Can Minoxidil cause increased hair fall in the initial days of use?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 36-year-old woman with very thin hair. I have started using Minoxidil 5 percent for severe hair fall in the last two weeks.

During two weeks of using, my hair has increased and become thinner. Is it normal? Should I stop using it? Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

The thinning of hair could be female pattern hair loss, and the definite treatment for this is Minoxidil topical solution to be used for at least four to five months. Initial hair fall after using Minoxidil is common, so the lotion will stimulate the falling of shedding hair follicles so that new hair will be grown in that place. So there is nothing to worry about, and continue using Minoxidil for at least three months to see any response. If there is no response, even after three months, you may need to plan for PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy.

Thank you.