Did Irritation from Rogaine Cause Damage?

Dear Doc,

Can Rogaine 5% cause damage to your scalp that will prevent hairs from coming back normally after the “shed”. I used it for 2 months and quit when the flaking got to be too much, I’m scared the irritation caused some damage because its been 4 months and the bald spot that was the area of application is still missing hair.

While anything is possible, I doubt irritation from Rogaine (minoxidil) will cause permanent damage and hair loss. I assume you were using Rogaine because you were losing hair. It may just be that you are still losing hair and are more sensitive and aware of it.