Can Minoxidil turn vellus hair into terminal hair in female AGA?

Question

I have been using minoxidil for 2.5 weeks now and see a shedding of vellus hairs. What are the chances that these vellus hairs will turn into terminal hair with the use on minoxidil?

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

There is initial shed with Minoxidil, but will ultimately lead to thicker hair. I recommend getting a consultation with a cosmetic dermatologist with experience in hair restoration and maintenance. There are some great options for hair restoration and maintenance like prp injections which can stimulate hair growth. Hope this helps.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Minoxidil may help create stronger hair, but results can vary. Starting Minoxidil will increase hair shedding and it can take up to 6 months to see results. I suggest seeing a hair loss expert now to evaluate and go over your condition and provide you information about your best treatment options. There are great non-invasive options like prp/progesterone and/or hair transplantation. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Ilhan Serdaroglu, MD · Answer

Minoxidil helps to stopping hair loss and thickening of hair although it may cause a little loss at beginning..But no  body  can say  that minox create a terminal hair from vellus.

Sara Salas, MD · Answer

The short answer is yes it can however we do not not know how much. Please do an in person consultation with a hair specialist to go over options.

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

I would need to know more information. Your age, duration of hair loss, amount of hair loss, pattern of hair loss all matter. But in general, yes, minoxidil can convert some vellus to terminal. In might be none or a small proportion. It can also prevent some of the terminal hairs from becoming vellus. About 25 % of women with earlier staged androgenetic alopecia feel minoxidil is beneficial.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

Minoxidil may turn some of the vellus hairs into stronger hairs, but they may not be full terminal hairs

Can Minoxidil turn vellus hair into terminal hair in female AGA?

Answers (6)

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