Document any changes in your hair’s texture or thickness. Note if you experience increased shedding, particularly after showering or brushing. Look for overall thinning, rather than just in specific areas. Hair loss associated with Accutane often affects the entire scalp, resulting in a generalized decrease in hair density.
Recognizing the Signs
Pay close attention to the timing of hair changes. Hair loss usually begins several weeks to months after starting Accutane, and may continue for a period after treatment ends. Observe the type of hair loss. Accutane-related hair loss is typically telogen effluvium, a condition where more hairs than usual enter the resting phase, leading to increased shedding. This differs from other hair loss types like androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness).
Seeking Professional Help
Schedule an appointment with a dermatologist or trichologist. They can perform a thorough physical examination of your scalp and hair. They may also conduct a pull test to assess the amount of hair shedding. A blood test may be ordered to rule out other underlying medical conditions. Your doctor will consider your Accutane history and the characteristics of your hair loss to arrive at a diagnosis. Open communication with your dermatologist throughout the Accutane treatment is key for early detection and management of any potential side effects.
