Can I use Minoxidil for my androgenetic alopecia?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 23, and I have androgenetic alopecia and essential tremor, which is not very severe, but it is hereditary, and all of these were diagnosed when I was 17.

My hair has receded quite a bit, and I have a small bald crown, but my focus is on the top of the scalp, where there is thinning and miniaturized hair.

I have started using Isdin hair lotion serum and shampoo; Isdin saw palmetto capsules; and a moisturizing conditioner that has stuff like rosemary, biotin, pumpkin seed, and so on. I also use Redensyl.

What I want to know is whether Minoxidil is safe for people diagnosed with essential tremor.
If I can use Minoxidil along with my other two serums, does that mean Minoxidil, Isdin, and Redensyl all once a day?
Does topical Finasteride still possess the same risk as oral Finasteride?
I also use Perfectil hair vitamin, MSM, marine collagen, and omega-3. I have been using it for three weeks. So I want to know more about Minoxidil.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and can understand your concern.

Alright, let us break this down carefully so you get the full picture, especially since you have both androgenetic alopecia (genetically influenced hair loss driven by androgen hormones) and essential tremor (a common, often inherited, neurological disorder causing involuntary, rhythmic shaking, most notably in the hands and arms during movement) and are already on quite an extensive hair-support regimen.

Minoxidil (topical) is generally considered safe for people with essential tremor because it is applied locally to the scalp, and systemic absorption is minimal (about one to two percent of the applied dose). It does not act directly on the nervous system in a way that would worsen tremors.

However, rarely, people can experience systemic side effects from topical Minoxidil, such as

Dizziness.
Low blood pressure.
Fast heartbeat.

Fluid retention if absorption is high (for example, using too much, applying to broken skin, or using a high concentration).

So my advice is that you can use it along with other topical medications.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.