Minoxidil Shedding: What it Means?
The beginning of a new hair regimen can be really exciting and hopeful.
Many people with hair loss turn to Minoxidil, expecting an end to their hair problem.
However, Minoxidil does not give results instantly. It takes time.
According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, Minoxidil can show significant results in about 4 to 6 months.
Moreover, it can cause more hair loss during the initial period of the treatment.
Minoxidil shedding refers to increased hair loss in the beginning.
However, there is no need to stress about this excessive shedding because it is a good thing.
Minoxidil shedding at the beginning of the treatment actually means that the medicine is working.
Continue reading to understand more about Minoxidil shedding and what it means.
What is Minoxidil
Minoxidil is a widely used medicine for hair loss. It is also popular by the brand name Rogaine.
People first started using the medicine to treat Hypertension.
But individuals who had hair loss problems and took medicine for Hypertension started noticing hair regrowth.
After that, Minoxidil became the most popular over-the-counter medicine for hair growth.
The working of Minoxidil is not completely understood. But it is clear that it decreases hair loss in some people with Alopecia.
Minoxidil is a Vasodilator. It dilates your blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily.
This medicine comes as foam or solution. When you apply it to your scalp, its vasodilating action increases blood circulation to your scalp, resulting in hair regrowth.
How Minoxidil affects the hair growth cycle
Minoxidil affects two stages of hair growth.
The growing phase of hair, also called Anagen, is when hair is being pushed out from the scalp.
Minoxidil extends this growing phase, keeping hair for a longer time on the head.
Another stage that Minoxidil affects is the Telogen phase.
The Telogen phase is the resting phase of hair. At this stage, hair is grown completely but not ready to fall out.
Minoxidil shortens this phase from 20 days to 1-2 days. This makes space for new hair to grow.
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Minoxidil shedding
Minoxidil’s side effects are usually mild, including itching and burning.
Hair shedding in Minoxidil is one such side effect you may notice when you first start using it.
As explained in the above section, Minoxidil shortens the Telogen phase.
This causes hair in its Telogen stage to fall out at a faster-than-normal pace.
However, Minoxidil also increases the growing phase of hair. Even though the hair is shedding more quickly, new hair growth will replace your lost hair.
Everyone experiences Minoxidil shedding differently. Some people may not experience it at all, while others may suffer from hair shedding severely.
But it is important to note that Minoxidil shedding is normal. If you are experiencing hair shedding, that just means the medicine is working for you.
How long does Minoxidil shedding last
The duration of shedding from Minoxidil varies from person to person.
Generally, it can last up to eight weeks after starting the treatment. You can also start noticing the results of the medicine.
After around four months of Minoxidil use, your hair loss should subside.
If you are still noticing hair shedding, Minoxidil may not be the right product for you. Consult your doctor for alternatives.
Takeaway
In conclusion, Minoxidil shedding means the medicine works for you.
Minoxidil works by lengthening the Anagen phase and reducing Telogen.
Thus hair in its resting phase start falling out prematurely, leading to shedding.
It is, however, a good thing, as thin and weaker hair falls out so that new hair can grow in place.
Minoxidil shedding should last for around eight weeks. You should start noticing the results within four months.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the hair shedding last with Minoxidil?
Minoxidil shedding usually occurs at the beginning of the treatment. It starts two to eight weeks after you start and should subside within the first four months of the treatment. If hair shedding does not stop, it might be the cause of some other condition.
Is shedding good when using Minoxidil?
Yes. If you are experiencing Minoxidil hair shedding, it means that the medicine is working. Minoxidil shortens the resting phase of your hair. Thus your hair falls out more quickly, and new hair starts to grow in place.
Does everyone shed on Minoxidil?
No. Everyone sheds differently after starting treatment with Minoxidil. Some people may not experience shedding at all; for some, it might shed severely. However, it shouldn’t alarm you as losing hair after you start Minoxidil treatment is normal.
What happens if you stop Minoxidil during the shedding phase?
If you stop using Minoxidil suddenly, shedding worsens for some people. Also, you will start losing the hair you gained while using the medicine. Minoxidil works as long as you are using it. Once you discontinue the use, your newly grown hair will fall out within six to nine months.
Is Minoxidil shedding permanent?
No. In most cases, Minoxidil shedding lasts for around eight weeks. After you start the treatment, Minoxidil shortens the Telogen phase of hair. This causes thin, weak hair to fall out more quickly, giving space for new and stronger hair.
