Tempted to try hair regrowth treatments? Minoxidil, a widely used treatment for hair loss, is a game-changer for anyone struggling with male pattern baldness or thinning hair. But does this topical treatment actually work, and how? We’ll explore the science behind Minoxidil and explain exactly how it can help stimulate hair growth and restore your locks.

Understanding How Minoxidil Works – Getting To Grips With Growth Cycles

Firstly, let’s understand the basic mechanism of how hair grows. Your hair experiences a continuous cycle made up of three main phases:

Anagen Phase: This is the active growth phase, in which hair follicles produce new cells and hair strands steadily grow. This phase can last anywhere from two to seven years. The length of your hair overall will be determined by genetics and other factors.

Catagen Phase: During this transitional phase, hair growth slows down, which means the hair follicle begins to shrink. This phase lasts for about two to three weeks.

Telogen Phase: Also known as the resting phase, hair growth stops, and the hair follicle is at rest. Old hair is shed to make way for new hair during the next anagen phase – and then the cycle repeats.

Causes of Hair Loss

Hair loss has many causes. It’s common for men to experience male pattern baldness, particularly as they age, resulting in bald patches and thinning or a receding hairline. Genetic factors are at play here, too. If your father had male pattern baldness, you have a higher chance of developing it. Women, however, can also experience thinning due to genetic factors, the ageing process or the use of medications or hair treatments.

How Minoxidil Stimulates Hair Growth

Minoxidil and Blood Flow

Minoxidil aids in hair regrowth by boosting blood flow to your hair follicles (which shrink in conditions such as male pattern baldness). When applied to the scalp and hair, Minoxidil helps to widen the blood vessels in your scalp to encourage blood circulation to the hair follicles. This stimulates their growth by enhancing the supply of oxygen and nutrients to those hair follicles, promoting healthy regrowth.

Prolonging the Anagen Phase

Minoxidil has been found to extend the duration of the second phase of hair growth (the anagen phase, where your hair is actively growing). By keeping your hair follicles in the active growth stage for longer, thicker and stronger hair has the opportunity to regrow.

Stimulating Hair Follicles

Magic Minoxidil stimulates those dormant or resting hair follicles too. Any follicles that are failing to actively produce hair can be reactivated by Minoxidil treatments, helping restore your thinning or receding hair.

Cell Proliferation and DNA Synthesis

Studies have shown that Minoxidil encourages cell proliferation and DNA synthesis (in simple terms, this means it’ll promote the multiplication of those cells, helping robust and healthy hair to grow!) [1]

Combine It With Other Hair Loss Treatments

You can choose to partner Minoxidil treatments, such as Rogaine, with other hair loss treatments, such as finasteride, for an extra growth boost. The Minoxidil treatment will stimulate your hair follicles and improve blood flow, whereas the finasteride can enhance your treatment by dulling the effects of certain hormones linked to hair loss. This dual-pronged approach will help enhance your regrowth even further, shortening your treatment plan.

How To Use Minoxidil Effectively

Consistency in Application

Minoxidil treatment requires consistency; applying it once just won’t be enough to truly stimulate new hair growth, so make sure you apply the solution regularly and follow the instructions carefully. Don’t skip applications, or you’ll slow the process and won’t experience the full impact. With time and patience, you’ll soon notice new growth and a fuller head of hair!

Genetics and Underlying Causes

How effectively Minoxidil works varies from person to person, and that’s down to genetics. It’s also worth investigating to make sure you’re free of any underlying medical conditions or hormonal imbalances, as these can impact its effectiveness on your hair regrowth.

Fuller and Healthier Hair

Add Minoxidil into your regular haircare routine to beat male pattern baldness and hair thinning and restore healthy, vibrant hair. By improving blood flow, prolonging the growth phase of your hair’s cycle and stimulating resting hair follicles, Minoxidil is a simple solution for anyone trying to combat hair loss. Don’t forget to use it regularly and be patient, as your hair won’t regrow overnight. With consistency, care and a solid treatment regimen, however, you’ll soon be admiring the results.

Resources:

[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6691938/