Minoxidil Beard Side Effects: Know the Truth
Minoxidil is an FDA-approved medication for hair loss.
It is available as a prescription as well as an over-the-counter medicine for hair regrowth.
Initially, the medicine was prescribed to hypertension patients to lower blood pressure.
People began to notice hair growth as a Minoxidil side effect, and the medication is now widely used to treat hair problems.
Some people also suggest Minoxidil for beard growth.
Among these required effects, this hair medicine also has some mild side effects.
Keep reading to know more about Minoxidil beard side effects.
Minoxidil for beard growth
Minoxidil is FDA approved for hair loss on the scalp, but it is not a prescribed medicine for beard growth.
However, Minoxidil is considered safe for beard growth too.
A study published in the National Library of Medicine compared Minoxidil to a placebo.
According to that study, Minoxidil was superior in terms of promoting beard growth, with only minor side effects.
However, one study is not enough to prove the efficacy of the medicine.
More research is required to understand Minoxidil use for beard growth.
How Minoxidil works
Minoxidil is usually applied to the scalp for hair growth.
How Minoxidil works for hair growth has yet to be understood.
According to one study, Minoxidil works by dilation of blood vessels. This increases blood flow to the hair follicles.
It shortens the resting phase. It also helps hair follicles to get stronger and thicker, leading to an increase in the active phase.
“Minoxidil works by shortening the Telogen phase (the resting phase) of hair growth and lengthening the Anagen phase (the growing phase) of hair growth.”
explains Dr. David Shafer
How to use Minoxidil safely for beard growth
Research says that Minoxidil, with at least a 3% concentration, is effective for beard growth.
You can apply a small amount of the solution to your beard.
Repeat the process twice a day.
Minoxidil takes time to show its effects. Use the solution for at least two months.
You can take before and after photos to verify whether the solution is working for you.
| Medicines | Price |
|---|---|
| Tugain 5% | $20.54/unit |
| Hair 4u 2% | $6.60/unit |
| Hair 4u 5% | $21.61/unit |
Minoxidil side effects on beard
Minoxidil’s side effects on your beard are usually not that common or serious.
However, like any other medicine, it also has some noticeable side effects, including
- The scaly texture of the skin
- Dizziness
- Dry skin
- Redness or irritation in the application area
- Weight gain
- Changes in the color or texture of hair
These side effects are not severe and should disappear as soon as your body gets used to them.
However, if side effects persist, consult with your doctor.
Takeaway
In conclusion, there is not enough evidence to prove the efficacy of Minoxidil for beard growth.
But it works for some people, so it is worth a try.
However, like any other medication, it also has some side effects.
Some people may experience side effects, including dry skin, dizziness, and weight gain.
They usually last for some time and disappear once your body gets used to the medicine.
Consult your doctor if the side effects do not go away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Minoxidil safe for the beard?
Minoxidil is generally safe to use. Its symptoms are not very common. Even if you experience any symptoms, they are usually mild. Once your body gets used to the medicine, symptoms should go away. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, seek immediate medical attention.
Are Minoxidil side effects permanent?
Most of the Minoxidil side effects usually go away. However, they can sometimes cause severe or long-term side effects. It is rare, but your skin can sometimes absorb it. Stop using Minoxidil if side effects persist.
Is facial hair a side effect of Minoxidil?
Yes. Minoxidil started showing hair growth as a side effect in patients with hypertension. It works as a Vasodilator so that blood can pass through vessels easily. This helps relax blood vessels in the scalp, resulting in healthy hair follicles. Minoxidil works similarly to encourage facial hair growth.
What is the disadvantage of Minoxidil?
If spilled, minoxidil can stain clothes. Thus after the minoxidil application, you need to wait for the medicine to dry before you go to sleep. Minoxidil takes time (4-6 months) to show the result. Your hair regrowth will stop once you stop using the medication.
Will I lose beard growth if I stop Minoxidil?
Yes. If Minoxidil works for your beard growth, you must keep using it. This hair medication works only when you are using it. Once you stop applying the medicine, your beard growth will stop. Also, you will lose all the beard growth you gained after you started using Minoxidil.
