Case Report: Androgenetic Alopecia Management With Oral Minoxidil & Finasteride in a 30-Year-Old Male
Patient Presentation
A 30-year-old male presented to our dermatology clinic in Katy, Texas, with a chief complaint of generalized hair loss. The hair thinning began suddenly several months ago and has progressively worsened. The patient noted diffuse thinning across the scalp, with particular loss at the crown, a hallmark of male pattern hair loss.
He had not yet started any formal treatment prior to this visit.
Clinical Examination
A detailed examination of the scalp, face, head, and ears was performed using a dermatoscope. The patient was well-developed, well-nourished, and in no acute distress.
Findings included:
Diffuse, non-scarring hair thinning
Patterned hair loss over the vertex/crown
No signs of inflammation, scaling, or scarring alopecia
Based on clinical evaluation, the diagnosis was consistent with androgenetic alopecia (AGA).
During the exam, benign lentigines and a compound nevus were also noted.
Diagnoses
1. Androgenetic Alopecia (L64.8)
Diffuse non-scarring hair loss with vertex thinning.
2. Lentigines (L81.4)
Benign sun-induced pigmented lesions.
3. Compound Nevus (D22.62)
Benign flesh-colored papules on the skin.
Treatment Plan
1. Androgenetic Alopecia
An in-depth discussion covered all treatment options, including:
Oral minoxidil
Finasteride
Topical minoxidil (Rogaine)
Low-level laser therapy
Hair transplantation
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)
AlmaTED hair restoration
Hair supplements
The patient elected to begin:
✔ Oral Minoxidil
Start ½ tablet daily for 1 month
If tolerated, increase to 1 full tablet daily
Counseled on temporary shedding during the first 8–10 weeks
Advised to stop and contact the office if experiencing:
Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Leg/ankle swelling
Fast heart rate
Dizziness
Low blood pressure
Headaches
✔ Finasteride 1 mg once daily
Reviewed risks, including sexual side effects
Discussed long-term stabilization and thickening benefits
A follow-up will assess tolerance, progress, and potential need for adjunctive therapies.
2. Lentigines
Education and counseling included:
Lentigines are benign sun-induced lesions
Improve with:
Daily SPF 30+ sunscreen
Sun avoidance
Retinoids
Chemical peels
Laser therapy (recommended for best cosmetic improvement)
3. Compound Nevus
Benign
No treatment required
Recommended monthly self-skin checks
Use SPF 30+ sunscreen daily
Report changes in size, shape, color, itch, or bleeding
Discussion
Understanding Androgenetic Alopecia
Androgenetic alopecia is the most common form of hair loss in men and is genetically predetermined. It typically presents with:
Thinning at the vertex (crown)
Recession at the temples
Progressive miniaturization of hair follicles
Modern therapy focuses on slowing hair loss, thickening existing hair, and stimulating regrowth.
Oral minoxidil + finasteride is one of the most effective combinations and continues to gain popularity for its convenience and strong clinical results.
At Village Dermatology in Katy and Houston, TX, Dr. Reena Jogi provides individualized hair loss management using evidence-based medical and procedural therapies, including PRP and AlmaTED.
Conclusion
This case highlights the management approach for a 30-year-old male with androgenetic alopecia. With oral minoxidil and finasteride, the patient is expected to see stabilization and regrowth over the next several months. Ongoing monitoring ensures both treatment success and safety.
