Minoxidil for Women

Does minoxidil work for women with female pattern hair loss? Studies show that minoxidil for women can result in improved hair density and strengthening across the scalp.

Many female patients report visible improvements in hair thickness and scalp coverage when following their minoxidil protocol consistently.

Read further for more insights on using minoxidil for women’s hair loss, including possible side effects.

Reviewed by Dr Epameinondas Bonaros

Overview of Minoxidil

Also known by its brand name Rogaine®, minoxidil was initially developed as an anti-hypertensive medication for treating high blood pressure.

The medicine has gained popularity as a treatment for androgenetic alopecia (hereditary hair loss) and other hair disorders. Topical minoxidil was introduced in the late 1980s to address male pattern baldness but was later approved for use by women as well.

According to the Rogaine website, it is the only clinically proven treatment for female pattern hair loss.

Below, we will explore minoxidil’s mechanism of action and its effectiveness in managing female pattern hair loss.

How Minoxidil Works

Minoxidil works at the root level of the hair follicle. The medication has been found to promote hair follicle activity, whilst strengthening follicles in the affected area. This helps stimulate the hair growth phase (also called the anagen phase) to stop hair thinning.

Mechanism of Action

The pharmacodynamics of Rogaine as a hair loss therapy remain partially explained. Current evidence suggests the medication’s primary action involves dilating blood vessels in the scalp. This increases blood flow and provides essential nutrients to hair follicles.

Besides extending the hair follicles’ growth phase, minoxidil also reactivates inactive follicles, reverses miniaturisation and stimulates vital roots through improved circulation.

Available Forms

Contemporary minoxidil formulations include topical solutions, foam preparations, and a minoxidil shampoo for women. Systemic administration of the medicine is available through oral formulations.

Instructions for Use

Here is an overview of how to take minoxidil tablets or apply minoxidil topical solution to your scalp.

Oral minoxidil should be taken once daily, or as prescribed by your doctor, with a glass of water as you would any drug.
For foam or liquid minoxidil, female patients should gently massage the solution into the affected scalp area. To avoid contamination, always wash your hands after the application. Do not wash your hair after administering the drug.

Efficacy of Minoxidil

If you are experiencing concentrated or diffuse hair loss, minoxidil could be an important part of your new hair growth plan.

This clinically proven treatment has helped many people regain their confidence through effective hair regrowth. Minoxidil’s ability to regrow hair is particularly evident in early to moderate cases of hair loss.

Multiple controlled studies indicate that consistent minoxidil application stimulates follicle movement and reduces the progression of androgenetic alopecia. Clinical measurements show improvements in hair density and shaft diameter.

Most patients notice positive changes around two to four months after starting the minoxidil solution. The full benefits usually develop over about a year of regular use. Patients following an oral minoxidil treatment plan can expect visible growth between six and 12 months.

Minoxidil treatment tends to work best for those in the earlier stages of hair thinning and hereditary hair loss. If you are just beginning to notice a receding hairline or other hair loss symptoms, you have a higher chance of seeing significant improvement.

Note: Following your doctor’s application or dosage instructions is key to achieving the best possible results.

Minoxidil for Hair Loss in Women

More than 10% of women experience female pattern hair loss by the age of 50, with the prevalence rising to over 30% by age 70. Doctors have prescribed minoxidil for hair growth in women for decades.

It’s important for potential users to understand that, while minoxidil effectively helps reduce hair loss, it does not cure the underlying condition.

Below are the clinical outcomes of using minoxidil for women’s hair loss, as well as the potential side effects of the medication.

Minoxidil for Women: Results

Clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of minoxidil for treating female pattern hair loss and thinning.

An extensive multicentre study of minoxidil formulations evaluated both 2% and 5% versions using rigorous double-blind methodology. Both minoxidil groups showed improvements in hair regrowth and scalp coverage.

However, the strength of the formulation played a crucial role. Women using the 5% solution achieved the most significant results, while the 2% solution also outperformed the placebo group.

In another clinical investigation of women using minoxidil, patients who applied 2% minoxidil solution experienced an average increase of 12.41 hairs per square centimetre compared to placebo recipients. Researchers observed that hair density improvements typically reached their maximum around the 12-month mark.

When compared to other non-surgical treatments, minoxidil has shown superior results. Clinical data suggest that minoxidil outperforms platelet-rich plasma therapy in promoting hair regrowth.

Minoxidil is more effective than low-level laser therapy (LLLT) alone, according to a study. However, combining minoxidil and LLLT as part of a treatment plan can produce enhanced results.

Note: Since pattern hair loss is progressive, maintaining minoxidil results requires ongoing treatment.
Discontinued minoxidil use will eventually lead to renewed hair thinning.

Minoxidil Side Effects for Women

Is minoxidil safe for women? In most cases, the answer is yes. However, it may cause some side effects. Common examples include the following.

Allergic reactions
Chest pains
Potential foetal deformities during pregnancy
Potentially harmful to breastfeeding babies
Excessive hair growth in areas besides the scalp, also called hypertrichosis

Topical Minoxidil Side Effects

Skin/scalp irritation or flaking
Contact dermatitis
Temporary hair shedding
Hair colour changes
Headaches

Oral Minoxidil Side Effects

Inflammation or swelling
An increased heart rate
Hypotension (low blood pressure)

Topical Vs Oral Minoxidil for Women's Hair Loss

Here is what you need to know about topical and oral versions of minoxidil for female androgenetic alopecia.

Oral Minoxidil for Women

Oral minoxidil is prescribed off-label to treat female hereditary hair loss and regrow hair. This medication is favoured for its effectiveness, particularly in the commonly prescribed dosages for women, which range from 1.25 to 2.5 mg.

In a Brazilian study of oral and topical minoxidil for women, a prescription of 1mg of the oral formulation was found to be more effective. Patients in the oral group experienced a 12% increase in hair density after 24 weeks, compared to 7.2% in the topical group.

The difference in effectiveness may stem from the inconsistent absorption of topical minoxidil, which requires conversion at the follicle level to become active. Some individuals lack the necessary enzyme to convert minoxidil to its active form, minoxidil sulfate, an issue that does not affect oral minoxidil.

Oral minoxidil is generally easier to take consistently than topical minoxidil, resulting in increased patient compliance.

Topical Minoxidil for Women

The minoxidil foam for women is the only clinically proven foam that promotes hair regrowth in women.

A 2024 randomised controlled trial compared the therapeutic effects of topical minoxidil and 1 mg oral minoxidil.

Photographic assessments revealed an improvement in hair density in both groups, helping participants grow noticeably thicker hair. While the topical application group demonstrated slightly higher overall results, the difference in effectiveness between the two treatments was not statistically significant.

The active ingredient in the foam and the liquid solution is minoxidil 5%, with inactive ingredients including cetyl alcohol, ethanol anhydrous, citric acid, glycerol, lactic acid, purified water and stearyl alcohol.

Take the first step towards stopping your hair thinning with minoxidil. Get in touch with us via info@drbonaros.com for expert advice.

Dr Bonaros: Advanced Women's Hair Loss Solutions

At the Dr Bonaros hair clinic, we’re here to listen to your hair loss concerns and guide you through your hair restoration journey with compassion and understanding.

Dr Bonaros brings the highest level of accredited expertise, holding membership in the British Association of Hair Restoration Surgery (BAHRS). He is also Scotland’s sole member of the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS).

Whether you’re experiencing alopecia or gradual thinning hair, our caring team creates a comfortable, judgment-free environment where you can explore your treatment options. Our proven expertise and guidance can help you regain your looks and confidence.

Dr Bonaros can prescribe minoxidil for women experiencing hair loss and thinning. Schedule your consultation now to learn if minoxidil is the right solution for you.

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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!