Cyclic Alopecia in Msx2 Mutants: Defects in Hair Cycling and Hair Shaft Differentiation

A user shared their 6.5-month experience with topical finasteride (2%) and minoxidil (5%), noting initial progress followed by a significant shedding phase. Others in the conversation reassured that shedding is normal and suggested staying consistent with the treatment for potential regrowth.

The user is experiencing hair thinning and is questioning if it's a shed phase after 7 months on oral finasteride and 1 month on topical minoxidil, with occasional derma-rolling. Shedding is common with minoxidil, and users suggest it may take a year or two for noticeable improvement.

Hair thickness below 50% may not recover fully, but treatments like finasteride and minoxidil can help. Shedding involves a resting phase before new hair grows, taking about three months.

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.

Hair loss treatments like finasteride and minoxidil can cause cycles of shedding and regrowth, leading to fluctuating emotions. Users experience periods of hair improvement followed by shedding, with some finding long-term stabilization elusive.

The user experienced significant hair loss after extended fasting, initially thought to be Telogen Effluvium, but later suspected male pattern baldness. They tried finasteride briefly but stopped due to concerns about side effects, and are unsure if the hair loss is due to Telogen Effluvium or another cause.