Minoxidil: Is It Related to Male Pattern Baldness and Seborrheic Dermatitis?

Is there a relationship between the ingredient Minoxidil and androgenetic alopecia? & seborrheic dermatitis?

Due to severe long-term hair loss, I consulted a doctor who did not confirm whether I have androgenetic alopecia (as neither of my parents has thinning hair or baldness).
However, the doctor recommended using a 2% minoxidil solution for hair growth.
Since this ingredient is commonly used to treat androgenetic alopecia, does this imply that I have this condition?
Additionally, what are the differences between seborrheic dermatitis and oily hair type? For patients with seborrheic dermatitis, besides following the doctor's instructions on using appropriate shampoos and maintaining a regular routine, is there anything else they should particularly pay attention to?
Given that seborrheic dermatitis causes my hair to appear oily and flat, can I wash my hair twice a day? After using the minoxidil solution, I experienced severe scalp pain, and the doctor's diagnosis was made after this incident.
Could this be an allergic reaction to the medication? Should I stop using the minoxidil solution? Thank you.

Ann, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/01/25

Dr. Cai Changlin reply Dermatology

Hello, regarding your question, I would like to respond as follows: Minoxidil is indeed a commonly used topical medication for patients with androgenetic alopecia and is one of the few drugs that have been experimentally proven to be effective in treating this condition.
However, minoxidil is not limited to use in androgenetic alopecia; some studies have indicated that it may also be effective for other types of hair loss.
Therefore, your hair loss situation cannot be classified solely as androgenetic alopecia just because you are using minoxidil (of course, women can also experience androgenetic alopecia, but it is less common at your age).
The simplest way to address your concerns is to consult the physician who is treating you for a proper diagnosis.

Using minoxidil may lead to contact dermatitis; if this occurs, it is advisable to discontinue use and seek medical treatment.
Additionally, oily hair and seborrheic dermatitis are not entirely the same; using an appropriate shampoo can be beneficial for both conditions.
However, both can be attributed to individual constitution, making them difficult to completely eradicate.
Wishing you all the best.

Reply Date: 2008/01/25

More Info

Minoxidil is a topical medication commonly used to treat hair loss, particularly male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia). It works by promoting hair growth and is often recommended for individuals experiencing thinning hair or baldness. However, the relationship between minoxidil and male pattern baldness is not straightforward. While minoxidil can be effective for some individuals, it does not necessarily indicate that you have male pattern baldness if prescribed. The decision to use minoxidil may be based on your physician's assessment of your hair loss pattern and its severity, rather than a definitive diagnosis of androgenetic alopecia.

Regarding seborrheic dermatitis, it is a common skin condition characterized by red, flaky, and greasy patches, often occurring on the scalp, face, and other oily areas of the body. It can sometimes be confused with oily hair or scalp conditions. The key difference is that seborrheic dermatitis is a specific inflammatory skin condition, while oily hair is simply a result of excess sebum production. Individuals with oily hair may not necessarily have seborrheic dermatitis, but those with seborrheic dermatitis often experience oily scalp and hair.

If you have been diagnosed with seborrheic dermatitis, it is crucial to follow your doctor's recommendations regarding treatment, which may include medicated shampoos or topical treatments. In addition to using the prescribed products, maintaining a regular hair washing routine is essential. Washing your hair daily or every other day can help manage oiliness and reduce the buildup of flakes and irritation. If you find that washing your hair twice a day helps alleviate symptoms without causing excessive dryness or irritation, it may be acceptable, but it is best to consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Regarding your experience of scalp pain after using minoxidil, this could be a sign of irritation or an allergic reaction. Minoxidil can cause side effects, including itching, redness, and discomfort at the application site. If you are experiencing significant pain, it is advisable to stop using the product and consult your doctor. They may recommend an alternative treatment for your hair loss or suggest a different formulation of minoxidil that may be less irritating.

In summary, while minoxidil is commonly associated with male pattern baldness, its use does not confirm a diagnosis of androgenetic alopecia. Seborrheic dermatitis and oily hair are distinct conditions, and managing seborrheic dermatitis often requires a combination of proper hygiene and medicated treatments. If you experience adverse reactions to minoxidil, it is essential to seek medical advice to ensure your treatment plan is safe and effective. Always communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and any concerns regarding your treatment.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Male Pattern Baldness: Causes, Treatments, and Solutions

Hello, doctor! I have some concerns about my hair. Since childhood, I've had a strange substance covering my scalp that would bleed and ooze when scratched, but it improved after middle school. What could this condition be? Around my sophomore year of high school (5-6 years ...

Dr. Zheng Lizhen reply Dermatology
Hello: If you are concerned about your appearance and want to reduce hair loss, consider using medications such as finasteride or minoxidil. Otherwise, you can let nature take its course, and the issues you are worried about may not exist. Male pattern baldness can be diagnosed b...

Understanding Male Pattern Baldness: Treatment Effects and Concerns

Hello Doctor, after being treated by you, I have noticed that my hairline has slightly receded over the past six years. After using Minoxidil for 7 months along with a hair care solution, I have observed some improvement in the thinning hair at my forehead and hairline, with fine...

Dr. Jin Lianchun reply Dermatology
Hello, sir: 1. The dosage of Finasteride is a 1mg tablet, and the most suitable treatment for male pattern baldness is one tablet of 1mg per day. 2. According to multiple research studies, it does not affect sperm quality, and men taking it will not produce malformed children....

Understanding Male Pattern Baldness: Medication Effects and Alternatives

Hello, in recent years, I have been experiencing hair loss and visited the hospital. After a blood test, the doctor found that I have iron and zinc deficiencies (ferritin 28, zinc 680), but also noted that my hair loss appears to be genetically linked to androgenetic alopecia. Co...

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology
If male pattern baldness is confirmed, a combination of oral medication and topical hair growth solutions will yield the best results.

Understanding Male Pattern Baldness: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

What is the definition of male pattern baldness? I'm still relatively young, but I've been experiencing hair loss since around the age of 20. In my teenage years, I had dandruff on my scalp, but now I no longer have it. My hair loss is starting from the forehead to the ...

Dr. Zheng Lizhen reply Dermatology
Male pattern baldness is a phenomenon where hair gradually becomes sparse under the influence of male hormones. The concentration of male hormones in the body is normal, but the hair follicles are more sensitive to these hormones. Patients initially notice that their hair becomes...