community Extreme shedding after ~1 year on 5% topical minoxidil — normal or problem?
A 17-year-old using 5% topical minoxidil experienced significant hair shedding after a year, possibly due to a "synchronization shed" and deficiencies in vitamin D and iron. Recommendations include continuing minoxidil, optimizing vitamin D and iron levels, and reducing tretinoin use if scalp irritation occurs.