Losing a Lot of Hair Since Stopping Accutane

I recently stopped taking accutane (40 days off) and have been shedding massive amounts of hair since (150-250 a day) I stopped. The loss is becoming gradually more noticeable and is accompanied by an irritated scalp. The bang/temple/over ear areas have suffered heavy loss, as well as the upper back of my head. This has been clearly triggered by the accutane.

What advice can you give me and can you suggest any hair specialists for a consulation on my condition and symptoms in my area (NY)? Your help is greatly appreciated.

Hair loss from drug related causes (while rare) should stop and reverse when the drugs are stopped, but this process can take months (up to a year). In the case of Accuane (isotretinoin), many people report that it caused permanent hair loss, but more likely is that it started the genetic process earlier. Aside from stopping the medication, there is not much you can do. Talk to your prescribing doctor about that.

Most people will try many products with high hopes thinking it’s worth a try, but many will be disappointed. Patience is your best friend in cases like this. If you would like to see a specialist in the New York area, I would recommend my associate Dr. Robert Bernstein.