Overview
What is it?
Topical minoxidil 5% is a medication used to treat hair loss, specifically androgenetic alopecia (AGA), which is the most common form of hair loss in both men and women. It is available as a solution or foam and is applied directly to the scalp. Minoxidil was originally developed as an oral medication for high blood pressure but was later discovered to have hair growth-promoting effects when applied topically .
How does it work?
Topical minoxidil 5% works by prolonging the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle and promoting the transition from the telogen (resting) phase to the anagen phase. It also activates molecular signaling pathways, such as beta-catenin and prostaglandin E2 receptors, which are involved in hair growth. Additionally, minoxidil is a vasodilator, meaning it widens blood vessels, allowing more oxygen, blood, and nutrients to reach the hair follicles, which can stimulate hair growth .
What are the benefits?
Topical minoxidil 5% has been shown to increase hair thickness, promote hair growth, and slow down hair loss. It is particularly effective for individuals with androgenetic alopecia. Studies have demonstrated that it can significantly improve hair growth rates and increase the photographic area covered by hair shafts. For example, one study found that the combination of topical minoxidil 5% and oral biotin increased hair growth rates from 2.35 mm per week to 2.64 mm per week .
Effectiveness
What does the research say?
Research indicates that topical minoxidil 5% is effective in treating hair loss, particularly in individuals with androgenetic alopecia. In clinical studies, it has been shown to increase hair growth rates and improve hair density. For instance, a study involving 10 participants found that the combination of topical minoxidil 5% and oral biotin significantly increased hair growth rates and the area covered by hair shafts (p < 0.01). The average hair growth rate increased from 2.35 mm per week to 2.64 mm per week after treatment .
Side Effects
Scalp irritation
Scalp irritation is a common side effect, which may cause discomfort or a burning sensation on the scalp .
Itching
Itching can occur, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin or those who are allergic to propylene glycol, a common ingredient in minoxidil solutions .
Dandruff
Dandruff may develop as a result of the drying effect of the alcohol-based solution used in some minoxidil formulations .
Erythema (redness of the skin)
Erythema, or redness of the skin, can occur due to irritation or an allergic reaction to the medication .
Increased hair shedding initially
Increased hair shedding may occur initially as minoxidil synchronizes the hair cycle, causing telogen hairs to fall out before new anagen hairs grow in .
Evidence
Clinical Studies & Trials
[1] Treatment options for androgenetic alopecia: Efficacy, side effects, compliance, financial considerations, and ethics.
This review discusses various treatment options for androgenetic alopecia, including PRP, minoxidil, and finasteride. It highlights the efficacy and side effects of these treatments.
View study[2] Minoxidil: a comprehensive review.
This review provides an overview of minoxidil, including its FDA approval for androgenetic alopecia and its various formulations.
View study[3] Male Androgenetic Alopecia
This paper discusses the pathophysiology of male androgenetic alopecia and the role of minoxidil and finasteride in its treatment.
View study[4] Microneedling for Hair Loss.
This review explores microneedling as a treatment for androgenetic alopecia, including its potential benefits when combined with other therapies like minoxidil.
View study[5] Efficacy of 5% topical minoxidil versus 5 mg oral biotin versus topical minoxidil and oral biotin on hair growth in men: randomized, crossover, clinical trial.
This clinical trial compares the efficacy of topical minoxidil 5%, oral biotin, and their combination in promoting hair growth in men with androgenetic alopecia.
View study[6] Microneedling and Its Use in Hair Loss Disorders: A Systematic Review.
This systematic review examines the use of microneedling and PRP in treating hair loss disorders, including their potential benefits when combined with minoxidil.
View study[7] Androgenetic alopecia.
This review discusses the causes and treatments of androgenetic alopecia, including the use of topical minoxidil and antiandrogen agents.
View study[8] Minoxidil in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia.
This review summarizes the findings of pivotal studies on minoxidil's efficacy in treating androgenetic alopecia and recent developments in its use.
View study[9] Topical Minoxidil Exposures and Toxicoses in Dogs and Cats: 211 Cases (2001-2019).
This study examines the effects of accidental minoxidil exposure in pets, highlighting the risks associated with its use.
View study[10] Minoxidil use in dermatology, side effects and recent patents.
This review discusses the mechanism of action, side effects, and recent patents related to minoxidil use in dermatology.
View study[11] Pediatric androgenetic alopecia: A review.
This review explores the under-recognized issue of androgenetic alopecia in children and adolescents, including potential treatments.
View study[12] What's New in Therapy for Male Androgenetic Alopecia?
This review discusses emerging treatments for male androgenetic alopecia, including the use of minoxidil and other therapies.
View study[13] Management of androgenic alopecia: a systematic review of the literature.
This systematic review evaluates the efficacy of various treatments for androgenic alopecia, including minoxidil, finasteride, and PRP.
View study