Starting Minoxidil and Finasteride and noticing your hair actually falling out more in the first few weeks? That reaction — alarming as it feels — is actually a recognised clinical phenomenon. Dr. John Watts explains exactly what is happening and what you should do.
Initial hair loss: what is reperfusion injury?
“What you are experiencing is temporary hair loss. This is a common phenomenon known as reperfusion injury, and it is a sign that new hair growth is occurring,” explained Dr. John Watts. Resting (telogen phase) hairs shed to make way for new, stronger hair growing in the anagen phase.
Will the same happen on the crown area?
“Even this hair loss would be temporary and the existing hair that fell will see hair growth again after some time along with the growth of new baby hair. Hence, there is no need to worry,” Dr. Watts confirmed.
Why stopping Finasteride reduces hair density
Finasteride is a DHT blocker that directly addresses the hormonal trigger causing genetic baldness. “You can use hair serum or PRP or Minoxidil, but they can postpone the destruction of hair due to genetic hair loss condition only to a certain extent. Finasteride works better in your case and you should continue to use it,” Dr. John Watts informed.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a qualified dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment.
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Frequently asked questions
Why does hair fall more when I start Minoxidil and Finasteride?
Dr. John Watts explains this is called reperfusion injury — a temporary shedding of resting hairs as improved blood flow triggers new growth. It is a normal sign that the treatment is working.
Will initial shedding from Minoxidil happen on the crown area too?
Yes, the same temporary shedding can occur when the lotion is applied to the crown. Dr. Watts confirms this hair will regrow, along with new baby hair, after some time.
Why did my hair density reduce when I switched from Finasteride to Minoxidil?
Because Finasteride is a DHT blocker that directly stops genetic baldness progression. Minoxidil and PRP stimulate growth but cannot block DHT. Dr. Watts advises continuing Finasteride for genetic hair loss.
