Is my crown thinning at 24 y.o.? I've been using Finasteride for 4 years and Minoxidil for 1 year. (photos)

Question

I'm a 24 y.o and I've been diagnosed with AGA ever since I was 19 (frontal recession). I've been taking Fin (for 4 years) and it has done a good job of maintaining my NW2 hairline. As of 2019, I'm shedding at a much faster rate than the last few years (e.g.: I would notice 4 to 8 hairs on my pillow, in 2019 I'm averaging 20-30, with a record of 56 on my pillow last week - I counted). Even though I have a cowlick nearby, the spot seems to be widening and losing density with the increased shedding

Sanusi Umar, MD · Answer

Drugs like Minoxidil and Finasteride are meant to help manage and reduce the extent of hair loss. But they may not be equally effective across every individual case. Hair transplantation is another approach to consider.  At 24 years old, it is possible to qualify as a candidate if certain criteria are met. Younger patients have been encouraged to wait because they will continue to lose hair. And it is possible that the hair on their scalp may not be able to provide the coverage they may need if they reach severe Norwood 6-7 baldness. However, it the individual has enough body hair which can be harvested, this will expand their long term donor supply and act as an additional resource to prevent running out of grafts. Our office at the Dr.U Hair and Skin Clinics in Los Angeles is the developer of specialized technology for safely harvesting all types of hair follicles as viable grafts.

Jeff Rapaport, MD · Answer

I suggest you visit a hair loss expert who will do a good history and examination with microscopy to determine if you're undergoing miniaturization. Minoxidil and PRP can be added to your finasteride to diminish hair loss and possibly. improve regrowth.Jeff Rapaport MD FAADRealself All-star

Matt Tahsini, MD · Answer

Hello. I noticed you wrote in a few months back and was wondering how you’re doing. Did you see a hair loss specialist? If you haven’t you need to. I wish you the best.Dr. T

Piotr Osuch, MD · Answer

Yes, I observe slight thinning in your crown area. Some people are more predisposed to androgenic alopecia due to genetics and other factors. I highly recommend Low Level Laser treatment as an addition to your current regimen as I have noticed that it does help with reversing miniaturization of hair thinning out. Hope this information will help you!
Regards
Piotr Osuch, MD PhD

Is my crown thinning at 24 y.o.? I've been using Finasteride for 4 years and Minoxidil for 1 year. (photos)

Answers (4)