If you’re weighing up your options when it comes hair loss treatments, one question you're likely asking yourself is whether minoxidil really works.
The simple answer? Yes, it does. However, its effectiveness depends on several factors like consistency, how early you start, and your individual response to the treatment.
The science behind how minoxidil works can seem complicated. That’s why we’ve broken it down in our guide below, so you know exactly what to expect before you start your treatment.
Three key takeaways
Minoxidil is clinically proven to slow hair loss and encourage regrowth if it’s used consistently.
It's most effective for pattern baldness and thinning at the crown, though it tends to be less helpful for receding hairlines or areas where hair is already completely gone.
What is minoxidil?
Minoxidil was originally developed to treat high blood pressure. However, doctors noticed that patients started growing more hair as a side effect. Since then, it's become one of the most widely used treatments for hair loss.
Although scientists still don't completely understand exactly how minoxidil causes hair growth, it's thought to widen blood vessels, which improves blood flow to your hair follicles. This increased circulation delivers more oxygen and nutrients, which can help wake up dormant follicles and extend the growth phase of your hair.
The treatment comes in two forms: oral minoxidil and topical minoxidil. Both men and women can use either form.
The topical version is typically a foam or spray and is widely available over the counter. It’s usually applied once or twice a day.
The oral version is a tablet and requires a prescription. It's normally taken with water once a day. Most people start with topical minoxidil first. Oral minoxidil is then usually considered if the topical form hasn't given the desired results.
It's important to know that when oral minoxidil is prescribed for hair loss, it's being used off-label. This means it's an unlicensed treatment for this purpose, as oral minoxidil is only officially licensed to treat some types of high blood pressure.
Your prescriber should explain this off-label use to you before you start treatment, so you can make an informed decision about whether it's right for you. But rest assured, off-label prescribing is a common and lawful practice when it aligns with best practice guidance and is in the patient’s best interest.
How well does minoxidil work?
The good news is that minoxidil works well for a lot of people at slowing down hair loss and encouraging regrowth.
In a 32-week trial, 44% of women using 2% topical minoxidil saw new hair growth, compared to just 29% who used a placebo. For men, 5% topical minoxidil showed even better results over 48 weeks, with noticeably more hair growth than the 2% version.
In another study, 70% of men who continued using topical minoxidil had 50% more hair than when they started. This shows that for most users, topical minoxidil didn't just stop hair loss, it actually improved it.
Oral minoxidil has also shown good results. In one study, 43% of men taking 5mg daily achieved “excellent improvement” after 24 weeks.
What matters most is consistency. Minoxidil, whether topical or oral, works best when you stick with it for several months. It helps to thicken the hair you have and reduce further shedding, though it won't fully restore hair in all areas for everyone.
Who is minoxidil suitable for?
Whether minoxidil is right for you depends on what type of hair loss you have. It's most effective for androgenetic alopecia, which is the medical term for pattern baldness. This is the most common type of hair loss, and it affects both men and women as they age, or through their genetics.
Minoxidil works particularly well on the crown and top of the scalp, where it can help thicken thinning hair and slow down further loss.
However, it tends to be less effective on receding hairlines at the front, and it won't help much if you've already lost all of your hair in certain areas. The earlier you start treatment, the better your chances are of seeing results.
If you're unsure what's causing your hair loss, it's worth speaking to a healthcare professional, like one of our Chemist4U pharmacists, before starting treatment.
Can women use minoxidil?
Yes, minoxidil can treat hair loss in women. Minoxidil is approved for both men and women and can be just as effective for female pattern hair loss.
Women typically start with a lower concentration (2% topical minoxidil), though 5% is also available. Oral minoxidil isn’t recommended for women due to the risk of hypertrichosis (an excessive growth of hair all over the body, including the face).
How to apply minoxidil
The way you apply topical minoxidil may differ depending on the strength and whether you’re using a liquid, foam, or spray. Always refer to the instructions provided with your treatment.
Make sure your scalp is clean and completely dry.
Part your hair to expose the thinning areas.
Apply the recommended amount (usually 1ml) directly to your scalp.
Gently massage it in with your fingertips.
Wash your hands thoroughly afterwards.
Leave it on for 2-4 hours before washing your hair.
Repeat once or twice daily as directed.
Are there any side effects of minoxidil?
“Topical minoxidil may cause scalp irritation, itching, or dryness. Some people notice a temporary increase in shedding in the first few weeks, but don’t worry, as this is just your hair cycle adjusting to the treatment.
“Oral minoxidil can lead to unwanted hair growth in other areas, changes in blood pressure, or dizziness. Side effects tend to be more common with oral minoxidil since it works throughout your entire body.
“Most side effects of minoxidil are mild, but it's important to know what to expect.”
For a complete breakdown of potential side effects and when to seek medical advice, check out our detailed guide on minoxidil side effects.
How Chemist4U can help with hair loss
At Chemist4U, you'll find minoxidil treatments in various strengths, with topical options available from popular brands like Sons and Regaine. Our topical minoxidil is available over the counter. Simply answer a few quick questions and, if it's suitable for you, add it straight to your basket.
If minoxidil isn’t right for you, we also offer other options, such as finasteride. You could even consider combining finasteride and minoxidil if you want to experience the benefits of both.
Have any questions or concerns about your treatment? Our pharmacist team is always on hand to help whenever you need support.
Yes, minoxidil can regrow hair for many people, though it's most effective at thickening existing hair and slowing any further loss. New growth is more likely in areas that have only recently thinned, and results require consistent use over several months.
Is minoxidil legal in the UK?
Minoxidil is legal in the UK. Topical forms are available over the counter, while oral minoxidil requires a prescription (off-label). Off-label prescribing is a common practice when there’s evidence that a medication works well for a condition beyond its original purpose.
Does minoxidil work for perimenopause hair loss?
Minoxidil is designed specifically for hereditary hair loss. If you're uncertain about what's causing your hair loss, avoid using minoxidil until you've identified the cause. Keep in mind that hereditary hair loss can also become apparent during menopause.
When is the best time to use minoxidil?
Apply topical minoxidil when your scalp is clean and dry, typically in the morning and evening or once a day, depending on the strength and the type (foam, liquid or spray) of minoxidil you have.
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