Minoxidil reviews, side effects, effectiveness, alternatives

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Minoxidil (also marketed as Rogaine, Regaine and Minoxin amongst others) is a chemical compound used as a treatment for hair loss. It is one of a few hair loss treatments that has good evidence behind it and is approved for use by multiple governing bodies.

When applied topically, it has been shown to promote hair growth and in some cases regrowth in both males and females suffering from androgenic alopecia (or pattern hair loss).

Only the topical form of this medication has been shown to be useful for hair loss and this article will focus on only the topical version. The information regarding minoxidil written here is only intended as a basic foundation and should never, under any circumstances, come in place of or instead of an opinion from your doctor. Before starting any hair loss treatment, you should consult with your doctor and read the manufacturer instructions and listed side effects.

History of minoxidil
Initially designed as a medication for stomach ulcers and high blood pressure, studies showed unexpectedly that minoxidil has hair growth properties. Designed by Upjohn (later Pfizer), it was initially marketed as Rogaine.

How does minoxidil work?
While the exact mechanism of action of minoxidil is not certain, it is believed that it promotes hair growth in some individuals by supporting the hair follicles by increasing the blood supply, which in turn brings more nutrients, blood and oxygen to each follicle. It is possible that this leads to hair follicles in the telogen phase to shed and get replaced by new hairs in the anagen phase. It works worse if there are large areas of hair loss.

What are the side effects if minoxidil?
For full side effects, please see packaging and your doctor before using this product.
Topical minoxidil is usually quite well tolerated, but as with any medication there are risks and common side effects.

Side effects include eye irritation, local itching, redness, dandruff, dermatitis or irritation at the treated area. Another important side effect is unwanted hair growth elsewhere on the body so care with application is advised.

It is important to note that initially over the first couple of months of use, it is normal for hair shedding to increase. This reactive shedding settles after 2 to 3 months.

It has also been reported to worsen hair loss over a longer period of time in some cases.

If you experience any side effects at all, you should see your doctor. Call an ambulance if you experience a serious side effect.

How do you use minoxidil?
Minoxidil usually comes in two forms, the 2 and 5 per cent versions. It comes in lotion and foam formulations. It is usually applied once or twice daily and used for 6 to 12 months before assessing its effectiveness. The medication works through direct contact with the scalp (not hair itself) and will only work in the areas where it is applied with regularity. Care should be taken when applying as application to unwanted areas can lead to unwanted hair growth.

If achieving good results for you, minoxidil must be used indefinitely for ongoing hair follicle support and maintenance of results as it does not reverse the underlying hair loss process.

How effective is minoxidil?
Does minoxidil work? When questioning the effectiveness of minoxidil, it is important to consider there are multiple factors that will influence results and outcomes of the topical appliaction.

Genetics, technique of application, how regularly it is applied and for how long, how early in the hair loss process the product is started, the concentration as well as formulation of the minoxidil itself will have an effect on the level of hair loss, maintenance and level of hair regrowth achieved.

Studies have shown that about 40% of men experience hair regrowth after 3 to 6 months. The greatest benefit and results of minoxidil is seen from 6 months to 2 years, with a gradual decrease in effectiveness after that. In the majority of cases over the long run, people continue to lose hair, just at a much reduced rate.

Remember that with indefinite use being required, the overall cost can be substantial in the long run and you should consider whether it is appropriate for you and your budget.

Minoxidil alternatives
Alternatives, to varying levels of evidence of efficacy, include finasteride, saw palmetto, herbal and vitamin supplements, dutasteride, laser therapy and surgical transplantation.

Minoxidil results
Have you used the product? What did you think? Rate the product and give us your minoxidil reviews and experiences in the comments section below and include how long you used it, which formulation you used, how effective it was and if you experienced any side effects.