For those unaware, Minoxidil is a topical allopathic treatment for hair loss among men and females, alike. Although it has displayed results in the past, some additional facets of this drug must be highlighted. This is in Misters' best interest in order to make an informed choice of whether or not to opt for this treatment. So here goes:
- Minoxidil has to be used indefinitely. As soon as you stop using it, the regrowth of hair will eventually shed away over the next few months.
- It is best applied twice, daily, for at least 4 months to experience initial results.
- Some hair may shed when you begin Minoxidil treatment, but this will normalize over the next two months of usage.
- You will begin seeing results only after about four to eight months of treatment and will be accustomed to it in about one year.
- You should apply at least 1 ml of the solution or half a cup of the 5% foam, twice a day, daily on the affected area.
What are the side effects of minoxidil?
Although Minoxidil is considered a safe drug in its topical form, there are few unwanted effects that one must know of:
- Localized irritation of the scalp may occur making it red and flaky. Itching and scratching can even make this even worse. See a dermatologist immediately if you experience this.
- There have been few cases of hypo-tension or low blood pressure and tachycardia or fast paced heartbeats, after usage.
- With long term use, topical Minoxidil can be absorbed in the body systemically, as well as via local application. Hence, care has to be taken among patients with pre-existing cardiovascular problems.
- It can also cause excessive hair growth on the face which is more troublesome for women than men. However, this is a reversible side effect and hair will shed once Minoxidil treatment stops.
Apart from allopathic treatments for hair loss, a shift towards little to no side-effect prone, natural hair care remedies is being seen.
Medically reviewed by Rishabh Verma, RP
