Minoxidil solution is a topical medication commonly used to treat hair loss. It works by stimulating hair follicles and promoting hair regrowth in individuals experiencing thinning hair or male/female pattern baldness. Minoxidil is applied in areas where hair is thinning and is available in both liquid and foam formulations. It increases blood flow to hair follicles and prolongs the growth phase of hair. Here are some specifications to understand when using Minoxidil in order to get its full benefit:
• Minoxidil is effective only in the areas where it is applied, so be sure to treat all thinning regions. It can help wherever there is miniaturized hair, but not in completely bald spots. If you’re experiencing early thinning at the front of your scalp or temples, it’s important to apply the solution there as soon as possible.
• To work effectively, Minoxidil must be applied directly to the scalp, not on the hair itself.
• Use the prescribed dosage. Usually, 1 ml which often equate to 6 – 8 pumps.
• While Minoxidil works best when used twice daily, applying it once a day is still beneficial—better than not using it at all. Because it can wet the hair, we find it most convenient to apply it at bedtime and the hair can be washed in the morning.
• For Minoxidil to be effective, it should be used consistently and regularly. Avoid stopping and starting the treatment as stopping will result in the loss of its benefits (though you won’t be worse off than if you had never used it). Unless you have side effects, don’t stop it.
• You might experience some shedding in the first 3 to 6 months. Don’t worry! It indicates that the medication is taking effect. Remember to stay always consistent.
Myth about Minoxidil
• Minoxidil regrows hair instantly: Many people expect quick results, but it can take several months (typically 2 to 4 months) to notice any visible improvement, and maximum results may take up to a year.
• Minoxidil causes more hair loss initially: It’s true that some users experience an initial shedding phase when starting minoxidil, but this shedding is typically a sign that the hair follicles are transitioning into a healthier growth phase. It can be temporary and should improve after a few weeks.
• Minoxidil works for everyone, even with advanced hair loss: Minoxidil tends to work best in the early stages of hair loss. If the hair follicles have been dormant or scarred for a long time, minoxidil may not be as effective.
• Minoxidil is all you need for hair restoration: While minoxidil can help with hair regrowth, it is often more effective when combined with other treatments.
What if my Minoxidil treatment is not enough?
Minoxidil works best in conjunction with Finasteride or Dutasteride which block the conversion of testosterone to DHT, a key role player in androgenetic alopecia.
When combined with PRP, they potentiate each other’s action. This combination seems promising for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia.
Hair transplant remains the solution when you have complete bald spots or when the desired result is not achieved by medical treatment alone. For better results, continue using Minoxidil even before hair transplant.
Remember to consult your dermatologist for more information about the available treatments of hair loss.