Tag Archive for: Female Pattern Baldness

Minoxidil Liquid Or Foam: Which One Is Right for You?

When choosing a hair regrowth treatment using Minoxidil, you might wonder whether the foam or liquid version is right for you. Dr. Ben Behnam always recommends liquid because foam has a lot of air pockets and gets trapped in your hair. This is an image of a client using a liquid for of Minoxidil with a dropper or pipette that has exact measurements on the glass tube for accuracy.

Once you’re on the path toward hair restoration, you’ll be faced with a variety of choices. For example, you may find yourself with the option of using foam or liquid Minoxidil like our customizable liquid topical Minoxidil treatment here at Happy Head. While the purpose of the medication is the same, they both differ in terms of application and absorption. Learning about the differences between Minoxidil foam and Minoxidil liquid can help you make an informed decision when the time comes to make your choice. 

What is Minoxidil? 

According to the National Library of Medicine, Minoxidil is a medication that’s commonly used for treating hair loss. Minoxidil is a vasodilator–a medication that widens blood vessels. Because of its ability to expand blood vessels, oral minoxidil was initially approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of severe high blood pressure. However, people who were prescribed the drug for their blood pressure began reporting a welcome side effect – hair growth!  As a result, doctors started prescribing minoxidil throughout the 1980s as an off-label medication to treat hair loss clients. 

Topical Minoxidil—available in 2% and  5% concentrations—is an effective hair loss treatment for both men and women. Minoxidil is a vasodilator, which means it works by widening the blood vessels in the scalp, which then increases blood flow to the hair follicles. This increased blood flow delivers more nutrients and oxygen to the hair follicles, helping to stimulate hair growth. In addition, Minoxidil increases the size of hair follicles, which can lead to thicker, healthier hair. By “feeding” hair follicles, Minoxidil results in improved hair growth, healthier follicles, and longer strands. (01, 02)

Is Minoxidil an Effective Treatment for Hair Loss? 

Several clinical studies have investigated the efficacy of Minoxidil for the treatment of hair loss. One study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that topical Minoxidil was effective in promoting hair growth in men with androgenetic alopecia, a common form of hair loss. The study involved 984 men with mild to moderate hair loss who were randomly assigned to receive either 5% topical minoxidil, 2% topical minoxidil, or a placebo. After 48 weeks of treatment, both the 5% and 2% minoxidil groups had significantly more hair growth than the placebo group. (03)

What Types of Hair Loss Does Minoxidil Treat? 

Although topical Minoxidil has received approval from the FDA for the treatment of specific hair loss conditions, the medication is also used to effectively treat a variety of hair loss disorders. (04)

The FDA currently approves topical Minoxidil for the treatment of these hair loss disorders: 

  • androgenetic alopecia
  • female & male pattern hair loss

However, Minoxidil is also successfully prescribed off-label for:

  • alopecia areata
  • beard and eyebrow growth
  • central centrifugal alopecia
  • chemotherapy-induced hair loss 
  • frontal fibrosing alopecia
  • telogen effluvium

Minoxidil is available in both topical and oral forms. The topical formulation is applied directly to the scalp or other affected areas, while the oral medication is ingested in tablet form. When applying the topical version, users will have to choose between foam or liquid Minoxidil. At Happy Head, our board-certified dermatologists offer both oral and liquid forms of Minoxidil, so after reading this article you can set up a free consultation with them online here. 

Happy Head custom hair loss treatments are made for you and your unique hair loss condition and pattern. We base this formula off of your unique responses to our questionnaire and your consultation with your dedicated board-certified dermatologist.

Minoxidil Foam Or Minoxidil Liquid?

When deciding between foam or liquid Minoxidil, users may need to consider a few factors. While both formulations are effective in promoting hair growth, there are some differences between them that may influence which one is best for a particular individual.

Minoxidil Liquid: Pros and Cons

Minoxidil liquid is the tried and true original formulation of the medication, and it has been available since the 1980s. This liquid version is applied directly to the scalp using a dropper, typically twice a day. One advantage of the liquid form is that it allows for more precise application to the scalp. This can be especially useful for individuals who have a specific area of the scalp where they are experiencing hair loss, as it allows them to target that area more effectively. 

Furthermore, some individuals may prefer the liquid formulation because it can be easier to spread evenly over the scalp. The liquid version of Minoxidil slides freely between hair strands. It also flows through the scalp’s dips and valleys much more thoroughly than the foam version., ensuring adequate coverage. Liquid Minoxidil also offers dry scalp or brittle hair some moisture, improving hair health. 

Along with these advantages comes a few disadvantages. The liquid version of Minoxidil can make an oily scalp look greasy. In addition, oily hair may look even oilier when using liquid minoxidil. Another disadvantage of the liquid formulation is that it can be messy and time-consuming to apply. 

Some people find it challenging to control the amount of medication that’s dispensed from the dropper. The solution to this problem is to use a dropper that’s calibrated and specific to the topical. Lastly, the liquid can take some time to dry after application. For individuals who are in a hurry to get out the door, waiting for the liquid to dry can be a small inconvenience. 

Minoxidil Foam: Pros and Cons

Minoxidil foam is a newer formulation that was introduced in the early 2000s. Much like hair mousse, the foam is applied directly to the scalp using a nozzle. One benefit of the foam formulation is that it makes application a breeze and the foam dries quickly. Minoxidil foam is  less messy than liquid formulations. 

Because the foam is applied using a nozzle, it is easy to control the amount of medication that is applied, and there is less risk of accidentally spilling or wasting the medication. In addition, the foam is less likely to drip or run down the scalp, which can be a problem with the liquid version. 

One significant disadvantage of the foam formulation is that it’s not as easy to target specific areas of the scalp. Because the foam is applied using a nozzle, targeting a specific area of the scalp is challenging. In addition, the foam tends to sit on top of any hair rather than flow to the scalp area. Therefore, foam requires a few extra steps to massage the medication directly onto the scallop. 

Which is More Effective? 

In terms of effectiveness, both the liquid and foam formulations of Minoxidil have been shown to be effective in promoting hair growth. Several clinical studies have investigated the efficacy of Minoxidil for the treatment of hair loss, and most have found that both formulations are effective in promoting hair growth and improving hair density.

One study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology compared the efficacy of 5% minoxidil foam to 5% minoxidil liquid in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia in men. The study included 45 men who were randomly assigned to receive either the foam or the liquid formulation. After 24 weeks of treatment, both groups showed significant improvement in hair count and hair thickness. Therefore, both foam and liquid are effective treatments for hair loss. (05, 06) As mentioned, at Happy Head, we’ve found our patients to use less product when using the liquid topical form of Minoxidil since the liquid gives you more control over the placement of the liquid topical medication as opposed to losing most of it in the hair when using a foam version.

Minoxidil Foam & Minoxidil Liquid Side Effects

Both Minoxidil foam and liquid have similar side effects. Because both formulations are topical, the most common side effect is skin irritation. Along with irritation, redness, itching, and dryness of the scalp can also occur. 

While these symptoms can be bothersome, they are generally mild and usually resolve on their own with continued treatment. A few rare side effects include fluid retention, blood pressure changes, and electrolyte imbalances. For the most part, Minoxidil topical, both foam and topical, is safe and effective for promoting hair growth in both men and women. 

Which One Should You Choose? Foam Or Liquid

Happy Head’s liquid Minoxidil is made with a special base solution, which is designed to soothe the scalp and minimize the appearance of side effects. Unlike other Minoxidil formulations, Happy Head’s gentler formula reduces skin irritation. Are you wondering which topical hair loss treatment is right for you? Consult with our board-certified dermatologists to develop an individualized hair regrowth plan with you in mind. 

Resources: 

(01) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6691938/

(02) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15034503/

(03) https://www.jaad.org/article/S0190-9622(03)03692-2/fulltext

(04) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482378/

(05) https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0190962210018116

(06) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6691938/

 

Your Comprehensive Guide to Oral Minoxidil

 

If you are dealing with male or female pattern baldness, you’ve probably spent hours researching regrowth options for your hair. And, you probably learned about Minoxidil topical foams and liquid solutions. At Happy Head, we’ve created your comprehensive guide to Oral Minoxidil to answer all of your questions on your search.  Two and five percent Minoxidil is sold at pharmacies and other retailers under the name Rogaine and by prescription in higher doses. You may have even given it a try.  

But, you may not be aware that Minoxidil is also available as a pill.  It’s only available by prescription, and it’s not advertised. A lot of people don’t know about it. But, they should. Some people who don’t respond to topical Minoxidil may have success with oral Minoxidil.  Here’s everything you need to know about oral Minoxidil and how it works.  

Oral Minoxidil Was the First Hair Regrowth Treatment

Back in the ‘70s, Minoxidil was only available in a pill format.  Neither topical foam nor liquid existed.  Here’s the background.  

Minoxidil tablets were initially designed to treat high blood pressure. The medicine is a vasodilator that opens up the blood vessels and relaxes artery walls.  During testing for hypertension, researchers discovered that one of the (not so) adverse effects was hypertrichosis, excessive hair growth. More testing ensued, word spread, and dermatologists began prescribing Minoxidil pills to treat their patients with male and female pattern hair loss.  

In 1987, topical Minoxidil was developed and quickly became the go-to treatment for androgenetic alopecia and other types of hair loss. As topicals took off, the pills fell by the wayside. After all, topicals didn’t require a prescription. Everyone seemed to forget that pills were even an option to treat hair loss.  

Oral Minoxidil Works, But Don’t Ask Anyone to Explain Why

Even today, doctors have yet to learn exactly why Minoxidil works.  One hypothesis is that the medication increases oxygen and blood flow to the hair follicles.  When that happens, the hair growth cycle’s anagen (growth) phase is prolonged and the telogen (resting) phase when your hair falls out is reduced. (01) 

If you take the oral Minoxidil route, the odds of it working are favorable.  In a study of over 19,000 people taking low doses of Minoxidil from .25 to 5 milligrams once or twice per day, 61 to 100 percent of participants saw significant improvement after taking oral Minoxidil. (02)

What’s also interesting is that oral Minoxidil may work when topical Minoxidil doesn’t.  Here’s why.  Many people have an enzyme called sulfotransferase.  Sulfotransferase wakes up your hair follicles and activates Minoxidil.  When people don’t have that enzyme in their hair follicles, they don’t respond to topical Minoxidil.  However, those same people do have sulfotransferase in their livers, which means that people may respond to oral Minoxidil when they don’t respond to topical Minoxidil. (03)

Oral Minoxidil is Used to Treat Many Hair Loss Conditions

Dermatologists prescribe oral Minoxidil to treat various hair loss conditions, most commonly male and female pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia).  Oral Minoxidil is also used for other types of non-scarring alopecia, including alopecia areata, traction alopecia, anagen effluvium, and severe telogen effluvium.  

Happy Head's Oral Minoxidil pill that you can take at the highest strength for the best hair growth results.

Here are the Reasons Why You May Want to Consider Oral Minoxidil

Why do people choose the oral route if topical Minoxidil is also an option?  There are a few reasons. Topical Rogaine can sometimes contain propylene glycol, which can be irritating. Removing the ingredient can help, but people still sometimes develop a rash or an allergy.  In this case, oral Minoxidil may be a better option. Pills are also an option if you’ve already tried topical Minoxidil for at least six months and the growth isn’t meeting expectations. Lastly, some people find that topical Minoxidil dries their hair changing the texture and causing breakage. Oral Minoxidil alleviates the issue.  

1. Minimal Side Effects

Taking an oral medication designed for hypertension can seem scary. You don’t want to trade off one problem for another, especially when the issue you are trying to address is cosmetic.  Not to worry. Minoxidil doses prescribed for hair loss are so low side effects are rare.  Here’s what people have experienced:

Hypertrichosis – When oral Minoxidil makes your hair grow, it doesn’t distinguish between the hair on your head, body, or face.  It can make all of your hair grow.  Yes, it’s an annoying side effect, but it can easily be managed.  Men usually aren’t as bothered as women, but hair removal (ironic, right?) and dosage adjustments are quick fixes if necessary.  

Shedding – Yes, it’s true that just like topical Minoxidil, oral Minoxidil can also cause temporary shedding when first using the medicine.  The reason why is that Minoxidil adjusts your hair’s growth cycle.  If shedding occurs, it’s best to continue taking your oral Minoxidil as prescribed.  Shedding usually happens within the first six weeks and resolves after four weeks.   

Low Blood Pressure – Minoxidil is prescribed at much higher doses (10-40 milligrams) to control high blood pressure.  Even though much lower doses are used to treat male and female pattern baldness,  it is possible, yet not typical, for people to experience dizziness due to low blood pressure.  If that happens, contact your dermatologist, who can adjust your dosage.  

Other side effects may include swollen ankles, fluid retention, headaches, and a fast heart rate.  Keep in mind that less than two percent of people using oral Minoxidil experience side effects, so the likelihood that you will have these or other symptoms are low. (04) 

2. Keep Track of Your Blood Pressure and Heart Rate

Although it’s not likely that you will experience side effects from taking oral Minoxidil, some people do experience fluctuations in blood pressure, even at low doses. As a precaution, purchasing and using a home blood pressure monitor is a good idea.  Take readings before you begin the medication and check again once each week. It’s a good idea to track the readings, keep a chart, and bring the results to appointments.

3. It’s Inexpensive

If you have health insurance with a prescription plan, oral Minoxidil is usually covered. If not, the retail cost is low. Depending upon where you fill your prescriptions, a 30-day supply of oral Minoxidil can cost less than seventy-five cents per pill.  

4. It’s Easy to Take

Topical Minoxidil works well for many people without any issues. However, some people find that topical Minoxidil can cause irritation or be difficult to apply. Minoxidil works on the scalp, but the foam sometimes gets stuck in the hair.  Liquids can be runny.  Oral Minoxidil only requires one or two daily low-dose pills without any hassle or mess.  

5. Low Doses are Available

As mentioned, the amount of Minoxidil necessary to treat male or female pattern baldness is significantly less than what’s required to treat high blood pressure. Whereas 20 to 40 milligrams are prescribed to treat hypertension, a range of .25 to 1.25 milligrams is often prescribed for androgenetic alopecia.   If necessary, a 2.5-milligram tablet can easily be cut into quarters or halves with a pill cutter.  Men sometimes take higher doses than women.  

6. Can Be Combined with Other Hair Loss Medications

Always check with your doctor before combining medications, especially if you use other medicines that affect your blood pressure. That said, it’s generally safe to take oral Minoxidil with DHT blockers such Finasteride or Dutasteride like in our SuperCapsule™. Oral and topical medications can be combined as well. Research indicates that using Minoxidil and DHT blockers simultaneously leads to effective results. (05)

7. Take it Under a Doctor’s Care

You may not be aware of situations when it’s not safe to take oral Minoxidil. That’s why it’s important to have a doctor supervising your treatment protocol.  You want to avoid aggravating drug allergies, liver conditions, adrenaline dysfunction, heart conditions, and other health issues.

8. It Isn’t a Quick Fix or a Hair Loss Cure

Like topical Minoxidil, oral Minoxidil is a long-term commitment. Once you stop taking Minoxidil pills, you can lose new hair growth.  That’s why it’s important to use the medication under the supervision of a licensed dermatologist and be consistent. 

9. Be Sure to Keep Your Follow-up Appointments

If you begin an oral Minoxidil protocol, it’s important that you follow up with your provider as he or she recommends.  Initially, you may need to schedule appointments every three months.  Once your dose is established and stable, you may only need to see your doctor every six months to a year.  

Now that you know the benefits of oral Minoxidil, you may wonder if it’s right for you.  That’s where we come in.  Thanks to telemedicine, you can consult with one of our board-certified dermatologists without ever visiting an office or pharmacy. We’ll review your medical history and get a better understanding of the type of hair loss you’re experiencing. If oral Minoxidil is the way to go, we’ll ship your prescription in discreet packaging directly to your door.  

Resources:

(01) https://www.aad.org/dw/dw-insights-and-inquiries/archive/2022/low-dose-oral-minoxidil-alopecia

(02) https://www.aad.org/dw/dw-insights-and-inquiries/archive/2022/low-dose-oral-minoxidil-alopecia

(03) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6691938/

(04) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33639244/

(05) https://cosmoderma.org/combination-therapy-with-oral-minoxidil-and-dutasteride-in-the-treatment-of-male-patterned-baldness-a-case-report/

 

How to Talk to Your Partner About Hair Loss

Happy couple on their hair regrowth journey with happy head.

Talking to your partner about hair loss can be tricky. What are you supposed to say? “Have you noticed that your hairline is receding?” After all, your significant other may be embarrassed, or be ignoring the issue. They may also fall into the category of people who genuinely don’t care about their appearances. Not to mention that you don’t accidentally want your partner to question whether or not you find them attractive. Aargh. Maybe you’re better off not saying anything?

Well, that depends on your approach. If you are supportive, raising the topic can be helpful. You can help your partner feel better, and you can also help give him or her the confidence needed to get treatment. Remember, it’s not what you say, but how you say it. Let’s talk about the best way to start the discussion.  

Remember that Timing is Everything

Has your partner said anything about their hair loss? Made any jokes? If so, he or she is opening the floor to a conversation. Be careful not to raise the topic out of the blue or force the conversation. Doing so may make your partner feel awkward.  You want to calm any insecurities rather than fuel them. What if they don’t give you an in? They just may not be ready to talk about it. Leave the topic alone for now and see if it comes up later.  

Show Empathy

If you and your partner do discuss their hair loss, keep in mind that your partner may be feeling a whole array of emotions.  Getting older, no longer being desirable, and fear of losing control over one’s body can go hand-in-hand with male pattern baldness, female pattern baldness, or other types of alopecia. Yes, these emotions are real and can be challenging to overcome.  After all, hair is a big part of our physical identity. It’s not uncommon to refer to a person as the “guy with the blonde spiky hair” or the “woman with the long, dark, wavy hair.”  

How can you approach the topic in a way that won’t diminish these feelings? Remember that compassion goes a long way. One way to do that is to acknowledge your partner’s grief. Let them know that you understand hair loss is upsetting and that you care.  Avoid statements such as “maybe it will grow back” that invalidate their feelings. You may also want to ask whether your partner wants you to just listen or if he or she wants your input. Unsolicited advice may not be welcome.  

Do Your Homework

If your partner does want advice, you’ll want to be prepared. Here are a few points that will be helpful to know. First of all, the most common reason why people lose their hair is typically due to androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness).  It’s a genetic condition that occurs when a person’s body converts Testosterone to a substance called Dihydrotestosterone or DHT. DHT attacks the hair follicles, causing them to shrink and eventually close up. Existing hair sheds and new hair fails to grow. Many people don’t realize that androgenetic alopecia can be treated.  

Minoxidil, known as Rogaine, is often used to keep hair follicles open. Finasteride or Dutasteride, DHT blockers, can be prescribed and used simultaneously. If your significant other is a guy and is concerned about sexual side effects, you can tell him not to worry. Pills are what can cause side effects. Topical formulas, which are just as effective, don’t carry the same risk profile. (01) Women don’t carry the same risk profile, although Finasteride and Dutasteride should only be used by women who aren’t pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant.  

Although male and female pattern baldness is the predominant type of alopecia that men and women experience, it’s not the only type. They can also experience temporary hair loss from illnesses or stressful events, alopecia areata, lichen planopilaris, and other types of alopecia. A trip to the dermatologist is the best way to find out for sure what kind of alopecia your partner has.  

Offer Reassurance

Your partner may or may not decide to seek treatment for their hair loss. No matter where they stand on the topic, it’s important to let them know that their decision is okay with you. Self-confidence is what matters.  

Build a Healthy Lifestyle

Does your partner eat right, exercise, or take any necessary supplements? If not, now is the time to make lifestyle changes that can promote healthier hair. Smoking, too much alcohol, poor diet, and stress all contribute to hair loss. As a couple, you have an automatic built-in support system to improve any bad habits. As a matter of fact, couples who quit smoking together are 5.83 times more likely to succeed than when only one partner quits. (02)

Lifestyle enhancements are more fun and longer-lasting when you make them together. Cooking, going for walks, and taking bike rides not only improve hair health but are also nice bonding opportunities. And, what’s more romantic than reading the back of protein powder labels together? Well maybe that one doesn’t top your list of date night activities, but it is a good learning opp for both of you. (If you aren’t familiar with the benefits of protein powder for hair loss, check out Dr. Ben Behnam’s segment on Gillian Lockitch’s Growing Older Living Younger podcast.)           

Help Step Up Their Style Game

Some people are into fashion, and some aren’t.  If your significant other is open to some subtle (or not so subtle) changes, this may be the time for a new hairstyle or a shopping trip. A good barber or hair stylist will know what styles best camouflage bald spots or make thinning hair look thicker. The right clothes can strategically direct attention away from hair. Not to mention that a fresh cut, jeans that fit just right, or a new dress can do wonders for a person’s confidence.  

Be There When They’re Ready

It’s no secret that many people would rather be anywhere other than a doctor’s office. If your partner falls into this category, that’s okay. See if they would like you to accompany them to their appointment. If not, don’t feel slighted. It’s not you, they may just prefer to go solo. If he or she is really skittish, telemedicine may be a better option. They can consult with a board-certified dermatologist and hair specialist from the comfort of their own home. Prescription medications can now be prescribed through telemedicine, and orders can be delivered in discrete packages directly to their front door.       

Hopefully, by now, you’ve learned that you don’t have to be a psychologist to help your partner deal with his or her hair loss. You just need to be a good listener and offer helpful advice when wanted. You have the opportunity to be the voice of reason. The initial shock will wear off over time and your partner will either accept their fate or fight it. Remember, Happy Head is here to help. Contact us if you’d like more information about male pattern hair loss or how to get the strongest prescription hair loss medications delivered directly to your door.  

 

Resources:

(01) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34634163/#:~:text=Conclusion%3A%20Topical%20finasteride%20significantly%20improves,impact%20on%20serum%20DHT%20concentrations.

(02) https://cardiovascularbusiness.com/topics/clinical/vascular-endovascular/quitting-smoking-easier-couples-try-together#:~:text=At%20the%20end%20of%20the,partner%20was%20attempting%20to%20quit.

 

Is Minoxidil (Rogaine) Safe for Women?

You may be familiar with Minoxidil that’s used to treat thinning hair and bald spots.  The medication was initially tested, marketed, and FDA-approved for men with male pattern baldness.  If you’re a woman experiencing hair loss, you may wonder if Minoxidil is safe and effective for you too.  After all, Minoxidil is available under the brand name Rogaine over the counter at most big box retailers and pharmacies.  It’s easy to buy and use.  

Dermatologists Often Recommend Minoxidil to Their Female Patients

Minoxidil is safe, and it’s the medication most often recommended to women by dermatologists to treat their hair loss conditions.  Before you run to the store, though, there are a few things you should know.  

Minoxidil Is FDA Approved for Women

If you’re considering using Minoxidil to treat your hair loss, you’ll be happy to know that the five percent topical foam and solution was FDA-approved for women in 2014.  The medication was used off-label for women before it was approved.  Why is FDA approval notable?  Because it means that the manufacturer proved that its product is safe and effective for its intended use.  FDA approval also means the product is manufactured to federal quality standards.  

Higher Doses of Minoxidil are Available by Prescription

Oral and topical Minoxidil doses above five percent are available to women but only off-label by prescription.  Don’t be concerned about using prescription medication off-label, though.  The FDA knows that medical providers do that.  Off-label means that dermatologists may prescribe a drug for use that isn’t approved when the provider determines that the medication is medically appropriate.  

Minoxidil Is Used to Treat Female Pattern Baldness and Other Hair Loss Conditions

Minoxidil is most often recommended and prescribed to treat androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as female pattern baldness.  Female pattern baldness occurs in women who are genetically predisposed to hair loss.  When women experience this condition, they typically see hair loss along their parts first.  Over time, the part widens as the hair in the area continues to thin and fall out.  While men who experience male pattern baldness can lose all of their hair over time, women typically don’t.  Women are more likely to see diffuse thinning on the crown of their heads.  

Minoxidil is often prescribed for other hair loss conditions as well.  Dermatologists often recommend Minoxidil to their female patients with alopecia areata, frontal fibrosing alopecia, lichen planopilaris, and other types of alopecia.

Minoxidil is Available to Women in Different Forms and Doses

Liquid & Foam Rogaine

If you go to the store, you’ll find foam and liquid Minoxidil in two and five-percent formulas.  Minoxidil is the same as Rogaine.  You may also find generic store brands of Minoxidil under names such as Equate and Kirkland Hair Regrowth Treatment, which contain the same active ingredients.  

Initially, only two percent formulas were marketed for women.  However, research indicates that higher doses are more effective for treating female pattern hair loss.  Although both two and five percent solutions increased hair growth, the five percent demonstrated statistical superiority over the two percent. (01)  When choosing between the liquid and foam, you may want to consider foam that does not contain propylene glycol which can be an irritant to some women. 

Oral Minoxidil

Oral Minoxidil is an alternative to topical and is available by prescription.  The medication is effective in regrowing hair in women with female pattern baldness. (02)  Oral Minoxidil was initially tested in higher doses to treat high blood pressure.  When used to treat genetic hair loss, much lower doses are prescribed.   

Minoxidil with DHT Blockers

The most effective treatments attack hair loss from different angles.  Women often use Minoxidil simultaneously with DHT blockers such as Finasteride or Spironolactone.  Minoxidil enlarges the hair follicles, while Finasteride or Spironolactone prevents testosterone from converting to DHT.  When DHT is blocked, it can’t bind to the receptors in your hair follicle so your hair won’t be at risk.  

Customized Topical Minoxidil Formulas

Treatments for female pattern baldness may differ from woman to woman.  What works for one may not work for another, which is why customized formulas are often best.  The most effective treatments attack hair loss from different angles.  A benefit of customized formulas is that Minoxidil can be prescribed up to 10 percent, which is significantly higher than what’s available over the counter.  Retinol can be added to increase absorption, and cortisone can be added if necessary to prevent irritation from higher concentrations of Minoxidil. Many women also like the convenience of having all of the hair loss medications they need to be compounded into one formula rather than having to take or use multiple medications.       

Minoxidil Side Effects are Usually Minimal

Minoxidil users usually don’t experience many side effects.  Topicals can cause some redness, flaking, and irritation.  However, eliminating propylene glycol usually resolves the issue.  Oral Minoxidil was originally tested and marketed to treat high blood pressure.  Because oral medications are systemic, side effects such as a fluctuating heart rate are possible.  Side effects are rare, though.  Doses of oral Minoxidil prescribed for hair loss are typically significantly lower than for high blood pressure.  

Minoxidil Can Cause Initial Shedding

If you’ve been researching Minoxidil for your hair loss, you may have heard about the “dread shed” that can occur when first using Minoxidil.  Yes, some women find that they lose more hair at first.  The reason why is because Minoxidil speeds up your hair’s growth cycle.  The resting phase occurs faster than it otherwise would.  Everyone doesn’t experience an increase in shedding.  However, If you do shed initially, don’t panic.  Your hair’s growth cycle will regulate within a few weeks.  

Trying Minoxidil is the Best Way to Determine Whether it will Work for You

It would be nice if there were a way to know whether Minoxidil will help regrow your hair.  A response test has been designed and marketed to do just that.  The test measures the amount of sulfotransferase enzyme activity in plucked hair follicles to predict whether or not Minoxidil will be effective. Research indicates that the sulfotransferase activity predicts treatment response with 93 percent sensitivity and 83 percent specificity. (03)  There’s a catch, though.  

The test will only help determine if women will respond to two or five percent topical Minoxidil.  The test does not indicate whether or not women will potentially respond to higher topical dosages or to oral Minoxidil.  It also does not indicate whether Minoxidil will be effective when used with a DHT blocker such as Finasteride or Spironolactone.  The best way to know if Minoxidil will work is by trial.  It typically takes six to twelve months to see results. 

If you have been diagnosed with female pattern baldness and are thinking about trying Minoxidil, here’s the takeaway.  Minoxidil is safe for women to use and has been proven to be an effective treatment for many.  Minoxidil often works best with Finasteride, Spironolactone, or another DHT blocker.  A topical with a percentage higher than five or oral Minoxidil will require a prescription.  If you have more questions about whether Minodixidl is right for you, Happy Head’s board-certified dermatologists can help.  Contact us and our hair growth experts will help select the best solution for you, without a visit to the doctor’s office. 

 

Resources:

(01) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15034503/

(02) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32851744/

(03) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24773771/