I am losing my hair due to Accutane. Are there any options you can recommend to stop this?

Question

I have began using Women's Rogaine 5% Minoxidil Aerosol in a few of my problem areas. I have also been putting olive oil in my hair and scalp because my hair is so dry due to the medication. Is there anything else you can recommend for hair growth on Accutane, or a popular hair growth supplement that does not contain vitamin A?

Robert Nettles, MD · Answer

Minoxidil (the main drug in Rogaine) affects everyone differently.

While minoxidil works fine for the select few, the problem with the medicine is that it does not actually stop hair loss. Instead, DHT will continue is binding to the hair shaft which will eventually overtake any additional growth caused by the Minoxidil and die, perhaps just slightly later than it would have without the medicine.

Also, the alcohol base required to support the active ingredients also cause irritation of the scalp and severe reactions for many people, such as the increased shedding you are describing. The fact is that it does not work for everyone, and even if it does, not for long and not without side effects.

The number one first step I recommend is a comprehensive consultation with a hair regrowth specialist who will perform lab tests to determine the underlying cause of your thinning. Without labs, no-one can really know what your true cause is and any treatment will be temporary at best.

From here, you can receive the best treatment for your case.

I am losing my hair due to Accutane. Are there any options you can recommend to stop this?

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I am losing my hair due to Accutane. Are there any options you can recommend to stop this?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Hair Loss Treatment

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.