Minoxidil is a widely used and FDA-approved treatment for hair loss. Here’s a clear breakdown of how it works, how to use it, and what to expect:
🔬 How Minoxidil Works
- Mechanism: Originally a blood pressure medication, minoxidil improves blood flow to hair follicles and stimulates them to enter the growth phase (anagen).
- Result: Increases hair density, thickness, and prolongs the growing phase.
📌 Who It’s For
- Men & Women: Different concentrations are used (usually 5% for men, 2% or 5% for women).
- Androgenetic Alopecia: Most effective for male/female pattern baldness.
- Other Uses: Sometimes prescribed off-label for alopecia areata or other forms of hair thinning.
🧴 How to Use Minoxidil
- Topical Application (most common): Foam or liquid form.
- Frequency: 1–2 times daily (consistency is key!).
- Where: Apply directly to the scalp, not the hair.
- Dry Scalp: Ensure scalp is dry before applying.
⏳ When to Expect Results
- Initial Shedding: Common in the first few weeks (old hairs fall out to make way for new ones).
- Visible Results: Typically within 3 to 6 months.
- Maximum Effect: After 6 to 12 months.
- Maintenance: Stopping use will usually result in loss of the new hair growth over several months.