Hi everyone,
I’m reaching out because I’m honestly feeling a bit lost regarding my current situation. I’ve been following this subreddit for quite a while now, reading many of your posts about hair loss and the progress you’ve made. It’s been inspiring, but also frustrating for me personally.
I’m male, 22 years old, and have been struggling with hair loss for some time. I’ve been on medication for a while now – daily 1x Minoxidil and 1mg Finasteride. Unfortunately, my condition hasn’t improved in a long time, and I’m starting to feel unsure about what might be causing it or what else I can try.
Here’s a summary of my story:
• My hair loss began around June 2022, when I noticed a lot of hair falling out after showers – so much that it even clogged the drain.
• A few months later, it stopped temporarily. I finally got an appointment with a dermatologist in November 2022 (which took quite a while in Germany).
• The dermatologist diagnosed hair loss, likely triggered by Covid (March 2022) and a major diet change (I lost about 12 kg intentionally).
• I was prescribed Minoxidil and iron supplements to maintain my levels. I also started using a dermaroller weekly.
• After a few months of consistent use, my hair condition improved significantly. By August 2023, my hair was fuller, stronger, and hair loss was minimal (no real photos from above to show the progress 
)
Then things went downhill again:
• In September 2023, hair loss returned – likely triggered by a lot of stress (due to university and personal issues). Even after the stress went away, the shedding continued.
• I kept using Minoxidil, iron, and the dermaroller. I also added Biotin, Vitamins D, B, C, and Magnesium, based on my doctor’s recommendation.
• However, by August 2024, my hair had noticeably thinned. Density was lower, and the crown area became more visible. Mentally, this was hard to deal with, but I eventually accepted it.
Following a recommendation, I started Finasteride in late August 2024:
• I began slowly with 0.25mg every other day, then daily after 2 weeks. After one month, I switched to 0.5mg daily until end of January 2025. I wanted to avoid side effects and give my body time to adjust.
• I also read studies saying 0.5mg can be nearly as effective as 1mg, just slower.
• I also shaved my head in november order to let the hair growth stronger and healthier.
• During those 5 months, I didn’t notice much change. The hair loss slightly decreased, and I saw some baby hairs growing on my temples, which made me happy – but they are still barely visible.
Since February 2025, I increased my Finasteride dose to 1mg. I also:
• Eat more protein (I do strength training)
• Take additional supplements like Saw Palmetto and pumpkin seed oil capsules
• Use rosemary oil, castor oil, and a Biotin & collagen shampoo
• Wash with Ketoconazole shampoo (2%)
Now it’s late April, and sadly, there’s still no improvement. I continue shedding daily – I wake up with lots of hairs on my pillow, and I see many hairs after showers. The crown is less dense and overall the hair density on the top is less than ever. I believe the Minoxidil is working, as I can see some hair growth and would likely have much less hair without it. Finasteride might also be having an effect, but it’s hard to tell for sure.
I know shedding is normal with Minoxidil and Finasteride, but I feel like it should’ve been over by now – especially for Minoxidil, and maybe even for Finasteride.
Has anyone here experienced something similar? Could the Finasteride shedding phase take longer for some people, or start later? Are there any other medications or treatments that could help in my case?
I’d really appreciate any advice you can share. If you need more info, feel free to ask!
Thanks so much for reading.