Duration of the Dread Shed Phase in Minoxidil Treatment
The dread shed phase in minoxidil treatment typically lasts 2-8 weeks, with most patients experiencing resolution by 3-4 months after starting treatment. 1
What is the Dread Shed Phase?
- The dread shed phase refers to a temporary increase in hair shedding that occurs when first beginning minoxidil treatment 1
- This increased shedding is a sign that the medication is working - old hairs are being shed to make way for new hair growth 1
- This phenomenon is expected and is part of the process for how minoxidil regrows hair 1
Timeline of the Dread Shed Phase
- Initial shedding typically begins within the first few days to weeks of starting minoxidil treatment 1
- The shedding phase usually lasts up to 2 weeks according to the FDA drug label 1
- If shedding continues beyond 2 weeks, patients should consult their doctor 1
- Most patients begin to see positive results (decreased shedding, new hair growth) between 2-4 months of consistent use 1, 2
Factors That May Influence Duration
- Individual response varies significantly between patients 1
- Concentration of minoxidil used (2% vs 5%) may affect the intensity but not necessarily the duration of shedding 3, 4
- Consistency of application (once vs twice daily) can impact overall efficacy and potentially the shedding phase 2
- Pre-existing hair conditions (androgenetic alopecia vs telogen effluvium) may influence the shedding response 5
What to Expect After the Dread Shed Phase
- Initial hair growth is usually soft, downy, colorless hairs (like peach fuzz) 1
- With continued use, new hairs should eventually match the color and thickness of other scalp hairs 1
- Visible results typically appear after 4 months of consistent use 1, 2
- Maximum results are generally seen around 12 months of treatment 2
Important Considerations
- Discontinuing minoxidil will result in loss of newly regrown hair within 3-4 months 1
- Continuous use is necessary to maintain hair regrowth benefits 1, 2
- Missing occasional doses will not significantly impact long-term results, but patients should continue with the next scheduled application 1
- If no improvement is seen after 4 months of consistent use, patients should consider discontinuing treatment 1
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Stopping treatment prematurely due to initial increased shedding 1
- Using more product or applying more frequently than directed (will not improve results but may increase side effects) 1
- Inconsistent application leading to suboptimal results 2
- Failure to recognize that continued use is required to maintain results 1, 2