The Power of Minoxidil Spray for Hair Growth: A Comprehensive Guide
Minoxidil is an FDA-approved hair growth treatment.
It has been a popular solution for hair loss for a long time.
It is used to stimulate hair growth and to slow the balding process.
Minoxidil is available in two forms: solution and sprays for hair growth.
Both are available at 2% and 5% strengths.
Continue reading the article to understand more about the usage of minoxidil spray.
How Minoxidil spray works
Minoxidil is a popular treatment for hair loss.
The medicine acts on follicular cells, increasing hair growth and decreasing hair loss.
Minoxidil is converted into Minoxidil sulfate by a scalp enzyme called Sulfotransferase.
It enables Potassium channels to open, allowing cell membrane hyperpolarization and blood vessel extension.
Then, it works by causing the hair to enter the anagen or growth stage prematurely by shortening the Telogen or resting phase.
Minoxidil also enhances the thickness of the hair.
After four months of Minoxidil topical treatments, 26% of men reported moderate to dense hair regrowth.
This concludes that Minoxidil works when used consistently.
But the discontinuation of Minoxidil causes significant hair loss between 12 to 24 weeks.
Benefits of Minoxidil spray
Minoxidil must be given directly to the hair follicles to stimulate new growth for it to be effective.
This is only possible if Minoxidil is used correctly.
When applied to the scalp, minoxidil spray increases blood flow to the hair follicles.
It gives the hair more nutrients and the appropriate circumstances to stimulate regeneration.
Using the spray bottle simplifies applying the solution and gives the best results.
In contrast to foam or liquid applicators, the spray applicator guarantees that Minoxidil is applied cleanly and precisely, with no mess, spilling, or cleaning.
It is quick and easy to apply and does not lead to any wastage.
How to apply Minoxidil spray
Given below are a few steps you should follow while applying the minoxidil spray.
However, read all directions on the spray bottle thoroughly.
The manufacturer will provide the correct dose, which should always be maintained.
- Wash the hair and scalp and thoroughly dry them before applying the spray.
- Prepare the spray bottle and aim for the scalp, not the hair.
- Make sure you hit the mark by dividing your hair into several portions (five or six, for instance), allowing the scalp to show.
Apply Minoxidil spray promptly, as suggested by your hair specialist, and be consistent with it.
It is recommended that the medicine be left in the hair for at least 4 hours.
In case of a missed dosage, apply the missed dosage of this medication as soon as you remember.
If your next dosage approaches, skip the missed one and resume your usual dosing regimen.
Medicines with Minoxidil | Approx Cost |
Tugain 5% | $20.54 |
Tugain Solution 10 | $87.30 |
Hair 4u 2% | $19.80 |
Hair 4u 5% | $21.61 |
Minoxidil spray vs. foam
Both Minoxidil spray and foam are effective for hair loss.
However, Minoxidil foam is more effective due to its higher concentration of active ingredients and can enter the scalp faster and work better.
Moreover, Minoxidil spray is less efficient in penetrating the scalp because it tends to dry fast.
Minoxidil spray can be used on other body parts, like the beard. It is easier to apply and does not lead to any wastage.
In addition, the spray targets bald spots efficiently.
But, it comes down to the personal preference of the user.
Minoxidil spray vs. drops
According to a 2019 study, when compared to Minoxidil solution, minoxidil foam enables faster medication penetration, higher active ingredient delivery, and less scalp irritation.
Also, before the hair follicles absorb the liquid, the dropper drops liquid down the back of the neck, which might result in waste.
It might also result in unwanted hair growth on the forehead or the face.
You can never accurately determine how much Minoxidil was applied to the scalp with the dropper, but with the spray, the hair follicles can be targeted easily, leading to more hair growth.
So Minoxidil spray is a better option compared to drops in some cases.
Side Effects of Minoxidil Spray
Side effects of the Minoxidil spray are generally low compared to the pills as it only targets a particular part of the body, the scalp.
The side effects of minoxidil are mild in most cases.
Some of the side effects are
- Itching on the scalp
- A burning sensation
- Redness
- Inflammation or soreness at the root of the hair.
- Increased hair loss
If you see any side effects, contact your doctor immediately.
Precautions
Regular check-ups with your doctor are important to ensure the medication functions as intended and rule out any side effects.
If your scalp shows any side effects after using Minoxidil, inform your doctor.
Wash the medication off and see your doctor before reapplying if the itching, redness, or burning is severe.
Ensure to wash your hands thoroughly before and after applying Minoxidil.
Avoid going to bed right after the application. Use it at least one hour before.
Do not use hair dryers or perm your hair after the application.
If you are an adult, do this twice daily, and see a doctor before using Minoxidil on youngsters.
Takeaway
Minoxidil is a hair loss treatment available in liquid (dropper) and spray forms.
The Minoxidil spray application is easier than others as it can focus on a specific target.
But compared to foam, the spray form dries faster, which makes it less efficient to penetrate the scalp.
Some common side effects of Minoxidil spray are redness, itching, burning, or tingling sensation.
Always talk to your doctor before choosing the dosage and form of Minoxidil that is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Minoxidil spray work?
Yes, Minoxidil spray works. It stimulates hair follicles which leads to hair growth. It also slows down the balding process. It is effective for Male Pattern Baldness and women with certain types of hair loss.
Is Minoxidil spray good for hair?
Minoxidil has been shown to increase the resilience and thickness of new hairs on the scalp over time. Minoxidil has also been clinically demonstrated to stimulate new growth and aid in hair development in areas where hair follicles have become inactive due to DHT on the scalp.
Does Minoxidil spray have side effects?
Minoxidil spray has side effects like itching, burning in the scalp, and redness. It also causes hair shedding in the beginning. It is always recommended to do a patch test before using the product to know if you might have any side effects.
Can Minoxidil regrow hair?
With consistent usage, Minoxidil can help in hair regrowth by stimulating the blood flow in the scalp. It can also help in stopping or slowing further hair loss. It has also been clinically proven to stimulate new hair growth and development.
Can you leave Minoxidil on overnight?
You can leave Minoxidil overnight, but the solution should dry before bed. You also have to be careful not to let it touch other sensitive parts of the body and wash your hair regularly so it does not live buildup.