Pattern Hair Loss: Pathogenesis, Clinical Features, Diagnosis, And Management

A 20-year-old woman with androgenetic alopecia feels depressed about her hair loss, despite using topical minoxidil, spironolactone, and saw palmetto. Suggestions include trying oral minoxidil, higher doses of finasteride or dutasteride, and checking for vitamin deficiencies and heavy metal exposure.

Androgenic alopecia (AGA) might have evolved to reduce prostate cancer risk by increasing UV exposure to the scalp, but this theory is debated. Treatments like minoxidil and finasteride are used for AGA, though the exact causes and evolutionary reasons for hair loss are unclear.

A 25-year-old male experienced significant hair loss due to telogen effluvium and androgenetic alopecia. He began using finasteride, minoxidil, and vitamins, seeing some regrowth but remains worried about hair density.

A 27-year-old woman with advanced female pattern hair loss and telogen effluvium is experiencing increased hair shedding after starting oral minoxidil and finasteride. She is seeking advice and reassurance from others who have experienced similar issues, while also considering additional treatments like dermapen and ensuring her nutritional needs are met.

Aminexil/Kopexil may help reduce hair loss by addressing perifollicular fibrosis in androgenetic alopecia, but it lacks the extensive clinical backing of finasteride and minoxidil. Some users find it effective, but availability and cost are issues, especially in the US where it's not FDA-approved.

The conversation discusses androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and questions why treatments focus on lowering DHT levels instead of building resistance to it. It also touches on hair transplantation techniques using body hair.