My story.

[mattj]

Nizoral won't be harmful if you aren't losing hair. It's made to treat dandruff. I would recommend using it as directed, every three days, because it can cause dryness of the scalp.

Harsh styling treatments can cause some hairloss, but it usually grows back. I'm unclear as to whether you have any noticeable hairloss. Do you have a receded hairline, a bald spot forming at the crown or any noticeable loss of density anywhere?

It sounds like the hairs you're seeing in the shower are the basis for your worries. It's normal to lose hairs. Your friends who claim to see only 5 might simply be missing the rest.

Based on the information you've given us, it's impossible to conclude whether you are or are not losing hair. You've provided nothing to suggest that you really need to worry. I would just keep an eye on your hair for any of the above-mentioned changes, but don't obsess over it.