A.O.T.S
03-22-2009, 02:46 PM
Hi.
I've been using 1mg finasteride for about 3 months, and since using I've not had a major shed (some increased loss but nothing near some stories I've read online), but I've definitely noticed a reduction in density at the centre of the front third of my scalp, from about the very front of my hairline, back about an inch or two. It's not to the extent that I can't still cover it up relatively simply by styling, but I'm worried about continuation. Most of the hairs that are in this area aren't at full thickness anyway, but at the same time aren't fully miniaturised, and them not being there is at least noticeable to me. Definitely so when wet. I was wondering if anybody else had experienced this, and if these missing hairs are simply part of pre-shed, and should grow back in thicker. I know its hard to predict, but any past experience/ advice would be appreciated.
Background: I'm a 19 year old who has had hair loss since I was 16, so 3 years now. Its been relatively slow, and its not to the point where its noticed by other people (with the exception of one friend who has the exact same pattern). Thats partially due to styling, its definitely obvious when wet. I think my hair grows in thick, even if its thin in hair number/individual hair density, if that makes sense (hopefully that bodes well for a future HT, but obviously I'm not considering that anywhere near my age). It's primarily frontal loss, but there is slight diffuse thinning in the usual pattern. I've been using 5% minoxidil for 2 years on and off, but have been using it continuously for about 9 months now. I've also started using Nizoral 2x weekly since I've been on fin. My focus is on retention rather than regrowth.
I know pictures help, but I honestly can't bring myself to take them. I know it'll bum me out, and I'm pretty good at being objective about hair count regardless. I understand the science behind hair loss perfectly well, I'm a second year med student and read journals on MPB frequently, hoping for a little optimism. I guess I'm just looking for something empirical on what I'm experiencing.
Thanks for reading/hopefully responding.
I've been using 1mg finasteride for about 3 months, and since using I've not had a major shed (some increased loss but nothing near some stories I've read online), but I've definitely noticed a reduction in density at the centre of the front third of my scalp, from about the very front of my hairline, back about an inch or two. It's not to the extent that I can't still cover it up relatively simply by styling, but I'm worried about continuation. Most of the hairs that are in this area aren't at full thickness anyway, but at the same time aren't fully miniaturised, and them not being there is at least noticeable to me. Definitely so when wet. I was wondering if anybody else had experienced this, and if these missing hairs are simply part of pre-shed, and should grow back in thicker. I know its hard to predict, but any past experience/ advice would be appreciated.
Background: I'm a 19 year old who has had hair loss since I was 16, so 3 years now. Its been relatively slow, and its not to the point where its noticed by other people (with the exception of one friend who has the exact same pattern). Thats partially due to styling, its definitely obvious when wet. I think my hair grows in thick, even if its thin in hair number/individual hair density, if that makes sense (hopefully that bodes well for a future HT, but obviously I'm not considering that anywhere near my age). It's primarily frontal loss, but there is slight diffuse thinning in the usual pattern. I've been using 5% minoxidil for 2 years on and off, but have been using it continuously for about 9 months now. I've also started using Nizoral 2x weekly since I've been on fin. My focus is on retention rather than regrowth.
I know pictures help, but I honestly can't bring myself to take them. I know it'll bum me out, and I'm pretty good at being objective about hair count regardless. I understand the science behind hair loss perfectly well, I'm a second year med student and read journals on MPB frequently, hoping for a little optimism. I guess I'm just looking for something empirical on what I'm experiencing.
Thanks for reading/hopefully responding.