randy

Thanks for the feedback guys. I started Rogaine and if any progression in my receding hairline continues I will get on Finasteride!

Minoxidil originated as medication for hypertension and one of the side effects for its adminstration was increased hair growth. There are many more side effects to minoxidil, than what you listed there. These are two different catergories of drugs. One is vasodialotor and the other one adjusts the level of DHT (hormones) in your blood serum. There are not any contraindications for the combination of the both, but I imagine like in all things there can be isolated incidents of compounded risks. N.B. I AM NOT A MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL. PLEASE CONSULT ONE FOR THE USE OF ANY MEDICATION. Thanks for the info mmhce.

Hey thanks for your replies. I did some research and understand the potential side effects of Finasteride, but does Rogaine have side effects? The booklet only said some skin irritation, facial hair growth in women. Does using both together compound the risk for side effects?

Hey Mr. GQ, thanks for the response. I have no reason to assume that my doctor is uninformed about MPB. I was happy he agreed with me that my hairline is receding and gave me a suggestion such as Rogaine rather than dismiss my worries as an exaggerated reaction to a maturing hairline. However, I think I will get a second opinion from another dermatologist. Do you know of any good sites that recommend reputable dermatologists in the surrounding area? Also, the doc told me to get Rogaine Extra Strength, or, 5% Minoxidil like you say. The doctor said it's more of a preventative measure rather than a means of regrowing hair. I understand this, but is it POSSIBLE for Rogaine to also regrow hair as it claims? I'm definitely going to keep a close eye on my hairline. If it gets any worse than I will definitely get my hands on Finesteride. BTW...what do you think of a hair transplant as an option given my age and amount of recession? THANKS!

Okay so today I went to my dermatologist since I have noticed a progressively receding hairline. Nothing too bad (if my hair stayed like this the rest of my life I would be satisfied), but enough of a recession since my teen years to cause concern. I just turned 21 and as of right now am looking for a preventive, non-surgical means of combating my hair loss. So I went for my appointment with the dermatologist and he looked at my hair. He suggested I use Rogaine for my hairline, which I found surprising since I read Rogaine is not for the front but for the top of the scalp. He said this was a misconception and that it will work for the front as well. I asked him about Propecia, and he said he generally prescribes that for people with more extensive hair loss. I was disappointed/relieved at the same time. Relieved because I didn't like the idea of taking a pill to begin with, but disappointed because my research had put me under the impression that for my type of hair loss, Propecia would be my best bet. Pictures of my hairline can be seen here. Should I really push for Propecia and find a doctor who WILL prescribe it for me? Or do you guys think Rogaine will be appropriate/affective? Also, what do you guys think of a hair-transplant based on my age and my extent of hair loss? Would it be something to consider looking into? Thanks!

Well hairdoyle I may take the same route as you... I'm going to speak with my dermatologist and see what he has to say. I also made a consultation appointment with Dr. Feller...I am lucky enough to live very close to one of his offices in Great Neck, NY. I'll get their opinions and take it from there.

My dad has a decent head of hair and he's reached the age of 60 now, but I can definitely notice a bad hairline on his head. Much like me, he has thick hair, just a bad hairline that recedes around the temple area. I mean...if I end up like him I guess I'm fortunate since he's maintained decent hair for his age. But for me at 21, I am not satisfied at all. Also, I agree and am open to the fact that it could be early MPB. However, I am reluctant to take medication. I hate taking medicine and am worried about potentially harmful side effects although I admit I am pretty ignorant on hair restoration treatment. Should I go to my dermatologist to determine treatment?

Did you get grafts while your hairline looked similar to mine or after it got worse?

Thanks for the input guys... I need to make an appointment with my dermatologist anyway, so I will discuss my hairline with him when I do this. Thanks again!

I'm 21 years old and am becoming increasingly dissatisfied with my hair. I notice a more prominent receding line since my younger years, but have thus far been comforting myself by saying it is natural hair recession from maturation and nothing more. However, I don't like being dishonest with myself. Do you guys think I'm on the path to balding? Here are some pics of my hair combed back and hairline exposed... Front shots... Right side shots... Left side shots... Any suggested methods of improving my hairline?