A Falling Out Following Minoxidil: Telogen Effluvium

The user is using oral finasteride, oral minoxidil, ketoconazole shampoo, and various supplements to stabilize hair loss and thicken hair. They are considering using minoxidil foam on their beard to address empty patches but are concerned about side effects.

The user experienced chronic telogen effluvium and mild male pattern baldness, treated with finasteride, oral minoxidil, and later switched to dutasteride, which stopped excessive hair shedding. Other treatments like low-level laser therapy, hair loss shampoos (except ketoconazole), and supplements were ineffective.

Minoxidil may inhibit androgen receptors and affect hormonal pathways, potentially explaining its effectiveness in treating androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Users discuss its varying effectiveness on scalp versus facial hair and note fewer side effects with topical use compared to oral.

A 35-year-old male used oral finasteride and topical minoxidil, later transitioning to oral minoxidil, to stop hair loss and improve hair density. He plans a future hair transplant and experienced temporary libido changes but no permanent side effects.

A 26-year-old is using 5% minoxidil twice daily and 1 mg finasteride every other day, along with biotin and collagen supplements, for hair regrowth. They apply minoxidil to the temples and crown and experienced initial shedding in the first month.

A 44-year-old man experienced significant hair regrowth after switching from topical to 1.25mg oral minoxidil and 0.5mg daily finasteride, with no side effects. He noticed hair thickening after two months and credits the oral form's effectiveness.