Is it the liquid drying on my scalp and peeling itself off? Or is it dandruff?

Question

Greetings, I'm 19 years old and I've started using minoxidil for about a month now.. And I've been using it only once a day but I've been noticing something unusual, it's that I have been gaining dandruff-like flakes on my head after itching or after styling my hair the right way when I'm in public, and I'm not sure whether it's from over showering my hair everyday (after used minoxidil every night) in the morning, or its from the medicine itself that's causing this to happen, pls help!

William Woessner, MD · Answer

The dandruff-like scaling usually occurs only with the liquid. Try changing to a foam or vice versa. In my opiniion changing formulations may correct the scaling. If this does not help, then try using Nizoral 2% scalp shampoo regularly will often stop the scaling and prevent future problems. Do not use oily products on the scalp of dandruff is a problem.

Matt Tahsini, MD · Answer

Thank you for posting your question. It is very common for patients to experience dryness and flakes of the scalp when initially getting started on Minoxidil due to the alcohol content. It is a common side-effect of using Minoxidil, try using an organic based scalp conditioner as well, this might help. Thank you.

Ilhan Serdaroglu, MD · Answer

Minoxidil  contains alcohol in it and it causes dry skin and scaling.  Because of that using minoxidil may cause dandruff-like flakes on your head especially after itching.

Is it the liquid drying on my scalp and peeling itself off? Or is it dandruff?

Answers (3)

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Is it the liquid drying on my scalp and peeling itself off? Or is it dandruff?

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