Minoxidil

The pharmaceutical treatment of hair loss

Minoxidil is the most effective and safest solution against hair loss, approved by the FDA. Applied topically, it increases blood flow to the hair follicles and enhances hair growth in 94% cases.

In what cases does it apply?

Minoxidil effectively treats androgenetic alopecia and alopecia areata. It is safe for men and women in the early stages of hair loss and is applied topically in the form of a lotion or foam (2% for women, 5% for men). It provides visible hair growth in 3-4 months.

How does minoxidil work?

Minoxidil is a vasodilator, meaning it dilates blood vessels, improving blood circulation to the scalp. This allows oxygen and nutrients to reach the hair follicles more easily, stimulating hair growth.

It does not work in areas without active hair follicles (such as completely bald areas).

At the same time, it affects the hair life cycle:

  • Shortens the telogen phase (rest)

  • Prolongs the anagen phase (development)

This means that more hairs remain in the growth phase for longer, resulting in fuller, thicker, and denser hair.

Its action is combined: it enhances blood flow and optimizes the hair life cycle, leading to a noticeably better appearance of the scalp.

For more effective action

3 tips to maximize the action of minoxidil

Early treatment

The sooner you start treatment with minoxidil, the better the results will be. Minoxidil prolongs the hair growth phase and keeps your hair follicles active for longer, protecting them from premature shrinkage (a process known as miniaturization) and the inability to produce healthy, large-diameter hair.

Combined use of finasteride

Finasteride is another treatment for androgenetic alopecia in men. It works by blocking the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the hormone responsible for male pattern baldness. The combination of minoxidil and finasteride is more effective than either drug alone.

Correct application

Applying minoxidil is simple, but some mistakes can make it less effective and increase the risk of side effects. Follow the instructions below for the correct application of minoxidil lotion and foam respectively. Remember that minoxidil formulations are designed to be applied twice a day.

Steps for the correct application of minoxidil

Minoxidil lotion

1. Before applying minoxidil, make sure your hair is completely dry. If you have showered, dry it thoroughly.

2. Using the lotion dropper, pump 1ml of minoxidil and distribute it to the areas of the scalp where hair loss is most noticeable. Try to part your hair in different parts so that the minoxidil comes into contact with the scalp more easily.

3. Massage the scalp at the application points and then soap your hands well.

Minoxidil foam

1. Make sure your hair is dry. Before applying the foam, gently part your hair to help the foam reach the scalp more easily.

2. Hold the container upside down and gently squeeze the spout until a walnut-sized amount comes out onto your fingers.

3. Using your fingers, gently apply the foam to the areas of hair loss, massaging in. Finally, rinse your hands thoroughly.

Instructions after applying minoxidil

  • After applying minoxidil, allow 4 hours for the medicine to dry before using a hair dryer or washing your hair.
  • If you forget an application, then replace it as soon as you remember, unless it is very close to the time of the next application, in which case you will skip the missed dose and continue normally with the next one.
  • Minoxidil is designed and tested for use on the scalp. If you accidentally apply it to the face, eyes, or other sensitive areas of the body, rinse the area thoroughly with cold water to avoid irritation.
  • Remember, there is no reason to use minoxidil more than twice a day. Overuse will not improve results, but it may increase the chances of skin irritation or other side effects. Follow the recommended dosage and limit yourself to two applications per day.

Frequently Asked Questions

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When will I see results?

Minoxidil starts working immediately after application, but its mechanism of action is such that the results are not immediately visible. In the first period you may notice slightly increased hair loss, as the hairs quickly complete their life cycle to begin the new growth phase. This is a normal phenomenon that should not cause you to panic. It will take about 3 months of regular use of minoxidil before you start to notice a change in your hair, which will steadily improve over the following months, offering the most spectacular results after a full year of treatment. It is important to be patient and not stop using minoxidil because you do not notice a change in your hair from one day to the next.

Does it have side effects?

Minoxidil is a safe and effective medication for most people. However, like all medications, it can cause some side effects, although they are very mild. The most common are skin irritation, dry skin, peeling, itching, and burning.

Does minoxidil increase hair thickness?

Yes. Minoxidil increases hair thickness by enlarging shrunken hair follicles and producing stronger, healthier hair shafts. Increased hair thickness makes a big difference in density.

Can I use minoxidil and finasteride together?

Yes, minoxidil and finasteride can be used together by men, as finasteride is approved for use only in men. Studies have shown that the combination is more effective than either alone. However, it is important to distinguish the way each works. Finasteride blocks the progression of hair loss, while minoxidil keeps existing hair alive.

Does minoxidil increase beard hair growth?

No. Minoxidil should not be used to promote facial hair growth. Minoxidil is only approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use on the scalp, and clinical trials for use on beards are virtually nonexistent. The only study completed using minoxidil on beards showed little difference between the active ingredient and a placebo.