Minoxodil for Hair Growth
As a treatment for thinning hair, minoxidil has a rather unusual history. It was first used as an oral medication to treat patients suffering from high blood pressure. After some time, doctors began to notice that their patients were beginning to grow unwanted hair. Prompted by this side effect, the pharmaceutical company Upjohn began testing minoxidil as a treatment for thinning hair. It was soon found that, in some instances, applying a topical application of a mild minoxidil solution to the scalp helped support hair growth.
The FDA approved minoxidil for the treatment of hair loss in 1988. Since then men and women have been using the drug in the form of a foam or serum to stimulate hair growth. Although the exact mechanism is unknown, minoxidil is thought to dilate blood vessels, thus promoting blood supply to the scalp and boosting the supply of oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles. In animal studies, minoxidil was shown to shorten the telogen stage of the hair cycle – the resting stage – and to push resting hair follicles into the anagen, or growth stage[1]. Some researchers have speculated that as minoxidil is absorbed through the scalp, it may supports an increase growth in hair follicle cells[2].
How Does Minoxidil Work?
You should only use this medication on the scalp and as directed. Do not use it more often or in a larger quantity than recommended. You should not use other products on the same area where you applied minoxidil, however, you may use hair products including perms, relaxers, and colors while using minoxidil therapy as long as you wash the scalp before using the products. Also, remember to not re-apply minoxidil for at least 24 hours after using other topical products.
How to Apply Minoxidil
To apply:
- Make sure your hair and scalp are dry when you apply minoxidil.
- Only apply the prescribed amount to the treatment area.
- Keep minoxidil away from your mouth, eyes, and nose.
- Do not shampoo your hair for at least 4 hours after application.
- Wash hands immediately after applying minoxidil.
- Do not use a hair dryer or any other heated styling tools after application.
- Allow the serum to dry for 2-4 hours before wearing a hat or going to bed to avoid staining.
The amount of minoxidil that you use will depend on the strength of the medication, as will the number of daily uses. Typically, an adult should apply 1 capful of the foaming serum to the scalp twice each day. Hair loss may continue for up to 2 weeks after you begin to use minoxidil.
Is Minoxidil Safe for Men and Women?
You should tell your physician if you notice persistent burning, itching, or redness on your scalp where you have applied minoxidil. If the reaction is severe, wash it off and consult your doctor before you use minoxidil again.
You should not use minoxidil if:
- you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- you have a tumor on the adrenal gland
- you have a heart condition
- you have kidney problems or are on dialysis
Minoxidil is available in two different strengths: 2% (known as regular strength) and 5% (known as extra strength). Although the 5% formula achieves results faster, it can also cause irritation, such as itching and contact dermatitis[3]. HairOmega® Serum Foaming Topical Minoxidil uses the milder, 2% formula.
Hair Products Containing Minoxidil
If you are looking for a hair growth product containing minoxidil, then HairOmega® Serum Foaming Topical Minoxidil is one of the highest quality solutions on the market today. Superior to its competitors, HairOmega® Serum is made from a proprietary formula blending minoxidil and natural DHT blockers. The non-mess, foaming serum provides a dual-action solution by blocking DHT and stimulating hair growth.
Don’t let thinning hair get you down. Use minoxidil foam on a daily basis to support strong and healthy hair. This serum is suitable for men and women and gets noticeable results within six weeks of use. Find out more about DrFormulas™ other hair growth products, including our supplements and all-natural shampoo and conditioner. Keep up with the latest information on hair health and nutrition with our blog as well to learn how your lifestyle may impact your hair.
[1] http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1365-2133.2004.05785.x/full
[2] http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0923181104000039