Is it safe to use minoxidil for hair growth? Seven side effects to be wary

Hair loss due to age or specific medical conditions is one problem affecting both men and women. Whether it’s a home remedy or medicinal treatment, there seem to be many solutions that people might swear. Some homemade oil mixes may do the trick for you, but your doctor may tell you to go to Minoxidil, a drug for people with high blood pressure that helps with hair removal. It can strengthen your hair follicles and lead to better density. However, before you make it part of your hair care routine, you should also know about the side effects of minoxidil.

What is minoxidil?

This is a vasodilator, a drug that opens blood vessels developed to manage hypertension (hypertension). A 2007 study published in the Journal of Clinical Hypertension showed that blood pressure can be reduced in most people with hypertension. “It works by relieving blood vessels and improving blood circulation. However, its unintended side effects – hair growth has led to widespread use as a treatment for hair loss,” says an internal medicine expert. says Dr. Arvind Aggarwal.

It is used in two main ways.

• As an oral medication, it is usually prescribed for severe hypertension if other treatments fail.
• Its topical form treats androgenic alopecia, also known as alopecia in male and female patterns, applied directly to the scalp.

How does minoxidil promote hair growth?

Promote hair growth in the following ways:

• Vasodilator (increased blood flow): The drug broadens blood vessels and promotes blood circulation in the hair follicles. “This increased oxygen and nutrient supply helps to revive dormant hair follicles. Better blood flow ensures that the hair follicle receives the essential nutrients needed for hair growth,” says Cosmetics and says aesthetic surgeon Dr. Shweta Mishra.
• Long-term anagen phase (growth stage): Hair grows in cycles, and minoxidil grows the angen stage, ensuring thicker, longer chains of hair. “This prevents the hair from entering the shedding phase quickly, and ultimately leads to huge and vast amounts of hair over time,” says Dr. Mishra.
• Hair has decreased: You may experience a “fall-out” at first, but this is temporary. “Over time, the drug strengthens the follicles, reduces hair and increases density,” says Dr. Mishra.

Typically, a study published in Clinical and Experimental Dermatology in 2022 shows that at least four months of continuous therapy with topical minoxidil solution is required for hair growth. “For hair loss treatments, men usually use a 5% topical solution or foam applied twice a day. Women often use a 2% solution twice a day or 5% once a day You’ll be prescribed foam,” says Dr. Aggarwal.

What are the side effects of minoxidil?

Is minoxidil safe? Here are some of the side effects of minoxidil that you should be aware of:

1. Scalp irritation

One common side effect of minoxidil is mild irritation, redness, or itching after application to the scalp. According to a study published in Statpearls in 2023, it can lead to discomfort and burning sensations on the scalp. “This may be due to some solutions of alcohol or propylene glycol.”

2. First hair removal

“The first few weeks of topical use of the drug can lead to increased hair loss,” says Dr. Aggarwal. You may be wary at first, but usually it is a temporary stage before new growth begins. This happens as weak hair is pushed out and give way to new hair growth.

3. Dry scalp and peeling

The list of side effects of minoxidil also includes dry scalp and peeling. It may seem like you have dandruff. “When you notice these issues, instead of going for a shampoo loaded with chemicals, you can use a gentle, hydrating shampoo to help alleviate this,” suggests Dr. Mishra. .

4. Unwanted facial hair growth

Unwanted facial hair growth is one of the side effects of minoxidil. You may notice unnecessary hair growth in unintended areas such as the forehead and cheeks. “This happens when liquid drips while applying the scalp,” says Dr Agarwal.

5. Dizziness

Not only is it topical, but using this drug verbally can have negative effects. “There may be mild dizziness. This occurs when the drug is systematically absorbed, but this is more common verbally,” says Dr. Agagar.

6. Swelling of hands and feet

One rare side effect of minoxidil is swelling in the hands and feet. “Oral medication can lead to fluid retention and can lead to mild swelling in the hands and feet,” says Dr. Aggarwal. This does not occur during application of the medicine.

7. Allergic reactions

Severe itching and rashes are one of the rare side effects of minoxidil. “Some people can develop hives, severe itching, or rashes due to their sensitivity to the ingredients of medication,” says Dr. Mishra. If you notice a persistent rash or swelling, stop applying or consuming it and reach out to your doctor.

Minoxidil is one of the common medicines to deal with hair loss. It may help you, but before using it you will know about the side effects of minoxidil, including hair removal.