DOES MINOXIDIL WORK?

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Minoxidil is the most widely used hair lotion in the world to treat baldness. It is not a new drug, it was developed in the 70’s to treat high blood pressure. Minoxidil has been observed to promote hair growth as well as improve high blood pressure. From that moment on, it was used as a lotion in the treatment of baldness.

HOW DOES MINOXIDIL WORK?

The mechanism of action of minoxidil is related to three factors:

1. Arterial vasodilation: It refers to the increase in the diameter of arterial blood vessels that increases blood flow to the scalp.
2. Angiogenesis: Increasing the number of blood vessels in the scalp helps improve circulation.
3. Increased number of follicles in the hair growth phase, called the anagen phase.

AS A RESULT, WHAT TO EXPECT FROM MINOXIDIL?

Approximately 50% of patients will notice that their hair loss will stop after minoxidil is started. On a smaller face, it detects that thin, light hair that has become miniaturized begins to thicken and grow back. However, if the patient stops using the drug, the result will gradually disappear.

HOW SHOULD MINOXIDIL BE USED?

Minoxidil is commercially available in two concentrations: 2% and 5% minoxidil. 5% concentration is now known to be more effective. It should be administered at a dose of 1 ml twice a day. 

After the initiation of treatment, some results will only be seen after 3 to 4 months of disciplined use.

Best results are obtained after one year of treatment.

SIDE EFFECTS OF MINOXIDIL

Continuous use of Minoxdil can have some side effects, two of which are the most common:

1. Contact dermatitis: Approximately 1 to 3% of patients may have an allergy to minoxidil, which occurs with itching and scaling.
2. Facial hypertrichosis: The use of minoxidil may cause facial hair to appear, especially in women. Therefore, the medicine should be applied carefully so that it does not run down the face.

Although minoxidil is an effective remedy, it does not work for all types of hair loss, so it is very important to consult a doctor before starting any treatment.