> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.hi-doctor.ai/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Topical finasteride spray — usage guide

> How to use prescribed finasteride-only and finasteride–minoxidil sprays: pump counts, scalp technique and exposure precautions.

Topical finasteride sprays are not interchangeable with each other: the licensed finasteride-only spray and compounded finasteride–minoxidil formulas have different concentrations and applicators. Apply only the prescribed number of pumps to a dry scalp.

## How to use it

Applying the spray is a short procedure, and the order matters — measure first,
then apply, then let it dry before anything touches it.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Follow the exact pump count on your label">
    Part the hair, aim at the scalp, spread gently if instructed, and wash hands immediately.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Prevent skin transfer">
    Let the area dry before contact with pillows, hats, other people, or pets.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Dose schedule

Use the same daily time and record the pump count. Do not compensate for a missed application, and do not combine it with oral finasteride without the doctor's approval.

At the 3–6 month review, the doctor checks scalp tolerance, any sexual or mood symptoms, and consistent photographs. The compounded formula may only be adjusted by a prescriber and pharmacy.

## What has been reported

| Effect                                                                                                  | Notes                                                                   |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Dryness, itching, flaking, redness, burning                                                             | Local reactions at the application site                                 |
| Early shedding, or unwanted hair where liquid is transferred                                            | With minoxidil-containing versions                                      |
| Reduced libido, erection or ejaculation changes, breast symptoms, mood changes, dizziness, palpitations | Systemic exposure is generally lower than with tablets, but is not zero |

## Contact your doctor if

* A severe scalp reaction, facial swelling, breathing difficulty, chest pain, or fainting
* Sexual, breast, mood, heart-rate, or swelling symptoms that persist or concern you
* A pregnant person, someone who could become pregnant, a child, or a pet contacts wet spray

<Warning>
  A pregnant person, someone who could become pregnant, a child, or a pet contacting wet spray needs prompt attention — finasteride can affect fetal development.
</Warning>

## Storage

Keep upright in the pharmacy-labelled container, tightly closed and away from heat or flame. Follow the compounded preparation's use-by date, which may be shorter than a commercial product's expiry.

## What to expect

Hair treatment is gradual. Early shedding can occur, and photographs taken in the same light are more useful than day-to-day checking. The doctor normally reviews tolerance and progress after several months; continue only while the balance of benefit and risk remains appropriate.

## How Hi-Doctor handles it

A licensed EU doctor reviews your case and, if appropriate, issues a prescription. Related reading: [oral minoxidil](/library/medicines/oral-minoxidil), often combined with finasteride in a compounded formula, and [postpartum hair loss](/library/conditions/postpartum-hair-loss), one of the conditions these treatments are considered for. See also [safety and eligibility checks](/essentials/safety) and [how a Hi-Doctor consultation works](/essentials/how-it-works).

## Common questions

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="How do I use a topical finasteride spray?">
    Part the hair, aim at the scalp, and apply only the prescribed number of pumps. Wash hands immediately after. Let the area dry before contact with pillows, hats, other people or pets.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="How long does it take to see results?">
    Hair treatment is gradual. Early shedding can occur, and photographs taken in the same light are more useful than day-to-day checking. The doctor normally reviews tolerance and progress after several months.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I use the spray with oral finasteride?">
    No. Do not combine it with oral finasteride without the doctor's approval. The compounded formula may only be adjusted by a prescriber and pharmacy.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="What should I do if I miss an application?">
    Do not compensate for a missed application. Use the same daily time and record the pump count. Continue with the next scheduled dose.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="What are the possible side effects?">
    Local reactions at the application site include dryness, itching, flaking, redness or burning. Systemic exposure is generally lower than with tablets but is not zero — reduced libido, erection or ejaculation changes, breast symptoms and mood changes should be discussed with your doctor.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Related reading

* [Finasteride](/library/medicines/finasteride)
* [Androgenetic alopecia](/library/conditions/androgenetic-alopecia)

## Start a consultation

<Card title="Hair-growth consultation" icon="stethoscope" href="https://hi-doctor.ai/consultation/hair-growth/1">
  Answer the hair-growth questionnaire and a registered doctor reviews it.
  They decide whether treatment is appropriate, which one, and at what dose —
  and declining is a normal outcome. See [what it costs](/essentials/pricing)
  and [how the review works](/essentials/how-it-works).
</Card>

<Warning>
  This page is reference information, not medical advice and not a prescription.
  Whether a medicine is appropriate for you is decided by a registered doctor
  after reviewing your consultation.
</Warning>