Extreme shedding after ~1 year on 5% topical minoxidil — normal or problem?
    Minoxidil 2/1/2026

    At a glance
    In this treatment experience post, the primary subjects mentioned are
    💧 Minoxidil (topical) 5% 2x daily 1 year
    💧 Tretinoin (topical) 0.05% 3x weekly
    💧 Ketoconazole shampoo (topical) 2-3x weekly
    the tone is 😞 negative with moderate regrowth initially results.

    Other terms

    A 17-year-old using 5% topical minoxidil experienced significant hair shedding after a year, possibly due to a "synchronization shed" and deficiencies in vitamin D and iron. Recommendations include continuing minoxidil, optimizing vitamin D and iron levels, and reducing tretinoin use if scalp irritation occurs.
    View this post in the Community →

    Similar Community Posts Join

    5 / 1000+ results

      community Finasteride two years results from horrible shed

      in Progress Pictures 3 years ago
      This user experienced severe hair loss, but was able to successfully treat it with finasteride over a two year period. Despite experiencing multiple shedding cycles while on the medication, Mission5896 reported that their hair continued to get thicker and stronger. Additionally, they tried both minoxidil orally and topically, but only found success with finasteride.

      community Oral dutasteride vs topical efficacy

      in Finasteride/Dutasteride  60 upvotes 1 year ago
      The user switched from topical minoxidil/dutasteride to oral dutasteride, resulting in hair loss. They resumed topical treatment without regrowth and are considering switching to finasteride due to poor results with oral dutasteride.

      community The Battle of Norwood (2024) | Dut 0.5 mg ED + Oral Min 5 mg ED

      in Progress Pictures  518 upvotes 1 year ago
      The conversation discusses hair regrowth using dutasteride and oral minoxidil, with the user reporting significant improvement in hair volume after combining these treatments. Some side effects mentioned include changes in libido and increased facial hair, but overall, the user is satisfied with the results.

      community Frustrating back and forth progress

      in Is this regrowth?  163 upvotes 8 months ago
      The user is experiencing fluctuating hair regrowth using oral finasteride, topical minoxidil, and microneedling, with the best results in the first four months. Suggestions include being patient through shedding cycles, considering oral minoxidil, and possibly adding dutasteride for stronger results.

    Related Research

    6 / 1000+ results