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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Does Stopping Minoxidil Cause Excessive Hair Loss?

I have used minoxidil for a few years now. Twice a day was too disruptive, so combined the 5% and2% 1x a day (This works for my daughter as well). I mistakenly applied one dose on top of the other (not the same day). My scalp was very itchy, and scratching made it sore (not surprising). I can t seem to get beyond the tenderness. My dermatologist recommended 5% 3x week, but I think possibly it s still too strong. I m 75 and my mother and grandmother had thin hair. I hate to stop using this; would stopping minoxidil for a while (recommendations welcome!) cause too much hair loss? I don t use it when I have my hair colored. Sorry this is so long. Thanks, Sue Olson
Mon, 10 Aug 2015
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hi,
Welcome to HCM.
Use of minoxidil in excess will cause irritation of scalp and can cause itching, which you have experienced. Hence never use it in excess other than what is recommended.
Stopping minoxidil use temporarily will not cause hair loss. But if you continue to stop for long, then gradually you will start loosing your hair.
Hence advised better not to stop using it.
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Does Stopping Minoxidil Cause Excessive Hair Loss?

Hi, Welcome to HCM. Use of minoxidil in excess will cause irritation of scalp and can cause itching, which you have experienced. Hence never use it in excess other than what is recommended. Stopping minoxidil use temporarily will not cause hair loss. But if you continue to stop for long, then gradually you will start loosing your hair. Hence advised better not to stop using it.