Our hair is our crowning glory, and whether we are men or women, we all know how essential our hair is for our appearance and self-confidence. At the same time, losing hair can be stressful, regardless of the cause. From vitamin deficiencies to stressful lives and harsh hair products, there are many causes of hair loss. Though there are multiple ways and hair care tips to help regrow hair, some medications like Minoxidil manage hair loss more effectively and are a popular hair fall solution.
Here are five things you need to know about Minoxidil– the hair fall solution for women and men and its effects on hair growth.
Here’s What You Need to Know About Minoxidil!
What is Minoxidil?
Minoxidil is a topical or oral medicine that stimulates hair growth and can reverse balding. It is usually available as a liquid or a foam that needs to be applied to the scalp. The topical application of Minoxidil for hair growth is more effective in people under 40 years of age who have recently experienced hair loss. It does not cause permanent hair growth and must be continuously used to ensure consistent hair growth.
How Does It Affect Hair Growth?
Minoxidil gained popularity when it was found to promote hair growth in people suffering from male pattern baldness. It is a type of vasodilator drug that has effectively stimulated hair growth in both men and women. The exact mechanism of how Minoxidil encourages hair growth is still unclear and understudied. However, some mechanisms have been suggested:
- Increases blood flow to the scalp and stimulates hair follicles
- Shortens the telogen phase of the hair follicle cycle
- Gives resting hair follicles a premature entry into the anagen (growth) phase
- It may also increase the size of the hair follicles
- Orally administered Minoxidil is said to lower blood pressure levels, relax muscles and open the potassium channels.
It is important to note that Minoxidil may not provide the necessary hair growth effects in sudden or patchy hair loss and unexplained hair loss.
How to Use Minoxidil?
Minoxidil is a prescription medicine and should always be used under the supervision of a dermatologist. You will be prescribed a liquid or foam-based formulation of Minoxidil that you will need to apply twice a day.
Always follow the directions of your dermatologist and those mentioned on the product label to ensure you are not using an excess dosage of the product. Depending upon the area of hair loss, you may be given a meter-spray application (for large areas of the scalp), a small extended spray applicator (for small areas), and a rub-on applicator. Clean and dry your hair and scalp before applying Minoxidil. Part your hair in the area where it is thinning and apply the solution. Gently rub it in and allow the solution to dry before combing your hair or retiring to bed. Avoid applying the product to other areas of the body. Do not apply Minoxidil to a sunburnt or irritated scalp.
Many people assume that applying an excess of Minoxidil will cause a faster rate of hair growth, but it is not so. You might see effects only after using Minoxidil regularly for at least four months to one year.
Benefits of Minoxidil for Hair Growth
Talk of hair growth medications and Minoxidil will almost always top the list. The many benefits of Minoxidil for women and men are:
- Stimulates hair growth: The most significant benefit of Minoxidil is stimulating hair follicles and promoting hair growth.
- Increases thickness and density of hair: While stimulating hair growth and helping cover the receding hairline, Minoxidil increases the density and thickness of hair, restoring your crowning glory.
- Helps treat hair disorders: Minoxidil has been shown to improve hair growth in those suffering from hair disorders like androgenic alopecia and female pattern hair loss.
Minoxidil is suitable for all types and textures of hair. However, if you have colored hair, it may cause increased irritation. Before using Minoxidil, inform your doctor about any medications you may be taking, especially for high blood pressure.
Conclusion
Hair loss is frustrating and can add more stressors to your life. We are aware and understand the same. Minoxidil is one of the best hair regrowth treatments to help manage your hair loss and restore your tresses and confidence. However, it is always recommended to consult with your dermatologist before using the medication. If you have any queries or concerns about your hair loss, wish to get tips for healthy hair, or need more information about the use of Minoxidil for men and women, reach out to our experts at Skin and Hair Academy right away!
