23 yrs old and losing hair

[alc819]

I'm 23 years old and have always had thick hair, but I now have developed a pretty significant bald spot on top of my head. I am also receding at the temples, but Im not as concerned with this. My bald spot looks AWFUL if I dont buzz my head once a week. Does buzzing my hair actually make the spot worse because I am removing the little amount of hair that grows there while the hair around it continues to regrow? I have been studying these boards for a few months now, and my options right now are...
-Seeing my primary care physician
-Seeing a derm
-Getting on finasteride, minoxidil, and nizoral by ordering them online.

I really want to avoid seeing a doctor, and was wondering if most people see a doctor before using these products. Also, would simply applying minoxidil to the spot be effective, so I would avoid the side effects with finasteride. Any input would be great.

 

[jfhawk06]

well minoxidil can work relatively well on crown bald spots (the place where minoxidil has been proven to work effectively). propecia is your best bet for maintenance because minoxidil does not fight the scientific portion of male pattern baldness (DHT). i'd say get on the big three asap, but i'd see a Doctor first to rule out Telogen Effluvium or other freak issues. IMO, it sounds like male pattern baldness though.

 

[alc819]

There is no doubt that this is male pattern baldness, its hereditary and runs in my family. My dad has the exact same spot. I just wanted to know if it is ok to go on the big three without seeing a doctor, and was wondering if most people on here use a doctor or just order their regimen. Also, would applying minoxidil to the crown help, while I decided on whether to get propecia or not.

 

[Billmartini]

how bad is the bald spot? i have shaggy hair and conceal mine for the most part just cause of all the hair lying on itself. i'm terrified of shaving my hair cause I think there will be an obvious horseshoe.

 

[20sometingtoo]

I'd say you probably should go to a Doctor. Just in case. At least see a derm first. If it is really bad, then go for the big three right away. If you've caught it early try finasteride first, then ramp up by adding minoxidil if you start to slip again.

 

[HairyPotter]

It sounds pretty much like male pattern baldness to me... I dont think you should see a Doctor, unless your still not sure whether its male pattern baldness.

Minoxidil (Rogaine) is known to work best on the vertex/crown so you should be a good candidate for it. BUT, like jfhawk said, your still not addressing the DHT part of your male pattern baldness.

If your really against going on finasteride, you should jump on Minoxidil first and after 6 months to a year if your not happy with your results then you should consider adding finasteride to the mix.

 

[marsbtchsx]

to be sure u should see a doctor.... but u technically can just get on the meds.. minoxidil is over the counter.... and if u dont mind getting finasteride off the net then go for it