For context, I’m 18 years old and for years truly believed I had no genetic hair loss, but after coming to university, I have accepted I likely do due to more significant loss in recent months. I’ve always had very thick and dense hair, and largely this is still true, but over the years, my temples and corners have receded much more than I am comfortable with. When I was about thirteen, I went through some traumatic shit and lost quite a lot of hair, but it stayed static for many years, up until about a year ago. I was diagnosed with an anxiety disorder and major depressive disorder, but I am in a much more stable place nowadays; however, the constant stress definitely affects my hair. After as much research as possible and a visit to a dermatologist a year ago to correct any vitamin deficiencies, I now know I need to take something to help here.
I have bought a dermastamp that I pointlessly used for months last year, and topical 5% minoxidil foam that I have on hand but have not used. I am choosing to delay taking the fin as I am extremely prone to side effects (I swapped between 7 different anxiety/ depressive medications over 3 years due to side effects, including many rare ones), and the research on the effect on hormones at my age seems inconclusive at best, and dangerous at worst. The second point is the main one. I don’t think the side effects would ruin my life or anything. I’m using topical min as I don’t believe my hair loss is severe enough to warrant use on any area other than the corners. I am going to wait until I turn nineteen next summer for fin, as I want to make sure I make the best judgment call possible for my personal health. It is quite difficult to get access to a dermatologist right now so I will wait to get a consultation when I am home and access is easier.
TL: DR. Going to start topical min with dermastamping, and wait on fin. Am I paranoid, dumbass? Should I even start min without fin?