Clinical Utility and Validity of Minoxidil Response Testing in Androgenetic Alopecia

Minoxidil may inhibit androgen receptors and affect hormonal pathways, potentially explaining its effectiveness in treating androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Users discuss its varying effectiveness on scalp versus facial hair and note fewer side effects with topical use compared to oral.

The user is using oral finasteride, oral minoxidil, ketoconazole shampoo, and various supplements to stabilize hair loss and thicken hair. They are considering using minoxidil foam on their beard to address empty patches but are concerned about side effects.

A 31-year-old male experienced significant hair regrowth on his crown after using oral minoxidil (initially 1.25 mg, increased to 2.5 mg, then reduced back to 1.25 mg) and finasteride (1 mg), without side effects except increased hair on arms, beard, and eyelashes. He also used anaphase conditioner and shampoo but no derma rolling or additional multivitamins.

Minoxidil alone may not stop hair loss. Finasteride is recommended for androgenic alopecia, as minoxidil doesn't prevent DHT from miniaturizing hair follicles.

A 27-year-old male has been using 1mg finasteride and 2.5mg oral minoxidil daily for androgenetic alopecia, seeing good results in 3 months but experiencing thinning and density loss. He seeks advice on his Norwood scale level and when density might return.

An 18-year-old male with a family history of baldness started using 5% minoxidil and 0.01% finasteride spray for hair loss. Suggestions included getting a blood test, considering oral dutasteride, and trying oral minoxidil.