Does Minoxidil Slow Hair Loss?

When it comes to effective hair loss treatments, Minoxidil is one of the most widely used solutions. Most commonly available as a serum, you can apply Minoxidil to the affected areas of your scalp to improve the appearance of your hair. But does Minoxidil slow hair loss, and how long does it take to be effective? We take a closer look at Minoxidil and explain everything you need to know about how this hair loss treatment works.

What is Minoxidil? 

Minoxidil is a vasodilator and is one of two medications that have been clinically proven to treat male pattern hair loss, alongside Finasteride. The primary function of Minoxidil is to increase blood flow to the hair follicles on your head. It strengthens your follicles and stimulates their regrowth, which results in healthier hair that looks fuller and thicker. Minoxidil is typically used as a cream or serum and can be applied directly to the affected areas of your scalp. We recommend Minoxidil for men who are a 2 on the Norwood Scale. 

How does Minoxidil work? 

Minoxidil first appeared in the form of a pill that was prescribed as a blood pressure treatment. Over time, doctors realised that people who took Minoxidil also saw a growth in specific parts of their hair. Numerous clinical trials and studies followed before Minoxidil was approved as a hair loss treatment. Due to the natural cycle of hair growth, most people experience hair shedding before seeing the results of their Minoxidil application. What’s more, it takes several months for Minoxidil to work, and regular application twice a day is required for the best possible results. 

Is Minoxidil an effective hair loss treatment? 

Several studies have proven the effectiveness of Minoxidil as a hair loss treatment, specifically when used to treat androgenetic alopecia. What’s more, researchers have found that a 5% Minoxidil solution is the most effective form of this medication, which is what we use as part of our hair loss treatments. While Minoxidil can certainly slow hair loss when used in isolation, it’s actually best used alongside Finasteride. Finasteride blocks the growth of DHT, a hormone that is responsible for the damage caused to your hair follicles. You can sign up for one of our complete hair loss plans that features Finasteride, Minoxidil, and a range of other products that can help you achieve your hair goals. 

The verdict: Does Minoxidil slow hair loss?

There’s no doubt that Minoxidil can slow hair loss and can even help to revitalise your follicles, resulting in increased growth. However, you need to be consistent with your application, and Minoxidil takes several months to show results. What’s more, Minoxidil is best used in conjunction with other hair loss treatments, specifically Finasteride. Take a free online consultation with SmartScripts today to ascertain which hair loss treatment is best for you. You can then take your first steps towards a fuller and healthier head of hair.

All of our blog articles are reviewed for medical accuracy by our Medical Director before publication.

Posted in: All, Hair loss, Minoxidil Journal