Is Minoxidil, the savior of hair loss, really effective?

Apr 02,2025 | AGERIOS OFFICAL

Description

Minoxidil applied to the scalp is used to stimulate hair growth in adult men and women with a certain type of baldness.

1.What is Minoxidil used for?

In topical shampoos used to treat hair loss, the FDA-approved medication Minoxidil promotes blood and oxygen flow to the hair follicles. While hair loss is still in its early stages, minoxidil can aid in hair growth and stop further balding. To be more specific, minoxidil,

Prevents hair loss
Stimulates tiny blood vessels resulting in hair growth
Prolongs the anagen phase of the hair development cycle.

If hair growth is going to occur with the use of minoxidil, it usually occurs after the medicine has been used for several months and lasts only as long as the medicine continues to be used. Hair loss will begin again within a few months after minoxidil treatment is stopped.

Common dosage forms and concentrations:
1) External solution or foam: 2% (commonly used by women), 5% (commonly used by men, and under the guidance of doctors for women).
2) Oral tablets: only used for hypertension, not recommended for the treatment of hair loss.

2. Does minoxidil regrow all hair?

The effectiveness of minoxidil may vary among individuals. Although minoxidil can slow down and prevent hair loss, the amount of hair regrowth will vary.

Minoxidil is not a cure for hair loss. Once a person stops using this treatment, the body will most likely shed any new hair.

3. Health Assessment Before Use

3.1 Taboo population:

1) Pregnant and lactating women (may be absorbed and affect the fetus).

2) Adolescents under 18 years old (safety unclear).

3) Patients with scalp damage, inflammation or infection (such as dermatitis, eczema) need to be treated first.

3.2 Use with caution:

1) Patients with heart disease and hypotension (especially when taking minoxidil orally).

2) People who are allergic to propylene glycol or alcohol (can choose formulas that do not contain propylene glycol).

4. How to Apply Minoxidil Correctly

1). Prepare Your Scalp

Ensure hair and scalp are completely dry (not damp from showering/sweating).
Part hair to expose the thinning/balding area for direct application.

2). Measure the Dose

Use the dropper or applicator provided.
Standard dose: 1 mL (usually 6-7 sprays or fills the dropper to the marked line).

3). Apply to Scalp (Not Hair!)

Start at the center of the treatment area, gently spreading outward.
Use fingertips or applicator to massage lightly—do not rub aggressively.

4). Post-Application Care

Wash hands immediately to avoid transferring minoxidil to face/body (can cause unwanted hair growth).
Wait 2–4 hours before:
- Washing hair/showering (minimum 4 hours).
- Lying down (to prevent staining pillows/bedding).
Avoid hairdryers—heat can break down minoxidil and reduce effectiveness.

5). Avoid Common Mistakes

❌ Do not apply to wet scalp (reduces absorption).
❌ Do not overuse (more than 1 mL twice daily won’t speed up results but increases side effects).
❌ Do not let the solution drip onto your face (wipe off immediately if it does).

Extra Tips for Best Results

Consistency is key: Use twice daily (e.g., morning and evening) for at least 3–6 months to see results.
Stains? Minoxidil can discolor fabrics—wear dark pillowcases or wait until fully dry before bed.
Side effects? If scalp gets red/itchy, switch to the foam version (less irritating than liquid).

Note: If you miss a dose, skip it—do not double up. Always follow your doctor’s instructions over general guidelines.

5. What are the side-effects of Minoxidil?

Although not all of the below side effects are probable, if they do manifest, they may need medical attention. See your doctor right away if any of the following negative symptoms manifest themselves:

Rashes or itching on the skin
Acne at the application site
Scalp burning
Hair growth in the facial area
Increasing baldness
Inflamed or irritated skin close to the hair follicles
Blurriness or other changes in vision
Chest discomfort
Dizziness, fainting
Rapid heartbeat
Headache
Edema on the face, hands, feet, or lower legs
Rapid weight gain

In order to reduce side effects, many consumers usually use plant-based shampoos, which are safe and convenient:

Plant Extract Hair Growth Shampoo

6. What are the other medications that prevent hair loss?

Another option to replace Minoxidil is Finasteride. It is a daily medication that you can take. The hair loss of many men using finasteride slows down, and some even report fresh hair growth. Before you can determine if it’s working for you, it can take a few months. To see benefits, you must continue taking it. For males over 60, finasteride might not operate as well. Reduced sexual function, as well as an increased risk of prostate cancer, are rare side effects of finasteride. Apart from Finasteride, there are other oral options such as Sprinolactone (Carospir, Aldactone) and oral Dutasteride (Avodart).

To learn more about how Minoxidil works, continue reading.

7. What else do I need to know?

Minoxidil won't work well for everyone. Early in treatment you might notice a temporary increase in hair shedding, as it alters the hair cycle to make way for new growth. Minoxidil needs to be trialled for three to six months to determine if it's effective.

And as it doesn't cure hair loss, you must continue to use it each day to maintain the effect. If you stop, you will start losing the new hair growth within three to four months.

Minoxidil products may not be suitable for everyone. If you have any medical conditions or take any medications, you should speak with your doctor or pharmacist before using minoxidil products.

It has not been tested for safety in people under 18, over 65, or those who are pregnant.

You can read the consumer medicines information sheet for more information about using over-the-counter minoxidil products.

Many people do not like to use minoxidil solution or foams long term because they need to be applied every day, which can be inconvenient. Or they may notice side effects, such as scalp irritation and changes to hair texture.

Some people tolerate the foam products better than the solution, as the solution contains more of a compound called propylene glycol (which can irritate the skin).

Can I leave minoxidil on during the night?

A person should use minoxidil twice a day, usually with a 12-hour interval between applications. However, a person should follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that they are using the treatment correctly.

It is fine to leave minoxidil on during the night. However, a person should ensure that the minoxidil is completely dry before going to bed to prevent the treatment from rubbing off onto the pillow.

Is minoxidil safe for long-term use?

Minoxidil is safe for long-term use as long as a person never exceeds the recommended dosage.

A person should keep a list of all prescription drugs, nonprescription medications, and supplements they are using and take this with them when they see a doctor or go to the hospital. It is important for a medical professional to know which medications a person is taking to ensure that there are no adverse drug interactions.

Summary

Hair loss troubles countless people, and minoxidil, as the most widely used topical hair growth medication, has indeed brought hope to many people. But please remember: it is effective, but not omnipotent. Hair loss treatment is a game of patience and science, and minoxidil is just one of the tools. Before use, it is recommended to consult a doctor to clarify the type of hair loss and develop a personalized plan.

Your hair deserves to be taken seriously, but there's no need to worry - scientific hair care, rational hair growth!

(If you need to further understand the treatment plan that suits you, please feel free to leave a message in the comment section for discussion!)