Case Series of Oral Minoxidil for Androgenetic and Traction Alopecia: Tolerability and the Five C’s of Oral Therapy

Minoxidil and finasteride are used for hair regrowth, but initial shedding can be distressing. Consistent use is important, and many users eventually see regrowth and thickening.

The user experienced significant hair shedding and dryness after starting minoxidil 8 months post-hair transplant, despite using finasteride and oils like castor and pumpkin seed oil. They expressed concern over the loss of density and the appearance of a failed transplant.

A 23-year-old male experiencing extreme hair shedding after increasing oral minoxidil to 2.5mg, previously used finasteride and dutasteride with minoxidil. Shedding is likely a common "minoxidil shed," indicating potential new hair growth.

The user is experiencing hair loss with symptoms of receding hairline, extreme shedding, and low density, possibly due to androgenic alopecia, diffuse thinning, retrograde alopecia, or telogen effluvium. They have used minoxidil and noticed changes in shedding patterns related to different water qualities and seborrheic dermatitis.

Stopping and restarting minoxidil can cause significant hair shedding. The user is also using finasteride and microneedling to manage hair loss.

The user stabilized hair loss with oral finasteride, dutasteride, and topical minoxidil, and underwent a stem cell and PRP procedure. Recent increased hair shedding may be due to restarting dermarolling, affecting minoxidil absorption, or the waning effects of the stem cell treatment.