An unwanted hair grew on my forehead and under eye after using minoxidil for a month, will it continue to grow?

Question

Hi! So I have a problem. My vellus hair on my forehead and under the eye and slightly on my cheek started to grow after using minoxidil on my receding hairline and bald spot. I immediately stopped using. I'm scared that the slightly thickened vellus hair will remain forever on my face and might need to undergo laser hair removal which is kinda expensive for a student like me. Anyways, I'm confused that the vellus hair that grew under my eye and cheek only happened in the left side of my face.

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

The gains made on medical therapy such as Minoxidil are dependent on continued use. Cessation in therapy will result either in resumption of losses or alternatively loss of gain. This is true of both wanted and unwanted growth.As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS) with experience in hair restoration.Donovan Rosas MD
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Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

The vellus hair will eventually fall out again but it could take time. There are many other hair removal options besides laser so be sure to review your situation with a dermatologist

Matt Tahsini, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. When you take Minoxidil there is a chance hair will grow on your face. If you stop taking it that will stop but the hair on your head will stop growing as well. You need to see what he is more important to you.Best wishes. Dr. T

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

When minoxidil gets absorbed into your body through a skin application, it may produce facial hair as a side effect.  If you stop the minoxidil, the problem will slowly disappear

An unwanted hair grew on my forehead and under eye after using minoxidil for a month, will it continue to grow?

Answers (4)

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