I’m 27, almost 28. My dad and mom’s dad both have hair, but it’s pretty thin on the top now. My dad’s hair was especially thick like mine, and the top lost a lot of hair. So a year ago I noticed more shedding in the shower, so I started more aggressive minoxidil (topical) - meaning I had done it for years but not consistently and like a drop or now, now I used the amount it says on the box mostly. The shedding seemed to slow down, and my hair felt fine for a few months, then I noticed more shedding again. So I got on finestride 1mg and do a lot of monoxide, like 2 times a day and more than enough, even micro needling .5 mm once a week to help. I have been on it for like 5 or 6 weeks, and DAMN shedding is scary right now. Especially when I shampoo. But recently, I can do the pull test on my bangs (where my thinning originated) and like 5 or more hairs come out. It’s terrifying honestly. But they are shorter thinner hairs mostly so I hear that’s normal and fine, but it’s super scary. So far I feel like my hair has only gotten thinner. Keep in mind, it’s pretty thick compared to when most people start. I know I need to keep with the treatment but what indicators are there to look out for that tell me this is not something to worry about and in 2 weeks all my hairs wrong just fall out? I know stress certainly doesn’t help but it’s hard. Is this normal for others? I’d love to hear reassurance or stories or even what I should do if it’s a bad sign. My dermatologist is busy for a long while so I turned to this channel.
Shedding when you start min and fin is normal and usually happens because your hair follicles are adjusting. It’s scary, but it often means the treatment is working. The shedding can last for a few months, but it should slow down. Microneedling once a week is good. If you see a lot of breakage or scalp issues, check for conditions like sebderm; ketoconazole shampoo can help with that. Stay consistent with your routine, and give it time to see improvement. Keep an eye on your scalp health too. Hang in there! Check out the Beginner’s Guide for more info.