About minoxidil

On this page, you will learn what minoxidil is,

how it works, and what to expect when using it.

Hereditary hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) is common in both men and women and can start at a young age. The market offers countless shampoos, supplements, and serums that promise to stop hair loss or stimulate hair growth — but there is usually little to no scientific evidence for these products. Dermatologists therefore do not recommend cosmetic products as a treatment for hereditary hair loss¹.

Minoxidil is currently the only over-the-counter medicine in the Netherlands whose effectiveness against hereditary hair loss has been scientifically proven. It is registered as an over-the-counter medicine and is recommended worldwide by dermatologists². An over-the-counter medicine means that it is available at pharmacies or drugstores without a doctor's prescription.

How does minoxidil work?

Minoxidil affects the hair growth cycle and can:

  • improve blood flow to the hair follicles
  • extend the growth phase of the hair
  • slow down the decrease in hair thickness in hereditary hair loss
  • in some cases stimulate new hair growth
Important to know

Minoxidil is not a miracle cure, but it can make a significant difference. It is important to start in time and to use the product consistently and long-term. The first results are usually visible after 3 to 6 months.

Who is minoxidil suitable for?

Minoxidil is mainly used for hereditary hair loss (androgenetic alopecia). This form is common and usually develops gradually. In women, this often manifests as thinning hair on top of the head or along the parting.

What are the side effects of minoxidil?

As with any medicine, side effects can occur. The most common are:

  • itching or irritation of the scalp
  • dry or flaky skin
  • temporarily increased hair loss at the start of treatment (shedding)

Shedding is a known and usually temporary phenomenon. It occurs because hairs prematurely leave the resting phase to make way for new hair growth.

Irritation from propylene glycol

An important consideration with minoxidil is that some solutions contain propylene glycol. This substance helps the active ingredient to be better absorbed into the skin, but can cause irritation in some people. This can manifest as:

  • itching
  • redness
  • a dry or sensitive scalp

Not everyone experiences these complaints, but it is a known reason why people stop or hesitate to use it.

Minoxidil foam does not contain propylene glycol and can therefore be an alternative for a sensitive scalp.

Foam or solution: what's the difference?

Minoxidil foam and minoxidil solution are both effective treatments for hereditary hair loss. Both are equally effective – the choice mainly depends on ease of use and skin sensitivity.

Minoxidil foam versus lotion

Minoxidil foam

  • Without propylene glycol
  • Less chance of irritation
  • Absorbs quickly
  • Suitable for sensitive scalp
  • Also known as minoxidil foam

Minoxidil solution

  • Contains propylene glycol
  • Liquid application
  • Targeted application possible
  • Can cause irritation in sensitive skin

How to use minoxidil?

Minoxidil is usually applied to the scalp twice a day.

Important points to note:

  • apply to a dry scalp
  • distribute evenly
  • wash hands after use

Consistent use is essential to see an effect.

When do you see results?

The first results are usually visible after a few months of use. Initially, hair loss may seem to increase. This is the aforementioned shedding effect and is usually temporary. For good results, long-term and consistent use is important. If you stop, the achieved effect may gradually decrease again.

Frequently asked questions about minoxidil

Is minoxidil safe?
DermaDomein exclusively sells Dutch-registered minoxidil. This is a controlled medicine. Always use it according to the leaflet or the advice of a doctor or pharmacist.

How to use minoxidil?
Always use minoxidil according to the leaflet. It is usually applied to the scalp twice a day.

Do you have to keep using minoxidil?
Yes. If you stop using it, the achieved effect may gradually decrease again.

Want to know more?

Do you have any questions? Please visit our frequently asked questions page or read more in the knowledge base. Are you a woman and suffering from hair loss? Then check out our special 'For Her' page.

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Sources

1. There are no dermatological treatment guidelines that include cosmetic products for the treatment of hereditary hair loss.
2. For example: European Dermatology Forum – S3 guideline for Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA).