What is Minoxidil?
Minoxidil is a well-known and widely used topical solution for hair loss. Originally developed as a blood pressure medication, it was later found to promote hair regrowth as a side effect—and today, it's one of the most trusted treatments for certain types of alopecia.
Applied directly to the scalp, Minoxidil works by improving blood flow to the hair follicles, prolonging the growth phase of the hair cycle, and stimulating follicles that may have become dormant.
Which types of hair loss does Minoxidil help with?
Minoxidil is particularly effective in:
- Androgenetic alopecia (genetic hair loss in both men and women)
- Telogen effluvium (temporary shedding due to stress, illness, etc.)
- In some cases, postpartum hair loss or seasonal shedding
It is not typically effective in scarring alopecia or certain autoimmune conditions like alopecia areata—other treatments may be more suitable in those cases.
What about the shedding phase?
One of the most common concerns is the shedding that may happen after starting Minoxidil. This can be alarming but is completely normal and temporary.
Here’s why: Minoxidil pushes weaker, older hairs into the shedding phase to make room for new, healthier growth. It’s a sign that the treatment is working—not that you're losing more hair.
Consistency is key. Most people see visible results after 3 to 6 months, and stopping too soon can interrupt the progress.
What happens if you stop?
Another myth: that stopping Minoxidil will cause all your regrown hair to fall out at once. In reality, hair growth stimulated by Minoxidil will gradually slow, and your hair will return to its previous baseline, not worse than before.
The key is understanding that Minoxidil is a long-term commitment for sustained results.
Thinking about starting Minoxidil?
If you’re dealing with hair thinning or early signs of alopecia, we can assess whether Minoxidil is the right option for you—or if another therapy may be more effective.
Book a consultation at our practice for a personalized hair loss treatment plan.
