So, you’ve started using Minoxidil and suddenly you’re seeing more hair on your pillow or in the shower. Don’t worry, you’re not losing your hair overnight. What you’re probably experiencing is something called “Minoxidil shedding,” and though it might seem alarming, it often means the treatment is beginning to do its thing.
Understanding the difference between expected shedding and more worrisome hair loss is crucial to sticking with your treatment and setting the right expectations.
What Is Minoxidil and How Does It Work?
Minoxidil is a topical solution that tackles male pattern baldness by boosting blood flow to your hair follicles, extending the growth (anagen) phase of the hair cycle. It’s popular for reducing shedding, keeping existing hair, and in many cases, encouraging growth.
People often aren’t aware that an early sign of Minoxidil working can be increased shedding. It might seem counterintuitive, but this initial phase is a natural part of hitting the reset button on your hair growth cycle.
Why Does Minoxidil Cause Shedding?
To get a grip on Minoxidil shedding, it’s helpful to know how your hair naturally operates:
Growth phase (anagen): Hair grows from the follicle for several years.
Transition phase (catagen): Hair stops growing, but stays put.
Resting/shedding phase (telogen): Hair eventually sheds and the cycle kicks off again.
When you apply Minoxidil, it wakes up dormant or weakening follicles to jump into the growth phase sooner. This means hairs that were chilling in the resting phase get pushed out to make space for new growth.
That’s what causes the shedding—and while it might look like you’re going backwards, it’s usually the first step in moving forward.
How Much Shedding Is Normal?
Minoxidil-related shedding usually kicks in within the first 2–6 weeks of use. During this period, you might notice:
- More hair falling while you brush or wash
- Extra hair on your pillow in the morning
- Slight thinning, particularly in treated areas
Everyone’s different, but most guys lose 30–100 extra hairs per day during the initial shedding phase. This can go on for 2–4 weeks before it tapers off.
After this phase, hair loss should slow down, and over the coming months, regrowth should start to be noticeable—typically within 3–6 months of using it consistently.
When Should You Be Concerned?
While initial shedding is normal, here are a few cases where you might want to rethink your treatment:
- Shedding goes beyond 6–8 weeks without any signs of slowing down
- Hair loss seems to worsen noticeably or spreads to new spots
- You feel irritation or inflammation on your scalp (e.g., itching, burning, redness)
- You’re not using the product regularly or have stopped and started again
In any of these situations, it’s a good idea to reach out to a healthcare professional. Sons offers clinical consultations that can assess if your treatment plan is on point—or if it needs some tweaks.
Tips for Managing the Shedding Phase
Sticking with it through the shedding phase is crucial. Here’s how to handle it:
Trust the Process: Shedding is usually a sign that Minoxidil is kicking in. It means older, weaker hairs are being swapped out for stronger ones.
Be Consistent: Apply Minoxidil twice daily, every day, without missing a beat. Being inconsistent can mess up the cycle and make shedding last longer.
Avoid Harsh Hair Products: Stick to gentle shampoos and ditch heavy styling products during the early treatment phase to ease irritation.
Document Your Journey: Take monthly pics of your hairline and crown. Progress is often subtle and easier to track visually over time.
Hang in There for 6+ Months: Most users don’t notice major results until after 3–6 months. Some keep seeing improvements for up to a year.
What If You Stop Using Minoxidil?
One important thing to note: Minoxidil isn’t a permanent fix. If you stop using it, any regrowth you’ve had will likely be lost within a few months, and the hair loss process will pick back up.
That’s why it’s seen as a long-term treatment. Think of it like brushing your teeth—it only works if you keep at it.
Are There Alternatives or Supplements to Minoxidil?
If Minoxidil alone isn’t cutting it for you—or if you’re after a more comprehensive approach—other options are available:
Finasteride: A DHT-blocking treatment often used alongside Minoxidil.
Oral Minoxidil: Prescribed off-label in low doses for whole-body use.
Microneedling: A technique for improving topical Minoxidil absorption and stimulating follicles.
Supplements and Scalp Health Products: Targeting nutritional and environmental factors contributing to hair loss.
You can dive into these options and chat with a licensed clinician through the Sons platform, where personalised plans are on offer.
Final Thoughts: Patience Is Key
Noticing more hair fall after starting Minoxidil can be unsettling—but it’s often the start of real progress. Shedding signals that your follicles are waking up and gearing up for stronger, longer-lasting growth.
The key is to be consistent, informed, and patient. Stick with the treatment for a few months, keep an eye on your progress, and talk to a professional if you’re unsure about what’s happening.
Hair regrowth is a journey—but with the right tools and expectations, you’re already well on your way.