In addition to slowing and stabilizing androgenic alopecia or common baldness, minoxidil promotes and stimulates hair growth. People believe it increases hair follicles, but it does not slow fall. After 3 or 4 months, the results of the treatment mature hairline become noticeable. Detailed explanations are forthcoming to learn more about the value of minoxidil.
How does Minoxidil Work?
As an introduction, let’s remind you that it is an old drug from the 50s used to treat ulcers of the duodenum. Following its studies in patients, it was discovered that it was a powerful vasodilator, causing hair growth and strengthening the hair. As a consequence, its effects came about unknowingly and on rebound.
Three decades later, in the 1980s, it primarily was used to prevent hair loss. Since it is such an effective medicine, US Drug Administration (FDA, for its acronym in English) has recognized it as the only remedy that can treat both men and women with genetically induced alopecia (alopecia of the hair) in the same way.
When it comes to Hair Loss, does Minoxidil Work?
The answer is yes. Though it is a drug that has been around for 70 years, it is still not completely understood how it works. Many people have been shown that the hair growth phase lengthens and the resting phase shortens, which means it stops the fall of hair. This medicine has a very high rate of success, with 66 percent of men who use it reporting positive results. A similar percentage of women also participate in the program.
In any case, as we mentioned before, the main problem with minoxidil is that it must be applied every day if it is to be effective. Usually, you have to wait about four months if it works in your specific case.
What is the Mechanism of Action of Minoxidil?
Vasodilators work by opening blood vessels and belong to the class of medications that have this effect. This particular medication consists of chemicals that prevent your artery and vein walls from contracting and closing. In this way, your blood flows more easily through your vessels, which includes the ones that reach your hair follicles.
In what way should Minoxidil be Used?
Topical minoxidil, i.e., directly applied to the scalp, via spray or syringe, is usually the most common form of application. According to the degree of alopecia, this should be applied once or twice a day. It’s important to understand that once the application starts, it must be backed up permanently. Continuing to use it will result in hair loss reoccurring. A quick online search will show you that it can be purchased for about 30 euros and lasts approximately three months. A lifetime of expenses is not excessively expensive, but it is unavoidable because of its longevity.
A pill format was tested for oral consumption in 2019. The abundant growth of body hair, on the other hand, has made it more appropriate to use topically.
Alopecia of all Varieties can be Treated with it?
There is no such thing. Only genetic factors are responsible for androgenic or androgenetic alopecia. This method is the most common and is explained only by the presence of an enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase and a hormone called dihydrotestosterone, both of which cause hair loss. Consequently, the follicular unit becomes weaker and the hair starts to grow less and less until it never grows again. Neither it nor scar tissue will be affected by other pathologies.
Are there any Side Effects Associated with Minoxidil?
As we will explain below, minoxidil has a number of side effects:
- The scalp is itchy, dry, and flaky.
- It is possible for hair to appear on the face even if it was not applied directly to it.
- Symptoms such as dizziness and headaches
- Make the hair dirty as soon as possible. The scalp is contacted directly through direct application.
If you stop taking the drug, all of these side effects will disappear.