Minoxidil, known under the brand name of Rogaine (in the US) or Regaine (in the UK), is an extremely popular hair loss medication. It is designed to aid hair regrowth by shortening the telogen (shedding) phase and lengthening the anagen (growth) phase of the hair growth cycle [1].
Topical Minoxidil is effective due to direct exposure to the scalp. However, some people may find this daunting as they are responsible for applying the solution correctly, instead of simply taking a tablet.
In this article, you can learn how to apply Minoxidil topical solution, foam, and spray, and how to use Minoxidil for beard growth.
Applying topical Minoxidil solution to your scalp is relatively straightforward as you will be supplied with a dropper. When you’re using Minoxidil for a receding hairline, be careful that the solution doesn’t drip down your forehead and near your eyes.
It’s important to be careful if you’re applying Minoxidil around cats or dogs, as the drug can be harmful to pets. Be vigilant about washing your hands after application.
See this video for assistance with applying topical liquid:
Applying Minoxidil foam is much like applying the topical liquid. However, it doesn’t come with a dropper for precise application.
See this video for assistance with applying foam:
Applying Minoxidil spray requires a little more precision than foam and topical liquid, as you need to ensure that you aim exactly at the affected area when spraying. This can be difficult at first, but you’ll get the hang of it with practice.
When it comes to long hair, there isn’t really much of a difference in applying topical Minoxidil. The only thing you need to be aware of is that you are applying the solution to the affected areas correctly by exposing the scalp to reach the hair follicles.
You don’t need to spread Minoxidil solution over your whole head when using it, as this won’t do anything except make your hair greasy.
As you can see in the picture below, the person has long hair, but the thinning hair areas can be seen on the scalp. After applying Minoxidil to the affected areas, their hair has begun to grow denser. This is the case in many Minoxidil before and after photos:
When applying topical Minoxidil to your beard, the process is almost the same as applying it to the hair on the scalp. You’ll need to ensure that you allow the solution time to dry after applying, so don’t wash your face or let any other liquid come into contact with the area.
See this video for assistance with applying to the beard:
It usually takes around 8 weeks for Minoxidil to start working effectively. You should begin to see visible results in 4 months [2]. Of course, this is dependent on whether you have been using the correct dosage (usually 1 ml) twice daily.
Reducing your Minoxidil use to 3 times a week will yield worse results. Consistent use will guarantee the best chance at successful results. You should only use the recommended dosage of Minoxidil for safety. Don’t increase your dosage to make up for a missed dose or speed up new hair growth growth.
You should see significant improvement within 9 months. Signs Minoxidil is working may include:
Though it can be frustrating to wait around after applying Minoxidil, studies suggest that it is important to wait at least 4 hours for the solution to dry properly before getting hair wet. The longer the affected area is exposed to the solution, the better the results will be [3].
It may be tempting to ignore this and go about your usual routine, but this may inhibit your results. It can also easily stain fabrics so it really is for the best that you allow it time to dry properly.
Store your Minoxidil in a place where you will not forget to use it and that is free from heat and excessive moisture (not the fridge).
Men should apply Minoxidil twice daily, with most people applying one dose in the morning, and one in the evening. Further use could lead to scalp irritation. Women are usually advised to use Minoxidil once a day to avoid unwanted side effects.
The solution is only designed for scalp use (although many people also use it to stimulate beard and even eyebrow hair growth successfully). If Minoxidil comes into contact with other areas of the body you should immediately wash it with cool, clean water. If irritation occurs, you should contact your doctor.
If you’ve been using Minoxidil consistently for the recommended amount of time and you haven’t seen the desired results, then it might be time to consider a hair transplant or another Minoxidil alternative
We offer treatments including:
Anyone with hair loss can benefit from discussing their symptoms with a hair loss specialist. They can help you find the right hair loss treatment for women, as well as male hair loss treatments.
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