Minoxidil

[HairlossFighter]

Minoxidil is a medication commonly used to promote hair growth. Originally developed as an oral medication for treating high blood pressure, it was discovered to have the side effect of stimulating hair growth. As a result, a topical form of minoxidil was developed for the treatment of male and female pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia).
Key points about minoxidil include:
1.   Mechanism of Action: The exact way minoxidil works is not fully understood. It is believed to widen blood vessels, improve blood flow to the hair follicles, and stimulate hair growth.
2.   Topical Application: Minoxidil is typically applied directly to the scalp in the form of a solution or foam. It is available over-the-counter in various strengths, with the 5% solution being more commonly used for treating androgenetic alopecia in both men and women (for women the 2% solution is often used).
3.   Effectiveness: Minoxidil has been shown to be effective in promoting hair growth, especially in the crown area of the scalp. It is generally more effective in people with recent hair loss and those with smaller areas of baldness.
4.   Usage: The recommended application frequency varies depending on the product. It is usually applied twice daily. Results may become noticeable after a few months of consistent use.
5.   Side Effects: While generally considered safe, some people may experience side effects, including scalp irritation, itching, and dryness. In rare cases, individuals may experience unwanted hair growth in other areas of the body.
6.   Discontinuation: If the application of minoxidil is stopped, any new hair growth is typically lost within a few months.
It's essential to follow the instructions provided with the specific minoxidil product and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or experience adverse reactions. As with any medication, individual responses can vary, and it may not be suitable for everyone.

[HairHopeful]

I used minoxidil in the past without any serious results. Maybe it delayed the development of the problem, but I certainly didn't see any terrible re-growth in my head. I'd say it's a waste of money if you think of it as a treatment to regrow the hair you lost.

[Man]

ΟΚ HairHopeful but even if it succeeds in keeping what you have, it's important I think.

[HairHopeful]

Yeah, ok, I don't disagree. 

[ScalpChampion]

I have been using minoxidil for 1 year. I think it has indeed helped me to stabilize my hair loss. At first I was taking the liquid solution twice a day and it was unbearable since besides making my hair very greasy, it also made my hair terribly itchy. Eventually I switched to the foam and solved the above problems.

[BaldNoMore]

It is also important to note that because of minoxidil's effect on the bloodstream, many transplant clinics recommend it a few days after surgery and for a few months afterwards to help graft survival and faster hair growth.

[Ms. Lalu]

Can Minoxidil help my hair shedding?

[Admin]

Hi Ms. Lalu,

Minoxidil can be helpful for hair shedding. It's one of the few treatments that's been approved by the FDA for hair loss and is effective in both men and women. Minoxidil works by stimulating hair follicle growth and can slow down hair shedding, leading to thicker, fuller hair over time.

It's important to note that results can vary from person to person, and it usually takes a few months of consistent use to see significant improvements. Also, be mindful that once you start using Minoxidil, you might need to keep using it to maintain the results, as stopping the treatment could lead to resumed hair shedding.

Before starting any new treatment, it's a good idea to consult with a hair loss professional to ensure it's the right choice for your specific situation. They can guide how to use it effectively and discuss any potential side effects.