Oral minoxidil is a treatment option for various forms of hair loss, offering a systemic approach to stimulating hair growth. Many individuals starting this therapy experience “shedding,” which can be concerning. This article explains why oral minoxidil causes shedding and what this experience means for those undergoing treatment. Understanding this initial phase helps manage expectations and encourages adherence to the treatment plan.
The Hair Growth Cycle and Shedding
Hair follicles undergo a continuous cycle of growth and rest. This cycle consists of four main phases: anagen, catagen, telogen, and exogen. The anagen phase is the active growth period, lasting typically two to eight years, during which hair cells rapidly divide and hair grows at a rate of about one centimeter per month.
Following anagen, the catagen phase is a brief transitional period, usually lasting about two to three weeks, where hair growth slows and the follicle shrinks. This leads into the telogen phase, a resting period of approximately two to three months, where the hair remains in the follicle but does not grow. Finally, the exogen phase is the shedding phase, where old hairs are naturally released from the scalp. Losing 50 to 100 hairs per day is considered a normal part of this natural hair turnover.
How Oral Minoxidil Triggers Shedding
Oral minoxidil influences the hair growth cycle, leading to a temporary increase in hair shedding, often called the “minoxidil shed” or “dread shed.” This medication functions as a vasodilator, meaning it widens blood vessels, which increases blood flow and nutrient delivery to hair follicles. This improved supply of oxygen and nutrients nourishes and stimulates the follicles.
Oral minoxidil shortens the telogen (resting) phase and prematurely pushes hair follicles into the anagen (growth) phase. This rapid transition causes older hairs nearing the shedding phase to fall out. The shedding indicates the medication is working to synchronize hair follicles and make way for new, healthier growth.
Navigating the Shedding Experience
The initial increase in hair shedding, often called the “dread shed,” typically begins within two to eight weeks after starting oral minoxidil. While it can be distressing to see more hair fall out, this phase is generally temporary. Its duration commonly spans from two to six weeks, though some individuals might experience it for up to 12 weeks.
The intensity of shedding varies among individuals; some experience minimal shedding, while others notice a more significant increase in hair loss. This temporary shedding indicates hair follicles are responding to the medication and synchronizing their growth cycles. It is important to continue treatment during this period, as stopping could reverse progress and delay results.
What Comes After Shedding
Once the initial shedding phase subsides, individuals typically observe the emergence of new hair growth. These newly formed hairs may initially appear finer, but they tend to thicken and strengthen over time with continued treatment. Consistent adherence to the prescribed oral minoxidil dosage is necessary for sustaining results, as benefits cease if the medication is discontinued.
Noticeable hair growth can often be seen after approximately four months of consistent use. If shedding continues excessively for more than three to four months, or if no regrowth is observed, consult a healthcare professional. This could indicate an unrelated cause for shedding, or that the treatment plan needs adjustment.