Expert: Peter J. Panagotacos, <B>M.D.</B> - 7/3/2009

Question
Would it be considered hair loss if I have a slightly receding hairline but no real shedding or hair coming out in clumps? My hair has thinned around my temples and I have this dot like spot in the right side of my crown which pales in comparison to the rest of my hair. When I rub that spot it feels thinner compared to the rest of my crown, is there anything I can do about it? I started to experience all of this right after finishing a course of Accutane.

Thanks in advance.


Answer
Accutane can cause a shedding of hair which usually grows back within six months of stopping the medication. You should show the spot to your dermatologist to make sure you do not have an early spot of Alopecia Areata. The use of 5% minoxidil twice a day for the next four months will speed the regrowth of the lost hair.