Does Minoxidil Work for Hair Loss? A Comprehensive Review
Minoxidil is an FDA-approved medication that reduces hair loss and promotes hair growth for both men and women.
It was originally used as an antihypertensive medication, but hair growth was one of its side effects.
It was then developed as a treatment for Male and Female Pattern Baldness.
It is available in different formulations and different strengths.
According to a 48-week study, 5% topical Minoxidil was significantly more effective than 2% topical Minoxidil.
But does Minoxidil work for just Pattern Baldness, or are there other uses?
Keep reading to find out.
How does Minoxidil work
Minoxidil is a vasodilator.
It means that it dilates the blood vessels to increase the blood flow to the area where it has been applied.
It also encourages the flow of blood and nutrients to the hair follicles as well.
The exact mechanism of the action of Minoxidil still remains unclear.
But, it is believed that it works by enlarging the hair follicles and prolonging the growth phase of the hair.
With more hair follicles in the growth phase, your scalp will have more hair.
It is also known to shorten the resting phase of the hair.
In this phase, the hair does not grow, and new hair starts to form in the hair follicles.
However, any hair growth resulting from Minoxidil will be visible only as long as you continue using the product.
On discontinuation, the hair growth returns to normal.
Is Minoxidil effective
Minoxidil is applied topically to the skin to prevent hair loss due to Pattern Baldness.
Male or female pattern baldness is the most common type of hair loss.
Studies have shown that Minoxidil may help in hair regrowth at the front and the vertex of the scalp for men.
It has also proven effective in treating general hair thinning at the top of the scalp in Female Pattern Hair Loss.
Minoxidil gives the best results for people who begin using it at the first signs of hair loss.
It might not be helpful for people who have already gone bald.
Uses of Minoxidil
A comprehensive study was published in 2022 that studied Minoxidil and its uses in different hair disorders.
This study showed that Minoxidil could be prescribed as an off-label medication to treat several conditions, such as:
- Alopecia Areata
- Chronic Telogen Effluvium
- Scarring Alopecia
- Hair shaft disorders
In addition to this, topical Minoxidil can be used to trigger hair growth on the eyebrows, beard, or chest area.
Minoxidil has also worked for people suffering from Traction Alopecia.
Apart from this, topical Minoxidil has shown a reduction in hair loss in women suffering from Female Pattern Hair Loss which is usually triggered by hormonal imbalance.
This hormonal imbalance could be due to the onset of Menopause or PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome).
Who should not use Minoxidil
You should not use Minoxidil without a doctor’s recommendation if you are under 18 years of age.
Other times you need to consult a doctor before starting Minoxidil therapy if you are
- Experiencing postpartum hair loss
- Pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
- Experiencing sudden or unexplained hair loss, which involves hair falling out in patches
- Suffering from itchiness, pain, infection, or discoloration on your scalp
- Using hair products, chemicals, or other grooming methods which might be causing hair loss
- Suffering from a health condition that might be causing hair loss. These include thyroid disease, chemotherapy, scarring of the scalp, nutritional deficiencies, etc.
The FDA has approved Minoxidil for male and female pattern baldness, but it is not approved for any other type of hair loss.
However, your doctor might recommend it for off-label use in hair loss caused by other reasons.
Side effects of Minoxidil
Topical Minoxidil is considered safe to use, and its side effects are typically not serious.
The most commonly observed side effects of Minoxidil include the following:
- Scalp irritation from dryness or flaking of the skin
- Burning sensation
- Hair growth in surrounding areas
- Change in hair color or texture
- Dizziness
- Swelling in hands or feet
- Sudden or unexplained weight gain
- Chest pain
When you start using Minoxidil, you might notice increased hair fall for the first few weeks.
This is just your hair follicles pushing out the old hair to allow new hair to grow.
Takeaway
So, does Minoxidil work for hair loss? The answer is promising.
Minoxidil reduces hair loss and is also known to improve regrowth.
But it might not work for everyone or every type of hair loss.
It is FDA-approved to help with Male and Female Pattern Baldness.
Hence, it is advisable to talk to your doctor before using it for any off-label use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth using Minoxidil?
Minoxidil is an effective treatment for Male Pattern Baldness and may also help promote hair growth in women with hair thinning. However, it’s important to consult a doctor before using Minoxidil to get the best advice on using the product.
Does Minoxidil thicken hair?
Minoxidil may help thicken hair by increasing blood flow to the scalp, prolonging the growth phase of the hair follicle, and stimulating hair follicles. However, the extent of thickening may vary depending on individual factors and the severity of hair loss. Use Minoxidil consistently and as directed to see potential benefits.
Can Minoxidil regrow hair?
Yes, Minoxidil can regrow hair in individuals with Androgenetic Alopecia and women with hair thinning. However, its effectiveness may depend on various factors. These include the severity of hair loss, individual response to treatment, and consistent use. Minoxidil works by stimulating hair follicles to promote hair growth.
Does Minoxidil work permanently?
Minoxidil may help maintain hair growth as long as it’s used consistently and as directed. However, it’s not a permanent solution for hair loss. Discontinuing the use of Minoxidil can lead to a gradual reduction in hair density. Continued use may be necessary to maintain the benefits of Minoxidil.
Does Minoxidil affect sperm?
According to the Center for Male Reproductive Medicine u0026amp; Microsurgery, topical Minoxidil has no known negative impact on male fertility. However, further studies are needed to understand Minoxidil’s potential effects on male fertility completely. Men should discuss any concerns with a doctor before using Minoxidil.
