What is minoxidil and how long does minoxidil take to work?

Minoxidil is an antihypertensive and vasodilator treatment that is used both for high blood pressure and hair loss in both men and women. Minoxidil works from a process called vasodilation which is the relaxing and widening of blood vessels increasing the blood flow to the hair follicles. This process is brought on potassium channels the treatment opens.

How long the treatment can take to work depends on the person and the type of application. However, the consensus is that the on average, it will take 4-8 weeks to notice some results but for significant results it is likely to take 4-6 months.

It is important to note that before positive results can be seen it is reported that a side effect within the first six weeks of use can be increased shedding of hair. This is normal as these hairs are shed to be replaced by stronger, thicker hairs.

What are the methods of application?

This treatment usually is mainly applied directly to the scalp in the form of a foam or solution depending on the brand. It is best to focus the treatment to the affected areas of the scalp where the hair is thinnest. Once applied you can style your hair as usual but if you are using a hair dry make sure it is set to a cool setting.

To improve the effectiveness of the treatment and reduce the amount of time for noticeable results the topical application is paired with a specialist roller. This roller is used on the scalp to aggravate it with microscopic wounds and trigger your body’s natural healing process. This healing process improves collagen production and activate stem cells. Only use the roller on the scalp as use on other areas is likely to result in visible scaring.

Oral applications are also sold that are in tablet form and taken once a day. However, this application method is not typically preferred. This is because it is less targeted, which can cause hair growth in unwanted areas. Although small, there is also the risk of kidney damage like in a lot of oral blood pressure medications.

What are the side effects?

Potential side effects of the topical application include:

• Severe scalp irritation
• Chest pain
• Weight gain
• Flushing
• Headache

If you experience any of the above side effects, it is important that you talk to your pharmacist or GP before continuing with the treatment.

If minoxidil is stopped being used the regrown hair usually falls out within 3 months and hair loss continues.

Do not use minoxidil if you fall into any of the following categories of people:

• Under 18s and over 65s
• Pregnant women
• Breastfeeding women
• People with high blood pressure
• People who have conditions which affect the scalp
• People with a shaved scalp
• Completely bald people