Time for change or just in my head?

General
1

I’m 20 and I’ve been on minoxidil for about 1 and a half years now (Oct 2023)however my consistency lately hasn’t been the best. I spoke to a hair consultant (as well as a dermatologist and she would prescribe me fin if I wanted). I’ve held off due to the side effects I’ve heard but I’m starting to second guess that decision. I do 5% topical min solution once a day (started at twice a day). However my concern is lately I’ve noticed a bit more thinning than usual, when I shower more hair is falling out and I’m not too sure where to go from here? Time for fin or should I try and switch back to min 2x a day and derma stamp? Or is this loss just something I’ve hyper fixated on and it doesn’t look terrible to the untrained eye? Hairline went from NW2 to NW 2.5 ish

Progress photos are attached and lmk if u have any questions or how I can clarify. (Sorry for no earlier photos i took them when my hair was wet/ diff lighting)

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2

if you’ve been inconsistent with min, that alone can cause some shedding as your follicles react to the drop-off in stimulation. Consider adding in dermarolling 1–2 times per week (with a 1–1.5mm stamp or roller). Give it a good 3–6 months. Finasteride is worth considering, even 0.25mg, which many tolerate well. If you’re already seeing changes at 20, time is key.

3

I really appreciate your response. Do you recommend I do fin while maintaining the minoxidil regimen? Or wait until after the 3-6 months and see where I stand by then

4

Yeah, ultimately you’ll probably need both unfortunately