A Reader’s Minoxidil Theory

Hi Dr.,

After much consideration, I’ve decided to stop using minoxidil. And, as expected, I am now losing hairs the minoxidil was saving. But I suspect that some of the hair I’m losing now will grow back later.

My guess is that minoxidil lengthens the anagen phase for all hairs – indiscriminately – thus delaying those hairs’ telogen phases. And so, some of the hairs I’m losing post-minoxidil are “healthy” hairs whose telogen phases were delayed. Thus, I should regrow at least some of the hairs I’m losing post-minoxidil.

Do you agree?

No, I do not agree. People who develop minoxidil dependent hair will lose their hair if the drug is withdrawn and it will not grow back. If you don’t believe me, just wait a few months and I am sure you will be converted to my thoughts on your problem.