Minoxidil for Hair Loss

Minoxidil has been scientifically proven to slow down and lessen the effects of hair loss. This medication works by strengthening follicles and promoting both hair regrowth and new hair growth.

Dr Bonaros specialises in various treatments and can offer private prescriptions for oral minoxidil for hair loss following a consultation.

Are you ready to restore your hair and boost your confidence? Contact Dr Bonaros to learn more about the different minoxidil hair treatment options and find the solution that suits you best.

Overview of Minoxidil

Researchers initially developed minoxidil in the 1970s as an antihypertensive agent to treat high blood pressure. However, it attracted interest as a potential treatment to stimulate follicles when patients receiving this medication developed generalised hypertrichosis (excessive hair growth on the body) as a side effect.

This observation led to the creation of a topical formulation with minoxidil as the active ingredient. It has since become the first-line treatment of male and female pattern hair loss (also called androgenetic alopecia or hereditary hair loss).

The medication is sold under the common brand name Rogaine as a hair loss treatment.

How Minoxidil Works to Promote Hair Growth

Minoxidil’s exact mechanism of action is unknown. However, trials have shown that minoxidil can slow hair loss and stimulate hair growth in cases of both male and female pattern baldness in several ways:

Minoxidil prolongs the anagen phase of the hair growth cycle
Reverses follicle miniaturisation
Enhances blood flow around the hair follicles by dilating the blood vessels
Stimulates follicle movement to the growth phase of the hair growth cycle

According to other hypotheses, minoxidil may also have proliferative, anti-androgenic (the blocking of androgen hormones), and anti-inflammatory effects.

Efficacy of Minoxidil to Stimulate Hair Growth

Several meta-analysis studies have confirmed the high quality of evidence for using minoxidil to treat androgenetic alopecia (AGA) in both men and women. Despite minoxidil’s effectiveness in hair regrowth, it doesn’t work for everyone and every type of hair loss.

In one study, dermatologists evaluated the effectiveness of minoxidil 5% topical solution in 984 men with hereditary hair loss. After one year, they reported that balding areas on the scalp had become smaller in 62% of the patients, unchanged in 35.1%, and more significant in 2.9%.

Regarding minoxidil’s effectiveness in stimulating new hair growth, the investigators found it:

very effective in 15.9% of patients
effective in 47.8%
moderately effective in 20.6%
ineffective in 15.7%

This indicates an overall efficacy rate of 84.3% for the minoxidil topical solution.

However, it’s key to note that patients should be treated for at least six months before being assessed by a hair restoration physician.

Additionally, minoxidil hair growth treatment should be prolonged indefinitely to maintain the efficacy of positive results. Minoxidil discontinuation will cause acute hair shedding after three to four months.

Our patient achieved great results after using minoxidil consistently for 9 months.

Oral Minoxidil for Hair Restoration in Men & Women

Oral minoxidil contains the active ingredient minoxidil in tablet form.
This hair loss medicine is not officially approved to treat male pattern baldness, so its use is off-label.

However, the results of small studies have shown that minoxidil pills for hair loss are not inferior to topical minoxidil. In fact, when prescribed appropriately, oral minoxidil tends to be more effective than its topical counterpart.

Oral minoxidil can be an alternative treatment in healthy men and women who cannot tolerate or comply with the topical solution. Minoxidil for men is also considered for those concerned about or have already experienced sexual side effects from finasteride medication for hair loss.

Oral Minoxidil Dosage & Consumption

When writing an oral minoxidil prescription, a medical professional will specify the exact dosage their patient should consume.

For men, the recommended dosage ranges from 1.25 to 5mg.
The minoxidil dose for hair loss in women is lower and ranges from 0,25 to 2.5 mg daily.

Minoxidil tablets for hair loss are always prescribed as a low-dose medication. [hide behind read more] Oral minoxidil hair regrowth prescriptions are far below the 10 to 40mg average daily dosage (with a maximum of 100mg per day) used for hypertension. This means they can be prescribed for long-term usage — an essential part of maintaining the hair growth effects of minoxidil.

Oral Minoxidil Side Effects

As with its topical counterpart, common side effects of oral minoxidil are mild hair loss through shedding (usually within the first six weeks of treatment) and hypertrichosis.

Higher doses of minoxidil increase the likelihood of hypertrichosis occurring. However, this side effect will dissipate within one to three months after a patient stops using the oral treatment.

Select patients also experience the following side effects from the medication:

Lower limb oedema — fluid retention that causes weight gain or lower leg, feet and ankle swelling.
Postural hypotension — low blood pressure that is caused by the transition from sitting or lying down to standing.
Tachycardia — a fast-paced heartbeat that exceeds 100 beats per minute.

Both postural hypertension and tachycardia can cause dizziness and lightheadedness. Tachycardia can also result in chest pain or difficulty breathing due to shortness of breath.

If patients experience any of the above-mentioned side effects, they should seek medical help as soon as possible.

Minoxidil is the mainstay treatment for hereditary hair loss.
Contact our clinic at 0141 340 9098 or info@drbonaros.com to learn more about minoxidil and its treatment success stories.

Topical Minoxidil for Hair Follicle Stimulation & Growth

Topical minoxidil is one of the primary ways to treat hair loss. This FDA-approved and UK-licensed medication is available in two easy-to-use forms: a solution and a foam. Users simply apply the minoxidil topical solution to areas of the scalp with thinning hair or hair loss.

A sulfotransferase enzyme found in hair follicles then works to activate and effectively absorb the minoxidil. While this enzyme is always found in the liver, its presence in hair follicles differs from person to person.

As such, minoxidil topical solution results differ between patients and if there is little to no efficacy, a doctor may prescribe an oral minoxidil treatment instead.

Topical Minoxidil Dosage & Application

Dosages for topical minoxidil differ according to the patient’s sex and whether the minoxidil is a solution or foam.

In men, the recommended dose of minoxidil solution for hair growth is 1ml twice daily of the 5% solution. The dosage for minoxidil 5% foam is half a capful twice daily.
For women, the recommended dosage is 1ml of 2% minoxidil solution twice daily or half a capful of the 5% foam formulation once a day.

Topical Minoxidil Side Effects

One of the more common side effects some patients notice is a transitory increase in hair shedding at the beginning of their Minoxidil treatment plan. However, this usually only lasts for a few weeks and should not cause concern.

Minoxidil solution containing propylene glycol can also cause skin irritation or an allergic reaction. Patients may switch to the minoxidil topical foam formulation if the affected area becomes irritated. Unlike the solution, this foam does not contain propylene glycol.

Other possible side effects of minoxidil include:

Scalp dryness and dandruff can occur as the alcohol-based vehicle in the solution evaporates, drawing moisture from the scalp
Contact dermatitis and pruritus — a non-contagious but itchy and uncomfortable rash caused by contact with an allergen or irritant.
Erythema — redness of the skin resulting from increased dilation of the capillaries.
Facial hypertrichosis — unwanted hair growth on the face, which usually resolves one to three months after drug discontinuation.

Minoxidil for Hair Growth — Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use both topical and oral minoxidil?

No, you should not use topical and oral minoxidil at the same time. Both formulations of this hair loss medication have various side effects. Applying or consuming more than the recommended amount can increase the severity of or result in unwanted side effects.

However, non-simultaneous usage is possible. If your body does not respond well to topical minoxidil solution or foam, your doctor may write you a prescription for oral minoxidil instead.

Before and After Results after using Minoxidil

Who cannot use minoxidil?

Both forms of minoxidil have various potential side effects and, depending on the patient, can be unsuitable for use.

Minoxidil can be especially unsafe for patients with:

A history of heart problems, such as heart disease or failure
Existing hepatic (related to the kidneys) or renal (relating to the liver) conditions
Very low blood pressure
Pheochromocytoma (an adrenal gland tumour)

It is essential to consult with a doctor to determine a treatment plan that takes all factors into consideration. Ensure you disclose all of your health conditions, allergies, and the current medications you are taking during your initial medical consultation.

What alternative medications are there to minoxidil?

Besides minoxidil, there are two other drugs predominantly used to treat male pattern baldness and hair loss — finasteride and dutasteride.

Originally developed to combat benign prostatic hyperplasia (an enlarged prostate), these medicines function by preventing the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) — a male hormone that shrinks hair follicles and results in the prevention of hair growth.

Can minoxidil topical be used on other parts of the body?

No, unless directed by your physician. Even though it can sometimes cause hypertrichosis on the body or face, minoxidil topical solution for hair loss should only be used on the scalp in the exact amount prescribed by your doctor.

Using a higher concentration of minoxidil foam or cream, using it too often, or using it on other parts of the body increases the chances of it being absorbed through the skin and affecting your heart and blood vessels with unwanted effects.

Read more about the uses of minoxidil for beard growth and body hair growth.

How long does minoxidil take to work?

For some, minoxidil hair regrowth results have appeared in as little as eight weeks following a regular dosing schedule.

However, others might have to wait a few months — up to 16 weeks — before they start seeing results.

What should I do if I accidentally miss a dose of minoxidil?

In the case of a missed dose of minoxidil, there are two ways to proceed.

If it is not very long after the original time you were supposed to have your minoxidil, you can still take it.
However, if it is close to the scheduled time for your next dose, skip the previous one entirely. It is essential that you do not double your next dose to compensate for a missed dose, as doing so could lead to several unwanted side effects.

Considering crown and hairline hair restoration using minoxidil, and want to speak to a professional?
Book an appointment at our clinic to find out how we can help.

Dr Bonaros: Trusted UK Hair Loss & Restoration Specialist

If you are looking into hair restoration solutions, get in touch with Dr Bonaros’ hair transplant clinic in Glasgow. Our state-of-the-art clinic is led by Dr Bonaros, a highly experienced and trained hair transplant surgeon and hair loss specialist in Scotland.

As a full member of the British Association of Hair Restoration Surgery (BAHRS) and Scotland’s only full member of the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS), Dr Bonaros is one of the UK’s most qualified hair restoration experts.

We aim to treat hair loss in a safe, effective, and personalised manner, with the overall goal of helping patients regain their confidence through long-term solutions. Using a patient-centred approach, Dr Bonaros can assess your case, whether you’re considering Rogaine for a receding hairline or male pattern hair loss. He will perform a reliable diagnosis and provide you with a realistic and comprehensive treatment plan tailored to you.

Dr Bonaros will also monitor the effectiveness of the medical therapy clinically in follow-up consultations. If needed, he can suggest medical and surgical options to augment the benefits of minoxidil or other medications.

Dr Bonaros provides private prescriptions for oral minoxidil for hair loss.
Book an appointment today — either at our clinic in Glasgow or through a consultation over Zoom.

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Dr Bonaros Glasgow Hair Transplant Clinic Reviews

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Jackie Lambert

Dr Bonaros is an incredibly talent doctor in his field and has provided me with a wonderful hair transplant result. Finding information and pictures for female hair transplants was really hard. Hair is such a defining part of us all that is not realised until you start to lose your hair.
I suffered female pattern balding and hair thinning due to menopause and became very self conscious. I was worried about the treatment (as many on line photos looked so horrific), pain, recovery time, would it work, results etc. I also didn't want to lose more hair over the coming years, but also didn't want to have my head shaved at the back for the transplant.
Dr Bonaros answered all my questions and was such a knowledgeable and calming person that I knew he was the doctor for me and I was in safe hands.
On the day of the transplant, he and his team were amazing and so very kind and took great care of me. The aftercare and regular check ups were great.
I have just celebrated by first hair transplant birthday and the result are fantastic. I have consented for Dr Bonaros to share all of my journey photos with any other women out there contemplating this treatment. I cannot recommend highly enough. My hair is thicker and fuller and I even have a full fringe now.

Peter Walker

Can't thank the Dr and the team enough for such great work on my hair. It's been a year and I'm delighted with the results of my 4000 graft procedure.

The team were kind, professional and patient during the consultation stage. They answered all my questions and made me feel at ease.

During the operation every step was explained and the experience was made as comfortable as possible over the two days of my 4000 graft procedure. It's a morning of extractions from the donor area and an afternoon of inserting them into the recipient area with lunch provided. I brought some in-ear headphones for a podcast to pass the time and it does fly by. Dr Bonaros was present at all times performing the extractions and graft placement. They worked non-stop during this time.

The post operation care package you get home and the follow up emails and appointments to ask questions really made the whole post care process easy at what is a sensitive time.

Fully recovered and seeing the results, it's gave me a lot of confidence and looking back at old photographs I really do not regret having it done, I wish I did it sooner.

Really appreciate what the clinic has done for me. Thank you Dr Bonaros and Team!

graham jardine

Can’t thank dr Bonaros and the team enough,

I found them to be extremely professional, reassuring and kind.

I work an operating theatre environment so I guess I was a bit of a tough customer however I was very impressed with my hair transplant from first consultation to the operation itself.

I’m now 4 months out and have loads of hair growth, my confidence has been renewed massively and my only regret is not having the treatment sooner!

Thanks again

Kind regards

Graham

Response from the owner:Dear Graham, Thank you for your wonderful review of Dr Bonaros hair transplant clinic in Glasgow. We're delighted to hear that you found our team professional, reassuring, and kind throughout your experience. It means a lot coming from someone with your background in an operating theatre environment. We're thrilled that you're already seeing significant hair growth and that your confidence has been renewed. It's always rewarding to know our efforts have had such a positive impact. We appreciate your kind words and for entrusting us with your care. Kind regards, Dr Bonaros' Team

Cayden

I had a 2000 graft hair transplant with Dr Bonaros just over a year ago. It was painless, very easy on my part (I just had to lie in different positions and amuse myself) and Dr Bonaros and his team were super informative and happily answered all of my questions both during our initial consult and the procedure itself.

I was seen at 8:50am and we finished up I believe around 4pm, with an hour lunch break (the surgery provided a hot lunch, and were very accommodating with my dietary needs)

Aftercare was very well explained and I was given all the necessary equipment and care instructions for my recovery.

I had no complications during or after the transplant, and healing with a lot easier than I expected. Patience and time are the main factors for the months after your transplant.

I am over the moon with my results, I am so much more confident and my self-esteem has come on in leaps and bounds.

Thank you so much for giving me a new lease on life!

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience at our hair transplant clinic in Glasgow. We're thrilled to hear that you had a painless and smooth procedure with Dr. Bonaros and his team. It's wonderful to know that you felt well-informed and cared for throughout your journey with us. We're delighted that you're happy with your results and that they have positively impacted your confidence and self-esteem. Thank you for choosing our clinic, and for your kind words. We're here for you if you need any further assistance. Warm regards, Dr Bonaros' Team

Brucr Petrie

Just reached the 1 year point of my transplant. I have to say i'm more than delighted with the results.Had a 2 day proceedure which went very smoothly.i was made to feel relaxed and reassured from start to finish.Dr benaros and Kat are so down to earth and totally proffesional. I am so happy to have chosen them and definitely made the right decision.i wouldnt hesitate to reccomend them .if your contemplating taking the plunge,go for it!you wont regret it.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for sharing your experience! We're delighted to hear that you are more than satisfied with the results of your hair transplant at our Glasgow hair transplant clinic. At Dr Bonaros' Clinic, we aim to foster a welcoming and professional environment for all our patients, and your kind words genuinely affirm our dedication. We’re thrilled that you chose us for your hair restoration journey and that you feel you made the right decision. Thank you for your recommendation, and for those contemplating addressing their hair loss, we are here to help you take that step with confidence. Best regards, The Team at Dr. Bonaros' Clinic

Theodora Kotorou

I can’t recommend Dr Bonaros enough! After struggling with hair loss for years, I finally found a doctor who provided me with an efficient and cost-effective solution that truly worked. From the first consultation, he took the time to understand my concerns, explain all my options, and tailor a treatment plan that suited my needs.

The results have been incredible, and I feel more confident with my current hair situation. He is professional, welcoming, and always available for any follow-up questions. If you’re looking for a trustworthy and knowledgeable hair loss specialist, look no further than Dr Bonaros.

Would highly recommend to anyone dealing with hair loss. Thank you!

Response from the owner:Thank you very much for your lovely review! We’re delighted to hear about your positive experience at our Glasgow hair transplant and hair treatments clinic. Our aim is to provide efficient and affordable solutions for hair loss, and we’re pleased to know you’ve found a treatment plan that suits you. Your increased confidence is exactly why we do what we do. Dr. Bonaros and the entire team are dedicated to understanding each patient’s unique needs and making them feel welcome and supported throughout their hair restoration journey. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Thank you again for your kind words and recommendation. We're here to help anyone dealing with hair loss, and we appreciate your trust in us! Best wishes, The Team at Dr Bonaros' Clinic

carlo celindano

I had a hair transplant over 4 years ago with him and I'm still happy today he truly is amazing 🥳 if you are thinking of getting one please use him 🙏 he does the whole procedure from start to finish. If you do your research it has amazing reviews and the great profile. 3 of my friends have used him as well and they're very happy with the results 😁 please don't choose the cheapest price to get the procedure 🤦 just pay once and get it done properly. You really do get what you pay for with hair transplants. Thank you again for a life changing experience 😁

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind review! We're thrilled to hear that you're still happy with your results and that your experience was life-changing. It's fantastic to know that you and your friends have had positive experiences with Dr Bonaros. At Dr Bonaros hair transplant clinic in Glasgow, we pride ourselves on providing comprehensive care from start to finish, ensuring that each procedure meets the highest standards of quality and patient satisfaction. If you ever have any questions or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out. Thank you once again for your kind words and support.

Connor T

From the very beginning, the entire experience was fantastic. The staff were incredibly knowledgeable and explained every step of the process in great detail

The procedure was surprisingly comfortable, with minimal discomfort during and after the surgery. The recovery went well, and I was provided with clear instructions and a goody bag to take away to aid my recovery.

I highly recommend that everyone consult with Dr. Bonaro and his staff before making a final decision. You won't regret it!

Response from the owner:Thank you for taking the time to leave such a positive review! We’re delighted to hear about your good experience at our hair transplant clinic in Glasgow. It’s great that you found the procedure comfortable and our staff informative. Your recommendation is greatly appreciated. If you need further assistance, we’re here to help!

susan taylor

Visited Dr Bonaros regarding hair thinning. Found him to be very professional and had my best interests at heart. No hard sell or trying to sell unneeded products. If anyone needs advice regarding hair loss or hair thinning I cannot recommend this doctor enough.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear that Dr. Bonaros provided professional care with your best interests in mind. At our hair transplant clinic in Glasgow, we pride ourselves on offering honest advice without any pressure. Your recommendation is greatly appreciated!

Nathan Ryde

Dr Bonaros is a true professional putting the customers needs first. His patient centred approach and knowledge gives you the best results possible from the procedure with a keen attention to prevention and maintenance as hair loss is ongoing. I travelled up to his clinic for my 12 month review to personally thank him and his partner at the clinic. Both wonderful people who truly want the best for you. The results I have had are outstanding and exceeded my expectations. If you are looking for a hair transplant with fine precision and a doctor who is certified with a great reputation in this field I urge you to look no further as he delivers spectacular results !

Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing your experience and for your kind words. We're thrilled to know that you are delighted with the results and had a positive experience at our Glasgow hair transplant clinic. Our team, including Dr. Bonaros, is committed to providing patient-centered care with a focus on prevention and maintenance. We are proud to have exceeded your expectations and appreciate your trust in us. Thank you for recommending our clinic!