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

    From the encyclopedia
    Minoxidil →

    An essential vasodilator with some anti-androgenic effects

    Tretinoin →

    the gold standard retinoid in dermatology that's also helpful for hair regrowth alongside Minoxidil

    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.
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    Related Research

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      EEMCO Guidance for the Assessment of Hair Shedding and Alopecia

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      51 citations , January 2004 in “Skin Pharmacology and Physiology”
      This review discusses various techniques for evaluating hair shedding and alopecia but reports no new clinical results. The authors emphasize the value of specific clinical and instrumental methods in assessing hair growth.
      Telogen Effluvium: A Common Hair Loss Condition

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      April 2012 in “Informa Healthcare eBooks”
      Telogen effluvium is a common hair loss condition where many hairs enter the resting phase, often not noticeable until significant loss occurs, and treatment focuses on the underlying cause.
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      3 citations , February 2008 in “Basic and clinical dermatology”
      Telogen Effluvium is a hair loss condition where treatment involves identifying and managing its triggers.
      Postmenopausal Alopecia (Hair Loss)

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      January 2017 in “Springer eBooks”
      Over 40% of postmenopausal women experience hair loss, with treatments aiming to stop further loss and possibly thicken hair.
      Systematic Approach to Hair Loss in Women

      research Systematic approach to hair loss in women

      45 citations , March 2010 in “Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft”
      This article discusses methods for diagnosing and managing diffuse hair loss and reports no new results; the authors emphasize systematic evaluation and the importance of psychological support.
      Androgenetic Alopecia: Overview, Diagnosis, and Treatment

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      1 citations , January 2015 in “Springer eBooks”
      AGA is a common hair loss disorder, and early diagnosis and treatment with minoxidil or finasteride can help reduce emotional distress.