When you start looking for a solution to male pattern baldness, Finalo is often the first name you see. It’s a brand‑name tablet that contains Finasteride, a 5‑alpha‑reductase inhibitor that shrinks the hormone DHT, the main driver of hair‑follicle miniaturisation. While Finalo’s reputation is solid, many men wonder whether other options might work better, be cheaper, or have fewer side effects. This guide walks through the most common alternatives, breaks down how they differ, and helps you decide which route makes sense for your scalp.
How Finasteride Works - The Science Behind Finalo
Finasteride blocks the enzyme typeII 5‑alpha‑reductase, reducing the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by about 70%. Lower DHT levels mean the hair‑growth phase (anagen) can prolong, and miniaturised follicles can regain thickness. The standard oral dose for hair loss is 1mg per day, which is the amount sold as Finalo in the UK.
Why Look at Alternatives?
Even though the drug has a strong track record, several factors push men to explore other treatments:
- Cost - Finalo is a prescription‑only product and can be pricey, especially without insurance.
- Side‑effects - Some users report sexual dysfunction, mood changes, or reduced libido.
- Medical contraindications - Men with a history of prostate cancer or certain liver conditions may be advised against finasteride.
- Preference for non‑oral routes - Topical applications or devices avoid systemic exposure.
Below you’ll find the most widely‑used alternatives, each compared on mechanism, typical dose, regulatory status, common side‑effects, and price.
Comparison Table: Finalo and Its Main Competitors
| Medication | Mechanism | Typical Dose | UK Regulatory Status | Common Side‑effects | Average Monthly Cost (GBP) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Finalo (Finasteride) | 5‑alpha‑reductase inhibitor (typeII) | 1mg oral daily | Prescription‑only (POM) | Sexual dysfunction, reduced ejaculate, mood changes | £35-£45 |
| Propecia (Finasteride 1mg) | Same as Finalo | 1mg oral daily | Prescription‑only (POM) | Similar to Finalo | £45-£55 |
| Dutasteride (Avodart) | Dual 5‑alpha‑reductase inhibitor (typeI&II) | 0.5mg oral daily | Prescription‑only (off‑label for hair loss) | Higher risk of sexual side‑effects, rare breast tenderness | £30-£40 |
| Minoxidil (Rogaine) | Topical vasodilator → prolongs anagen phase | 5% solution or foam applied twice daily | OTC (over‑the‑counter) | Scalp irritation, unwanted facial hair | £12-£20 |
| Spironolactone | Anti‑androgen, blocks androgen receptors | 50-100mg oral daily (women only) | Prescription‑only (off‑label for women) | Hyperkalaemia, menstrual irregularities | £5-£10 |
| Low‑Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) | Photobiomodulation → stimulates follicle metabolism | 8‑15min sessions 3‑5×/week | Medical device (CE‑marked) | Minimal; occasional eye strain | £100-£300 (device purchase) |
| Platelet‑Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections | Autologous growth‑factor concentrate → revitalises follicles | 3‑4 sessions, 4‑6weeks apart | Medical procedure (clinic‑based) | Transient pain, bruising | £300-£600 per session |
Deep Dive Into Each Alternative
1. Propecia - The Brand Version of Finasteride
Propecia is essentially the same molecule as Finalo but sold under a more widely recognised brand. If you already have a prescription for finasteride, the clinical outcomes will be identical. The main difference lies in pricing and availability; some UK pharmacies stock Propecia at a slightly higher price point because it’s a branded product.
2. Dutasteride (Avodart) - A Stronger Enzyme Blocker
Dutasteride inhibits both typeI and typeII 5‑alpha‑reductase enzymes, cutting DHT levels by up to 90% compared with finasteride’s 70%. In practice, many men notice a faster density increase, especially in the crown area. However, the broader hormonal suppression also raises the likelihood of sexual side‑effects. Because it’s licensed for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and not officially for alopecia, using it for hair loss is off‑label, which means you’ll need a specialist to prescribe it.
3. Minoxidil - The OTC Topical Staple
Minoxidil works at the opposite end of the spectrum - it’s a vasodilator that widens blood vessels around the follicles, allowing more nutrients to reach the hair‑growth zone. It’s the only FDA‑approved OTC treatment for both men and women. While it’s safe and inexpensive, the results plateau after about a year, and you must keep applying indefinitely or risk shedding the regrown hair.
4. Spironolactone - Anti‑Androgen for Women
Although not used by men due to its anti‑testosterone properties, spironolactone is a go‑to for women with female‑pattern hair loss. It blocks androgen receptors and reduces circulating DHT. The drug is cheap, but doctors monitor potassium levels because high doses can cause hyperkalaemia.
5. Low‑Level Laser Therapy - A Device‑Based Approach
LLLT devices - ranging from combs to caps - emit red‑light wavelengths (630-670nm) that stimulate cellular activity in the hair follicle. Clinical trials show a modest increase in hair count, especially when combined with topical minoxidil. The upfront cost can be steep, but there’s no systemic exposure, making it attractive for those wary of pills.
6. Platelet‑Rich Plasma (PRP) - Clinic‑Based Regeneration
PRP therapy uses your own blood, spins it to concentrate platelets, then injects the growth‑factor‑rich serum into the scalp. Patients often report noticeable thickening after a series of treatments, and the side‑effect profile is mild because it’s autologous. The major drawback is cost - a single session can exceed a hundred pounds, and most clinicians recommend 3‑4 sessions for lasting benefits.
Which Option Is Right for You? Decision‑Making Framework
Choosing a hair‑loss plan isn’t one‑size‑fits‑all. Use the following checklist to line up your priorities with the best‑fit product.
- Budget - If cost is the biggest barrier, start with minoxidil or a generic finasteride like Finalo.
- Side‑effect tolerance - If you’ve experienced sexual side‑effects with finasteride, consider dutasteride (but be aware the risk may increase) or switch to a non‑systemic option like LLLT.
- Regulatory comfort - Some users prefer OTC products (minoxidil) to avoid prescriptions; others trust a doctor‑prescribed pill for stronger results.
- Commitment level - Oral tablets require daily compliance; devices need regular sessions; PRP demands clinic visits.
- Hair‑loss pattern - Vertex thinning often responds better to dutasteride, while frontal recession may need a combination of finasteride and minoxidil.
In many cases, a combo approach works best - for example, finasteride (or Finalo) plus minoxidil gives a synergistic effect, tackling DHT production and follicle stimulation simultaneously.
Practical Tips for Starting Finalo or Any Alternative
- Get a baseline scalp photograph - it makes tracking progress easier.
- Schedule a follow‑up with your GP after 3months to evaluate efficacy and side‑effects.
- Never double‑dose - more isn’t better and may raise side‑effect risk.
- Combine with a gentle, sulfate‑free shampoo to keep follicles healthy.
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in zinc, iron, and biotin; supplements alone won’t replace medication.
Summary of Key Takeaways
- Finalo delivers the same 1mg finasteride dose found in Propecia - effective for most men.
- Alternative oral options like dutasteride offer stronger DHT suppression but may increase side‑effects.
- Topical minoxidil, LLLT, and PRP provide non‑systemic routes with varying costs and results.
- Choosing the right regimen depends on price, side‑effect tolerance, and how committed you are to daily or weekly treatments.
FAQs - Your Most Common Questions About Finalo and Alternatives
Can I use Finalo and minoxidil together?
Yes. The two work via different mechanisms - finasteride blocks DHT while minoxidil stimulates follicle blood flow. Most dermatologists recommend using both for maximum density gain.
How long before I see results with Finalo?
Typical visible improvement appears after 3-6months of consistent daily dosing. Early shedding can happen as weaker hairs fall out, which is a normal part of the regrowth cycle.
Is dutasteride safe for long‑term use?
Clinical studies show dutasteride is safe for many years, but the higher DHT suppression means sexual side‑effects are reported more often. Regular monitoring with your doctor is advised.
Do I need a prescription for minoxidil?
No. Minoxidil 2% and 5% formulations are sold over‑the‑counter in UK pharmacies and online stores.
Will stopping Finalo cause my hair to fall out again?
If you discontinue finasteride, DHT levels rise back to baseline and any gains may be lost over several months. Some people taper off slowly or switch to a topical alternative to maintain results.
By weighing cost, side‑effects, and your personal commitment, you can pick the right solution - whether that’s sticking with Finalo, trying a stronger pill like dutasteride, or opting for a device‑based approach. Whichever path you choose, consistency and realistic expectations are the true secret to keeping your hair looking its best.
Valerie Vanderghote
October 17 2025When I first noticed the tiny razor‑thin strip on the back of my head, I felt an unexpected wave of panic that seemed to echo louder than any crowd in a stadium.
It wasn’t just about hair; it was a reminder that my body was quietly betraying the youthful image I had worked so hard to maintain.
The idea of popping a daily pill like Finalo, with its promise of shrinking DHT, felt like handing over a tiny piece of control to a chemical ally.
Over the months I read endless forums, watched countless YouTube testimonies, and even consulted a dermatologist who suggested a combination of finasteride and minoxidil.
I learned that the 70 % DHT reduction claimed by the drug could translate into a modest but noticeable thickening for many men, yet it also carried a shadow of potential side‑effects that loomed like a storm cloud.
When the first few weeks passed, I experienced a strange shedding phase, which the experts called “initial shedding,” and it terrified me, making me wonder if I had made a terrible mistake.
However, by the third month, I began to see fine hairs re‑emerge, like little green shoots after a harsh winter, and my confidence started to rebuild brick by brick.
The financial cost of Finalo was a recurring reminder that I was investing in a future version of myself, and I compared it to the cheaper over‑the‑counter minoxidil, weighing the long‑term commitment versus short‑term convenience.
I also questioned whether dutasteride’s stronger DHT suppression was worth the higher risk of sexual side‑effects, a dilemma that kept me up at night and sparked intense debates with my partner.
The emotional toll of worrying about potential mood changes was real, as I found myself irritable on days when the pills seemed to have no effect.
Nevertheless, the steady, gradual thickening of the crown area gave me a sense of achievement that no other grooming product had ever delivered.
My experience taught me that consistency is the hidden hero in any hair‑loss regimen, and skipping doses even once can undo weeks of progress.
In the end, I decided to stick with Finalo because the prescription cost was covered by my health plan, and the side‑effects remained mild and manageable.
Looking back, the journey felt like an emotional roller coaster that taught me patience, self‑acceptance, and the importance of consulting medical professionals before diving into any treatment.
Now, each morning I glance at the mirror not with dread, but with a quiet pride that the hair on my scalp is slowly, stubbornly, reclaiming its territory.
And that, dear reader, is the story of my long, winding, and ultimately hopeful battle with hair loss.