Minoxidil was applied to a single miniaturized hairfollicle over four months, resulting in less miniaturization but not yet terminal growth. The user used a 5% minoxidil solution, specifically the Regaine brand, and observed changes using a handheld WiFi microscope.
Tretinoin can cause non-telogen hair loss in some men by inducing catagen-like changes in hairfollicles and through retinoid toxicity, especially when used with minoxidil. Some users report hair loss even when using retinoids on the face, while others experience benefits when combined with treatments like finasteride and minoxidil.
Minoxidil increases blood supply to the scalp, strengthening dormant follicles and extending the growth phase, but may increase scalp activity that can be countered with DHT blockers. Women experiencing side effects from finasteride or dutasteride for hair loss might consider alternatives like estrogen, especially if on birth control.
Blocking DHT is not a cure for hair loss; instead, altering how scalp follicles respond to DHT might be more effective. Current treatments like topical finasteride and minoxidil are temporary solutions, and future approaches may involve gene therapy and bioengineering to changefollicle behavior.
Hairfollicles can be dormant and potentially revived with treatments like finasteride and minoxidil, but irreversible loss occurs if certain structures are destroyed. Early intervention is more effective, and additional methods like microneedling may help.