never been more convenient.

If you are ready to take control of your hair loss, [book a consultation](/consultations) with one of our Irish-registered GPs today. Our doctors can assess your situation, discuss your options, and if appropriate, prescribe effective treatment that can be delivered directly to your door or collected from your local pharmacy.

Do not let hair loss hold you back. Effective treatments are available, and getting started is just a click away.

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*This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any treatment. GetYourGP consultations are provided by Irish Medical Council registered GPs.*