18M Unsure About Topical vs. Oral Fin After Shedding, Started Feb 2024

Age: 18
Started treatment: Late Feb 2024

I noticed my hairline was receding, so I saw a derm who suggested topical fin + min. I was too sensitive at the time, so I started with just topical minoxidil. I’ve stayed consistent with it for over a year. Throughout, I had ongoing shedding, but my density looked its best around April–May 2025.

To preserve my hairline further, I tried switching to MorrF 5% (topical fin + min) in May and stopped regular min. But within 10 days, I felt possible sides (though not sure if they were placebo), so I quit and went back to just topical min. Since then, I’ve stayed regular with min, Follihair/biotin, and dermarolling (0.5 mm weekly).

The only noticeable improvement is that the heavy daily morning shed has reduced. But I still see white bulbs on most shed hairs, and I’m now noticing slight crown thinning (not sure if it was there earlier). ChatGPT suggested it might be telogen effluvium triggered by the abrupt fin change.

I’m just really down — not sure if fin will even work for me now. Please help me out if you’ve had a similar experience or have any guidance.

since you noticed a reduction in shedding, it might mean your situation is stabilizing. the white bulbs on hair can be normal with shedding. telogen effluvium can happen with treatment changes and should stabilize with time. if you’re worried, sticking to topical min and microneedling might be good since they work well together. look into reintroducing fin slowly if you decide to try again, as it can help curb DHT and future thinning. check The Beginner’s Guide for more details.

so which fin would u recommend
how would u suggest me to apply it