Finasteride achieves regrowth at Norwood 3 in approximately 40% of users based on vertex-focused clinical data, with another 40% achieving stabilization. The difference between these two outcomes shapes your entire treatment plan, and only consistent tracking data can tell you which category you belong to.
Norwood 3: Where Stabilization and Recovery Overlap
Norwood 3 describes deep temple recession forming an M-shaped hairline. At this stage, hair loss is clearly visible and typically requires 1,500-2,200 grafts if surgical restoration is pursued. But before considering surgery, Finasteride data at this stage can answer a critical question: are you a stabilizer or a regrower?
| Response Type | Percentage | What the Data Shows | Next Step |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regrowth | ~40% | Density rises 10-20% above baseline | Continue Finasteride alone |
| Stabilization | ~40% | Density holds within 5% of baseline | Consider adding Minoxidil |
| Non-response | ~20% | Density continues to decline | Consult doctor, switch treatment |
How to Track at Norwood 3
Set Your Baseline
Upload a photo at myhairline.ai/analyze to get your starting measurements. At Norwood 3, your baseline should capture:
- Temple recession depth (the defining feature of this stage)
- Vertex density (crown thinning often accompanies Norwood 3)
- Overall hair count in the frontal and mid-scalp zones
Separate Frontal and Vertex Data
This is the most important tracking principle at Norwood 3. The vertex responds to Finasteride at a higher rate (~83%) than the frontal zone (~45%). If you only track overall density, you may miss that your crown is responding while your temples are not, or vice versa.
Take both front-facing and top-down photos at each tracking session. Compare zone data independently.
Check at Months 3, 6, 9, and 12
- Month 3: Shedding phase may still be active. No conclusions yet.
- Month 6: First reliable data point. Look for density stabilization.
- Month 9: Regrowth responders typically show visible improvement here.
- Month 12: Full assessment. Your response category should be clear.
Stabilizer vs. Regrower: What It Means for Your Plan
If you are a stabilizer: Finasteride is preventing further loss but not recovering hair. This is a positive outcome. To add density on top of stabilization, consider:
- Topical Minoxidil 5% (40-60% moderate regrowth rate)
- PRP therapy ($500-$2,000 per session, 3-4 initial sessions recommended)
- Microneedling at 1.0-1.5 mm depth every 2 weeks
If you are a regrower: Finasteride alone is recovering density. Continue at 1 mg daily and track quarterly. You may not need any additional treatment.
If you are a non-responder: After 12 months with no stabilization, discuss alternatives with your doctor. Dutasteride (0.5 mg daily) blocks both Type I and Type II 5-alpha reductase and may work where Finasteride did not.
Surgical Planning at Norwood 3
If you decide to pursue a hair transplant at Norwood 3, your tracking data directly informs the surgical plan:
- Graft estimate: 1,500-2,200 grafts for Norwood 3
- Cost range: $1,500-$4,400 in Turkey ($1-$2/graft), $6,000-$13,200 in the USA ($4-$6/graft)
- FUE recovery: 7-10 days, with 90-95% graft survival rate
Surgeons prefer to operate on patients whose loss has been stabilized by Finasteride. Unstabilized patients risk continued recession behind the transplanted area.
Start Your Norwood 3 Assessment
Get your free Norwood classification and density baseline at myhairline.ai/analyze. No app, no account, no data stored. Track your progress with the Norwood 3 vertex hair loss tracking tool and our Finasteride progress tracking guide.
Medical disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Finasteride is a prescription medication with potential side effects in 2-4% of users. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting or changing treatment.