Hair Loss Remedies for Thinning Hair on aromatase inhibitors?

I was on several different aromatase inhibitors for 4 years and then switched to Tamoxifen hoping my joints would improve. My hair fell out in massive amounts. I ended up getting a "topper" that blended in with my remaining hair. I stopped the Tamoxifen and went back to Letrozole. My hair stopped falling out and slowly grew back in! Still on Letrozole for another 3.5 years. My joints hurt but I have hair!!!
I know that everyone experiences different side effects from AI's 🙁 Minoxidil works to keep your remaining hair from falling out. You must keep using it until you leave this earth.
Dermatologists can help you understand what is available currently. If you can get a few recommendations before you make an appointment, they might really help you navigate this cruel side effect.

Thank you for your response. I got the Rogaine suggested, but never used it. I was told it would not prevent the hair from falling out if I was still on the Exemestane. I prefer to lose it rather than have the thin brittle hair.

@roewes07 ,

Are you still taking the Minoxidil?

My dermatologist said it would help until I get my regrowth due to telogen effluvium (quick weight loss and anxiety). One would need to continue taking it indefinitely if the underlying cause continues, but not if it resolves. That was my understanding.

I am currently not on Minoxidil. You are 100% right about a continuous daily application IF the underlying cause is stress or a drug. But my philosophy is, I do what needs to be done to make sure I feel the best about myself. Sending only good wishes and strength to you‼️🌺

You are my people! I can only do what I can do and since my plate is pretty full right now, I so appreciate your encouragement.
Have a good one!

@sanantoniomimi, in addition to the great tips you've received from members, you may also be interested in this list of discussions related to hair loss and breast cancer:
- Hair loss https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/breast-cancer/?search=hair%20loss&index=discussions

I found these by going to the Breast Cancer support group main page https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/breast-cancer/ and entering search term in the search bar.

I can see that you have a full plate. I wonder if this might be helpful for you:
- Stress Management for Cancer: Free online course from Mayo Clinic
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/stress-management-for-cancer-free-online-course-from-mayo/
I don't want it to be a burden or obligation as your plate is full, but want you to know that it's there for you.

As you continue your journey, you will find many helpful discussions and members ready to share their experiences.

I had a lumpectomy in Jan 2021, followed by radiation and then started tamoxifen. It was effecting my liver, so I was switched to Exemestane.
I had a hysterectomy in 1990. The pathologist found uterine cancer starting in the lining of my uterus. No treatment was required. In 2001, I had surgery for diverticulitis, where cancer was found underneath. I had radiation and chem and was pronounced “Cancer free” in 2006.
Fast forward to Dec of 2020, cancer was discovered when I had my mammogram. Surgery was in Jan. 2021.
I have never suffered any side effects during treatments so to suddenly see my hair getting thin and losing most of it in several months has been a shock and adjustment. I am down to a very short amount, that seems to get shorter and shorter each week.
I will certainly seek out the site you suggested for stress.
Thank you very much for your response.

I was in for my regular dermatology appointment( besides breast cancer I have also had melanoma) and my doctor mentioned that she has been on the pill form of minoxidil. She also had breast cancer and was on anastrozole. I am waiting to talk to my oncologist when we meet next to ask about this. She mentioned that the pill form is better than the topical.

I have the pill form as well. I’m now thinking I may start it. Just to be in safe side.

I have been on Anastrozole for almost 10 months and experiencing severe hair loss