5 Tips and Tricks for Minoxidil Treatment
Hair loss, thinning and balding can be extremely distressing and have a huge negative effect on self-image. It can be caused by a variety of genetic and environmental factors. Female and male hair loss is distinguished as two separate conditions by the medical profession, as they present differently and have different options for treatment.
Androgenetic alopecia, the most common cause of hair loss, presents as either male pattern baldness, or female pattern hair loss. In men, thinned out hair often appears above either temple, or presents as a receding hairline.
It can also affect the crown. Female pattern hair loss often encompasses an all-over thinning of the hair, which is most noticeable around the hairline.
An increasingly mainstay and popular treatment option for both male and female hair loss is Minoxidil. It is readily available in either formulation for men or women and offers a proven solution to androgenetic alopecia. With its reasonable price point, proven effectiveness, and over-the-counter availability, it is now easier than ever to reverse signs of thinning and hair loss to restore body confidence.
What is Minoxidil?
Minoxidil was originally formulated as an oral tablet, available on prescription only, for use in lowering blood pressure for those suffering from hypertension. Hypertrichosis (increased hair growth) was noted as a side effect, especially in the sideburn area.
Minoxidil was then formulated as a topical solution – either liquid or foam based – as an over-the-counter solution to hair loss.
It is now the primary treatment choice for androgenetic alopecia and an off-label option for other hair loss conditions. Since Minoxidil is a vasodilator, it increases blood flow directly to the scalp, helping to increase the strength and quality of pre-existing hair follicles, which are responsible for keeping the hair strong.
Our hair goes through 4 phases regularly, and when one phase is not working as it should, we may experience shedding or hair loss. It is thought that Minoxidil may increase the active-growth phase, which results in stronger and thicker hair growth, before entering the resting phase.
Minoxidil is scientifically proven to help with hair loss and is approved by the Food and Drug Administration. It is commonly sold under the names Rogaine and other popular brands. Minoxidil is safe, effective, and reasonably priced to use as a hair loss treatment in most people between 18 and 65 years old.
Tips for Usage:
Minoxidil comes in different strengths and formulations, depending on whether it is to be used to treat male or female hair loss. You should always ensure that you are using the correct strength, with products such as Kirkland Minoxidil foam 5%, only being suitable for men.
Minoxidil should be used specifically as stated in the manufacturer’s instructions. This may include an application of 1-2 times a day. Products such as Women’s Rogaine Minoxidil 5% foam advise avoiding contact with the eyes and other parts of the body and require application once a day for at least 3 months.
Minoxidil solution should be massaged directly into the scalp, ensuring that hands are washed thoroughly afterwards to prevent irritation. The scalp should be completely dry prior to application, and the area should be saturated with the solution.
The hair should not be shampooed or washed for at least 4 hours after use. Minoxidil should never be used when the scalp is red, inflamed, or sensitive.
Minoxidil can stain clothing, bedding, and furniture, so always bear this in mind when applying, especially before bed.
Minoxidil should be applied consistently and regularly for the best results. This could take up to 90 days. The benefits of treatment will cease when the product is not applied. Before commencing your treatment, think carefully about how you can plan this around your lifestyle and commitments.
Conclusion
Hair loss can be a debilitating condition, with many finding that it destroys body confidence and acts as a trigger for disorders such as anxiety and stress. It can have a severe and adverse effect on the psyche of an individual and far-reaching emotional reactions as a result. The evolution of medications that can be accessed easily and at a reasonable price, which have a proven efficacy at reversing the effects of hair loss, can have a hugely profound positive impact on quality of life.
Resources:
Campese VM. Minoxidil: a review of its pharmacological properties and therapeutic use.