If you are suffering from hair loss like us, why not give minoxidil a try? The before and after photos of minoxidil are amazing, and whether you are struggling with a receding hairline or trying to maintain your current hair, why not give minoxidil a try? Because it really works for people who are suffering from hair loss or who are facing a history of hair loss. And as it turns out, minoxidil is the most recommended FDA-approved hair loss treatment, praised by dermatologists and hair loss experts. Now, before you start treatment, there are some things you should know about minoxidil for women and minoxidil side effects. Maybe you didn’t know that your hair would fall out at first. Don’t worry. This is a completely normal aspect of the hair growth cycle and your hair will grow back. Keep scrolling to learn everything you need to know before using minoxidil.
Why is minoxidil effective against hair loss?
What is all the praise about minoxidil? The explanation behind minoxidil’s action is not completely clear. However, there is research that supports minoxidil’s effectiveness in treating hair loss by promoting growth and resulting in thicker hair. It is also worth noting that minoxidil for women can be used both orally and topically to stimulate new hair growth.
What you need to know before using minoxidil and minoxidil side effects
When using minoxidil externally, please note the following points:
1. Hair will fall out when using minoxidil for the first time.
RUN Studio/Getty
Yes, you read correctly, you will lose some hair within the first few weeks of using minoxidil. Trichologist and hair loss specialist Mandy Buechner claims this is a common minoxidil side effect. The reason this happens is that “minoxidil can cause the transition of hair growth from the telogen (telogen or telogen) phase to the anagen (active growth) phase,” she says. Masu. “This means that the hair that was in the resting phase has to fall out to make way for new hair growth.”
TikToker and dermatologist Aamna Adel touches on this and other minoxidil side effects in the video below.
2. Minoxidil use requires a long-term commitment
Another thing to note when using minoxidil for women is that to maintain the results obtained from using the treatment, you need to be committed to using it consistently. Dermatologist Dr. Sam Ellis explains more in the video below.
3. Yes, you can also use minoxidil prescription for men
Forget about formulas marketed to men. Women can and should use it too. They also often contain higher concentrations of minoxidil, which can help you see results faster. Dermatologist Dr. Shereen Idris attests to this in the TikTok below. Note: Some women may be able to cope with irritation if they use 5 percent minoxidil instead of 2 percent minoxidil. Keep that in mind and adjust the concentration as needed.
4. When to add minoxidil to your hair care routine
For best results, minoxidil should be used twice a day, so apply it both in the morning and at night. It can also be used on dry hair and should be used as the last step in your hair care routine. Dr. Adele shows the best way to apply it and some tips in the TikTok below.
5. Minoxidil is toxic to pets
For those who have furry friends at home, this is an important minoxidil side effect to be aware of. There are reports that minoxidil is toxic to dogs and cats. Therefore, when using the treatment, it is best to be careful with your pet’s use and exposure to minoxidil. The good news is that pet deaths related to minoxidil exposure are low, but you may still be weary of using minoxidil around yourself.
6. There are ways to make minoxidil work better.
Dharmapada Behera/Getty
Using minoxidil in conjunction with scalp dermarolling can help promote hair growth as the treatment penetrates the scalp better. Additionally, it promotes blood circulation and allows your hair to maintain an active growth phase.
Additionally, when using minoxidil in women, applying retinol, especially tretinoin, is also a way to promote hair growth. That’s because this retinol increases the levels of natural enzymes on your scalp that are essential for converting minoxidil into its active form and reversing hair thinning.
7. Combine minoxidil with other hair growth treatments for faster results
Another option to increase the effectiveness of minoxidil is to try using it in conjunction with laser hair therapy. Lasers have also been shown to extend the anagen phase of hair. TikToker @hyperthrill talks about this and some of the tricks above in the video below.
Check out more helpful tips for thinning hair.
6 surprising ways to help hair growth and reverse hair loss for women over 50
Best hairbrushes for thinning hair: 5 options that work for all hair types and promote hair growth
How topical caffeine for hair growth reverses thinning hair and hair loss in people over 50
