Understanding Minoxidil Hair Loss and How to Manage It

If you've recently started using minoxidil 5% and are noticing an increase in hair shedding, you may be concerned. But don't worry, this is a common phenomenon and often a positive sign of your hair's journey to better health. In this article, we will delve into why this occurs and how to manage it effectively.

Introduction to Minoxidil and Hair Loss

Minoxidil is a well-known hair loss treatment, but it can sometimes cause a temporary increase in hair shedding. This can be puzzling and concerning for many individuals. However, rest assured that this is a normal part of the treatment process.

Why Minoxidil Causes Shedding

How Minoxidil Affects Your Hair Growth Cycle:
Minoxidil works by accelerating the shedding of thinning hair, allowing new, healthier hair to take its place. This might seem counterintuitive, but it's a crucial step in the healing process.

The Hair Growth Cycle

Understanding the four phases of hair growth is essential to comprehend why you might experience shedding while using minoxidil. These phases are as follows:

Anagen Phase

The anagen phase is the growth phase, where hair is continuously growing. This can last anywhere between 2 to 6 years. During this phase, the hair follicles are actively producing hair.

Catagen Phase

The catagen phase is a transition period. Here, the hair receives a signal to stop growing and starts to disconnect from the blood supply. This phase can last up to a few weeks.

Telogen Phase

The telogen phase is also known as the resting phase. During this phase, dying hair rests before being pushed out by new hair. This phase typically lasts up to three months.

Exogen Phase

The exogen phase is when the old hair falls out and new hair comes in. Minoxidil accelerates this process by speeding up the later phases of hair growth, leading to temporary shedding.

How Long Does Minoxidil Shedding Last?

Good news! Most men experience reduced shedding after a few weeks of treatment. Research shows that shedding usually starts two to eight weeks after starting the treatment and should stop after that.

Signs It's a Normal Part of the Process

According to most studies, the majority of men see benefits in 4-6 months, with some taking up to a year for full effects. This timeline is important to keep in mind as you undergo the treatment.

When to Seek Medical Help

While most shedding is normal, there are instances where you should consult a doctor:

Mild to Severe Side Effects

Report severe side effects from minoxidil to your doctor immediately. They can advise you on whether to continue or stop using the treatment.

Rare but Serious Symptoms

Seek medical attention if you experience:

Yellow, green, or grey discharge from broken skin or scalp Chronic redness, scaling, or irritation on the scalp Sudden patchy hair loss that doesn't fit your normal pattern Depression or mental health concerns related to your hair loss

Solutions and Resources

For more information on Minoxidil and hair loss, visit our website ScienceofHim. We offer a free doctor consultation so you can discuss your concerns with a professional.