Home » Hair » Hair Growth Supplements » Should I Use Minoxidil for Hair Loss?

Should I Use Minoxidil for Hair Loss?

Published: Last Updated on

“I’m a 49 year old woman with hair loss.  My doctor recommended that I start using Rogaine for my hair loss.  I haven’t used it because I heard that you have to use it for life.  I heard if you stop, your hair will come out.  Is this true?”

 

Rogaine is a brand name for a product that contains the active ingredient minoxidil.  Minoxidil is the actual drug that works to help grow the hair.  Let’s break down the use of minoxidil for hair loss.

 

 

What is Minoxidil?

Minoxidil is the active ingredient in the brand name hair loss medication, Rogaine.  The minoxidil story dates back to the 1970’s.  Minoxidil is a blood pressure drug.  It works to dilate (widen) blood vessels.  In the 1970’s, an astute young doctor noted that a patient taking the drug for her blood pressure was beginning to grow hair!  She used to cut her hair every 3-4 months, and suddenly she needed to cut it every 3-4 weeks.

 

After years of study, minoxidil was FDA approved for male pattern hair loss in 1988.  It has been sold over-the-counter since 1996.  Today, there are many over-the-counter hair growth treatments brands that contain minoxidil.  Rogaine® is the oldest and most popular brand.

 

We don’t know exactly how minoxidil works!  Scientists think that the widening of the blood vessels in the scalp allows more blood, oxygen and nutrients to reach the hair follicles.  It is thought that minoxidil increases the amount of time the follicles are in the growth (anagen) phase.  The longer a hair is in anagen phase, the longer the hair can get.  It is also thought that the drug nudges hairs that are in the resting (telogen) phase back into anagen.  There is more information on hair growth phases here.  The more follicles you have in the growth phase, the more hair you’ll have.

 

 

What Type of Hair Loss Does Minoxidil Treat?

Minoxidil is only FDA approved to treat male and female pattern genetic hair loss.  However, many physicians will try to treat other conditions like alopecia areata, CCCA, and traction alopecia with minoxidil.

 

Side Effects of Minoxidil

Like any drug, minoxidil can have side effects, and it’s not for everyone.  Most people tolerate it very well and do just fine.  Side effects can include irritation on the scalp, hair growth in other areas (like the face), and a change in hair texture of the newly grown hair.  There can be other side effects too, and you should discuss the medication with your doctor before using it.

 

Misconceptions about Minoxidil

 

1. It’s not for blacks.

All races, including Blacks, can use minoxidil for hair loss.  Minoxidil, which commonly comes as a liquid (with a dropper) or as a foam, can be used by people of all hair textures.

 

2. If you stop using it, all your hair will fall out.

If you stop using minoxidil for hair loss, the hair that you regrew from it will probably eventually come out. You’ll probably lose any progress you made.  Stopping it is a choice that you have though. Just know that you’ll probably go back to square one.

 

3. I tried minoxidil every day for a month and it didn’t work. It’s not for me!

You have to use minoxidil for about 4 months to know if it will work for you.  Some people may notice improvement in the first month or two, but others will take a bit longer.  Make sure you give it a good enough try before giving up.

 

rogaine minoxidil hair loss treatment

 

 

Conclusion

Minoxidil is a very good product for regrowing certain types of hair loss.  The Rogaine brand is trusted and has been around for decades.  There are other treatments for hair loss too, like Redensyl.  However, the research on minoxidil is solid.   If you’re suffering from any type of hair loss, you need to see a dermatologist first!  Don’t assume that you have female pattern hair loss.  There are many causes of hair loss.  Get evaluated, and then your dermatologist can talk to you about whether or not minoxidil is an appropriate choice for you.

The information contained on this website is made available for educational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice. By accessing this website, you understand and acknowledge that there is no physician-patient relationship between you and us.  Some links on this website are affiliate links from which we may receive a small commission from sales. The website is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and as an Amazon associate the website earns from qualifying purchases.

©2024 MDhairmixtress.com – All Right Reserved.

Better Life. Better You.

Sign up to receive VIP updates, discounts and special offers to your inbox