Hair loss is a widespread concern affecting both men and women, often impacting confidence and quality of life. At The Rejuvenation Doctors we’re committed to providing evidence-based solutions to help our patients achieve their hair restoration goals. One clinically proven treatments is minoxidil, and it works for various types of hair loss. Here’s everything you need to know about how it works, who can use it, and how to get the best results.
What is Minoxidil?
Minoxidil is an FDA-approved treatment initially developed to treat high blood pressure. Its unique side effect—stimulating hair growth—revolutionised its use for hair loss. Today, it’s a trusted solution for addressing androgenetic alopecia (male and female pattern baldness) and other forms of hair thinning.
Minoxidil comes in two forms: topical solutions or foams and oral tablets. Both are effective, but understanding their differences can help you choose the right option for your needs.
How Does Minoxidil Work?
Minoxidil’s exact mechanism isn’t fully understood, but research shows it benefits hair growth through:
Increased blood flow: Minoxidil is able to lower blood pressure by dilating blood vessels, it is thought that this action leads to an improved nutrient and oxygen delivery to hair follicles.
Prolonged growth phase: Minoxidil has been found to extend the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle, promoting stronger and longer hair.
Follicle stimulation: It reactivates miniaturised and dormant hair follicles, encouraging new growth.
It’s most effective on thinning areas rather than completely bald spots and early intervention will ensure the best results.
Who Can Benefit from Minoxidil?
Minoxidil is suitable for most individuals experiencing hair loss, including:
Men and women that have noticed hair thinning.
Individuals with stress-induced hair shedding (telogen effluvium).
Patients seeking to enhance their hair transplant results.
However, it’s not recommended for individuals with severe scalp conditions, allergies to its ingredients, or for pregnant or breastfeeding women. At The Rejuvenation Doctors, we always tailor treatment to your specific needs.
Topical vs. Oral Minoxidil
Minoxidil is available in two forms:
Topical Minoxidil:
Common concentrations: 2% and 5%, now available in 10%.
Applied twice daily to thinning areas.
If combined with Tretinoin (Vitamin A) it only needs to be applied once daily.
Ideal for targeted scalp treatment, such as alopecia areata.
Oral Minoxidil:
Taken as a low-dose pill, prescribed off-label.
Starting dose 1.25mg-2.5mg.
Great for patients who experience irritation with topical formulations or prefer an easier application method.
Requires monitoring by a specialist due to systemic side effects that may occur.
Choosing the right form depends on your hair loss type, lifestyle, and medical history.
Are There Any Side Effects?
While minoxidil is generally safe, potential side effects include:
Scalp irritation: Dryness, redness, or flaking (common with topical minoxidil).
Choosing a product that doesn't contain propylene glycol can help reduce irritation.
Temporary shedding: A normal phase approximately once month after starting to use minoxidil. This happens as weaker hairs fall out, making way for healthier growth.
It's important not to panic and continue using it, as this is a sign it's working and your hair about to get thicker.
Unwanted hair growth: Rarely, minoxidil can stimulate hair growth in unintended areas, such as the face.
It is important to wash your hands after applying the topical forms.3
Systemic effects (oral minoxidil): Low blood pressure, dizziness, or headaches may occur in rare cases. In very rare cases fluid may build up in the protective layer around the heart, known as peri-cardial effusion.
It is important to purchase your treatment from a clinic that will monitor your treatment and possible side effects and adjust the dose to ensure optimal results.
Why Choose The Rejuvenation Doctors?
At The Rejuvenation Doctors, we specialise in personalised hair loss treatments, including medication, PRP, Polynucleotides and FUE hair transplant surgery. With years of expertise in both surgical and non-surgical solutions, we’re here to guide you through every step of your hair restoration journey.
Start Your Hair Loss Journey Today
If you’re experiencing hair thinning or hair loss, don’t wait to seek professional advice.
Contact us today for a consultation with a Dr. Jamie, to create a treatment plan
tailored to your hair loss needs, helping you achieve fuller, healthier hair.
Schedule your consultation today! Call us at 07565 926236 or visit our booking page https://www.therejuvenationdoctors.com/book-online to book online.
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