Minoxidil
Summary
Effectiveness
Its effectiveness against androgenetic alopecia has been demonstrated: it can improve density and preserve hair. The response varies and the benefits require continued treatment.
Accessibility
Availability and prescription status depend on the formulation and country. Allow for ongoing purchases and regular daily applications, including drying time.
Minoxidil is a medication that stimulates hair growth and can improve hair density when it is thinning due to androgenetic alopecia. It is applied to the scalp, with progressive results over several months. It helps still-active follicles produce more visible hair, without recreating a full head of hair in a long-bald area or blocking DHT, the hormone targeted by finasteride.
Minoxidil has also been studied for sparse beards and eyebrows. Check the approved indication for the exact product in your country and discuss facial use with a dermatologist, especially near the eyes. Results and maintenance after stopping are less well established than for the scalp; do not apply scalp doses to the face.
For the scalp, this sheet mainly presents the 5% skin forms intended for adult men: follow the instructions, apply to healthy, dry skin, then wash your hands. A transient loss may occur at the beginning and the hair gains are lost after stopping. For the beard or eyebrows, have a use defined for the area; minoxidil is not applied to eyelashes or eyelids.
Sources
- base-donnees-publique.medicaments.gouv.fr · extrait (new tab)
- base-donnees-publique.medicaments.gouv.fr · extrait (new tab)
- What is male pattern hair loss, and can it be treated? (new tab)
- A randomized clinical trial of 5% topical minoxidil versus 2% topical minoxidil and placebo in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia in men (new tab)
- Efficacy and safety of minoxidil 3% lotion for beard enhancement: A randomized, double-masked, placebo-controlled study (new tab)
- doi.org · 1346-8138.12275 (new tab)
Articles that may interest you
GroomingGroomingGroomingGroomingAbout this content
The contents do not claim any medical or paramedical qualifications and are not systematically reviewed by a healthcare professional.
The site shares general information and practical tips. It does not make a diagnosis, does not prescribe any treatment and does not replace advice adapted to your situation.