Hair Shedding Phase Explained: Why Hair Loss Gets Worse Before Better

Starting hair loss treatment can be a journey of hope, but many patients experience an initial period of increased hair shedding. This phenomenon, often called the 'shedding phase,' can be concerning, but it's usually a positive sign that treatments like minoxidil, finasteride, or dutasteride are beginning to work. If you're looking to get a minoxidil, finasteride, or dutasteride prescription online from an EU-licensed doctor, you've come to the right place. Hi-Doctor makes it simple: a €25 online consultation, a prescription issued in under 24 hours (if appropriate), and it's valid at any pharmacy across the EU.

How it works — get your hair loss medication prescription in 4 steps

1. Fill the online medical questionnaire (2–3 minutes) and pay the €25 consultation fee.
2. A licensed EU doctor reviews your case in private. If the doctor determines the treatment is not appropriate, your €25 is refunded automatically — no risk.
3. If approved, you receive a REMPE electronic prescription (PDF file) in your Hi-Doctor account and by email within 24 hours.
4. Print the PDF or show it on your phone — present it at any pharmacy in the EU to collect the medication.

Who qualifies for minoxidil, finasteride, or dutasteride

When you complete your online medical questionnaire, an EU-licensed doctor will assess several factors to determine if minoxidil, finasteride, or dutasteride is appropriate for you. They look for specific patterns of hair loss (like androgenetic alopecia), your general health, existing medical conditions, and any medications you are currently taking. Contraindications vary by medication but generally include certain heart conditions, liver problems, or use by women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant (especially for finasteride and dutasteride). The doctor's review ensures the treatment is safe and effective for your individual case.

What minoxidil, finasteride, and dutasteride actually do (and don't do)

These medications work through different mechanisms to combat hair loss:

• Minoxidil: Available as a topical solution or oral tablets, minoxidil is a vasodilator that increases blood flow to hair follicles, stimulating them to enter the active growth phase (anagen). It helps to strengthen existing miniaturized hairs and encourage new growth. It doesn't block DHT.
• Finasteride and Dutasteride: These are oral medications that work by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is the primary hormone responsible for androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness) by shrinking hair follicles. By reducing DHT levels, these medications help to reverse the miniaturisation process, allowing follicles to produce thicker, healthier hairs. Dutasteride is generally more potent than finasteride in reducing DHT.

It's important to understand that these treatments are not a cure for baldness, but rather a way to manage and slow down hair loss, and in many cases, promote regrowth. Consistent use is key, and results typically become noticeable after several months.

Side effects and when to stop

Like all medications, minoxidil, finasteride, and dutasteride can have side effects. Common side effects for minoxidil can include scalp irritation (topical) or unwanted hair growth in other areas (oral). For finasteride and dutasteride, potential side effects include sexual dysfunction (decreased libido, erectile dysfunction) and, rarely, mood changes. Most side effects are mild and temporary. However, if you experience severe side effects, persistent discomfort, or any alarming symptoms such as chest pain, rapid heartbeat, or significant mood alterations, you should stop the medication immediately and consult a doctor. Your Hi-Doctor EU-licensed physician will provide a comprehensive overview of potential side effects during your consultation.

Why Hi-Doctor vs. walking into a clinic

Choosing Hi-Doctor for your hair loss medication prescription offers unparalleled convenience and efficiency compared to traditional clinic visits:

• Speed: Get your prescription in under 24 hours vs. waiting weeks for an in-person appointment.
• Price: A flat €25 consultation fee — no hidden costs, and your money is refunded if treatment isn't appropriate. Private clinic fees can vary significantly.
• Privacy: Everything happens in our secure, RGPD-compliant app. No waiting rooms, no reception desks, just private, auditable chat with your doctor.
• Convenience: Complete your consultation from anywhere, anytime, using your phone or computer. No travel, no time off work.
• Trust: Join over 50,000 satisfied patients, reflected in our 4.8 Trustpilot rating. Our EU-licensed doctors provide personalised, professional care.