From greasy scalp to Minoxidil on the moustache to what happens when you stop your medication — Dr. John Watts answers six of the most practical hair care questions that many patients think about but rarely bring up during a consultation.
Greasy scalp the day after a head bath
“Possibly, this could be because one’s dandruff problem is at an advanced stage,” Dr. Watts explains. His advice: wash your hair daily and reduce oil application to once a week or less.
Can Minoxidil be applied to the moustache?
“Use of the alcohol-based product may directly get into the nasal mucosa in the nasal cavity, which could backfire,” warns Dr. John Watts. Minoxidil can generally be used for beard and scalp hair growth, but the moustache area requires caution and a dermatologist’s opinion.
What is the best time to take Finasteride?
“For best results with Finasteride, it is better if one takes the drug every day. To avoid its side effect, I usually suggest to my patients that they take it in the morning,” informs Dr. John Watts. Since Finasteride has a half-life of six hours, sexual activity in the evening carries minimal risk.
What happens if I stop taking Minoxidil?
“The halting of Minoxidil drug can trigger and reactivate the DHT and one may come back to square one as the hair growth may again disappear in 2–3 months,” Dr. Watts explains.
Can I use saltwater for head baths after a hair transplant?
“Saltwater can adversely affect the hair. After a few days of a hair transplant, generally, the transplanted hair falls,” Dr. Watts advises. Avoid hard or saltwater for the first 5–10 days after a transplant.
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
Can I use Minoxidil on my moustache?
Dr. Watts advises caution. Unlike beard use, applying alcohol-based Minoxidil near the moustache risks absorption into the nasal mucosa. Consult a dermatologist to understand the cause of your moustache hair loss first.
What is the best time of day to take Finasteride?
Dr. Watts recommends taking Finasteride in the morning. Since it has a 6-hour half-life, sexual activity in the evening carries minimal risk of side effects.
Will my hair loss return if I stop Minoxidil?
Yes. Dr. Watts explains that stopping Minoxidil allows DHT to reactivate and hair growth may disappear within 2-3 months, especially in people with a family history of baldness.
