How to make the best of topical minoxidil for hair growth

Dr Marc-André Doré

Monday, February 3, 2025

Minoxidil (or Rogaine (TM)) is a widely used topical treatment for hair loss in both men and women. When applied correctly, it can help stimulate hair growth and slow down hair thinning. In this guide, we’ll cover how to apply minoxidil properly, where to apply it, etc.

What is minoxidil and how does it work?

Minoxidil is an FDA-approved topical medication originally designed to treat high blood pressure but later discovered to have a beneficial effect on hair growth. It works by increasing blood flow to the hair follicles, prolonging the growth phase of the hair cycle, and revitalizing weakened hair follicles, leading to thicker and healthier hair over time.

Application tips

The treatment is primarily applied to the scalp in areas where hair thinning or loss is occurring.

  1. For men:

    The most common areas for application are the crown (vertex) and hairline.

  2. For women:

    They typically experience diffuse thinning, so it’s best to apply to the mid-scalp, crown and other thinning areas.

It is important to note that minoxidil does not create new follicles. Its effectiveness is therefore limited to areas where follicles still exist, even if they produce fine or thinning hair. On a completely bald area, where the follicles are inactive or absent, the treatment will have no effect.

  • 5% foam or liquid for men: Apply twice daily, morning and night.

  • 2% or 5% for women: Women often start with 2% minoxidil applied twice daily, but some may use 5% once per day if tolerated.

  • Allow the treatment to dry completely before applying other hair products.

Step-by-step application process

  1. Start with a clean, dry scalp:

    Wash your hands and make sure your scalp is clean and dry before application.

  2. Measure the right amount:

    Use the dropper (1mL) for liquid or half a capful for foam.

  3. Apply directly to the scalp:

    Part your hair to expose thinning areas and apply the solution evenly.

  4. Apply minoxidil after microneedling:

    To the areas to be treated.

  5. Use once or twice a week:

    Be gentle, overuse can lead to scalp irritation!

Make the best of topical minoxidil with a dermaroller?

A dermaroller is a microneedling tool that exfoliates the scalp and can enhance the absorption of minoxidil and stimulate collagen production, promoting hair growth.

  1. Choose the right dermaroller:

    A 0.5mm to 1.5mm needle length is recommended.

  2. Use on a clean scalp:

    Make sure your scalp is free of hair products and dry.

  3. Roll gently over thinning areas:

    Roll in different directions (vertical, horizontal, diagonal) with light pressure.

  4. Disinfect the dermaroller after each use:

    Clean it with rubbing alcohol to prevent infection.

  5. Apply minoxidil after microneedling:

    On areas to be treated.

  6. Use once or twice a week:

    Be gentle, overuse can lead to scalp irritation!

Key takeaways

  • Apply the solution directly to thinning areas twice daily for men and once or twice daily for women.

  • Allow it to dry completely before adding other hair products.

  • Dermarolling can boost effectiveness of the treatment.

  • Be consistent! Results typically appear after 3-6 months of use.

By following these steps, you can maximize the effectiveness of minoxidil and promote healthier, fuller hair growth over time. Topical minoxidil is often the first line of treatment readily available for hair loss. If your condition progresses or worsen, other hair loss treatments are available, including oral and injectable treatments. Not sure where to start? Consult with our dermatologists to get your personalized treatment plan.

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