Why your hair is shedding after starting the hair loss treatment: minoxidil
It’s actually quite common for hair shedding to occur when you first start using Minoxidil for hair loss treatment. This initial shedding is often a temporary phase and can be a sign that the treatment is working. Here’s why it happens:
1. Hair Growth Cycle Transition
Minoxidil works by stimulating hair follicles and promoting the transition of hair from the telogen (resting) phase to the anagen (growth) phase. Hair follicles in the telogen phase are essentially "dormant," and when they are stimulated by minoxidil, the older hair strands (which were in the resting phase) fall out to make room for new, healthier hair to grow. This can cause an increase in shedding within the first few weeks of use.
2. Increased Blood Flow to Hair Follicles
Minoxidil helps increase blood circulation to the scalp, which can kick-start the hair follicles into producing new growth. This sudden "wake-up" of the follicles might cause existing hairs to shed as the follicles begin their new cycle of hair growth.
3. "Shedding Phase" (Telogen Effluvium)
The shedding phase can be a normal part of the process, and while it may feel alarming, it's typically a sign that your hair follicles are responding to the medication. In the beginning, many users report that their hair sheds more than usual, but this typically improves over time.
4. Timing and Duration
The shedding phase usually occurs within the first 2 to 6 weeks of treatment and can last for several weeks. However, it's important to note that the shedding should decrease over time, and new, thicker hair will begin to grow in its place.
5. Long-Term Effects
After the initial shedding phase, if minoxidil is effective for you, hair regrowth will begin to replace the lost strands. You may notice finer, softer hair initially, but with continued use, hair thickness can improve.
6. Other Factors to Consider
Consistency: Minoxidil needs to be used regularly to see results, typically twice a day. Missing applications or inconsistent use can reduce effectiveness and might prolong the shedding phase.
Dosage: It's important to use the correct dosage (usually 1 mL per application) and not overapply, as this can sometimes lead to irritation, dryness, or excessive shedding.
Underlying Issues: If your shedding seems excessive or continues beyond a few months, or if you're experiencing scalp irritation, it's a good idea to consult a dermatologist. There might be other underlying issues or you may need to adjust your treatment plan.
What to Do:
Patience: It's crucial to stick with the treatment for at least 3-6 months to fully assess its effectiveness. The shedding usually decreases within a few weeks, and new growth can be seen in 2-4 months.
Avoid stress: Stress can exacerbate shedding, so managing your stress levels can be beneficial during this time.
Consult a Doctor: If you're experiencing excessive side effects or if shedding continues for more than 6 weeks, it might be worth checking in with your doctor to rule out other issues.
