Have you just started on a minoxidil hair regimen and panicking because your hair is actually falling off more extensively now than before? Well, then you’ve come to the right place and let us assure you that it is totally normal to lose some hair in the first few weeks of using minoxidil. In fact, there are plenty of clinical trials and medical evidence that support this too. But, we understand, you may be wondering how it actually works when you’re losing more hair than before? We’ve covered all the details below so you can understand how common it is to shed hair while using minoxidil, what causes it, and whether you should be concerned.
Firstly, What is Minoxidil and How Does It Work?
Surprise but minoxidil is a drug originally developed to treat hypertension. Over time, researchers found out that people who had alopecia (the medical term for balding) experienced hair regrowth after minoxidil. And boom that’s how minoxidil entered the hair care world and rest is history. Today, it is the world’s most popular over-the-counter treatment for alopecia. And to answer how minoxidil works, is simple. It promotes hair growth by increasing blood circulation to your scalp.
Get your minoxidil serum for hair growth here.
So, What Causes Minoxidil Shedding?
The minoxidil shedding happens because minoxidil speeds up the resting phase of your hair (telogen) which makes the existing hair fall out more quickly than it normally would. Why does this happen? Because, only when you lose the old hair, you can make way for new hair. So, basically it is a process of losing all the ‘damaged’ hair and making room for ‘healthier’ hair. All the hair you are shedding from using minoxidil are the ‘damaged’ ones. But that said, the shedding won’t be long because minoxidil also extends the growth phase of your hair. That means new hair growth should soon replace the hair that you’ve lost.
Plus, not everyone will experience shedding as a side effect of minoxidil, while some may experience it severely. Though, there isn’t much you can do to prevent minoxidil-related shedding but the best thing you can do is not to panic.If you cannot deal with the shedding then opt for lower concentration because higher the concentration of minoxidil, the more severe the side effect is likely to be, So, if you started with 5% concentration of minoxidil than tone down to 2% concentration.
How Long Does Minoxidil Shedding Last?
The length of the shedding varies from person to person but in general it won’t last long.To be more specific, research shows that it generally starts 2-8 weeks after beginning the treatment with minoxidil. After that, the shedding should subside but don’t stop using minoxidil. Continue applying minoxidil as per instruction everyday consistently and be patient, good things take time remember that. Most men start to see results in 4-6 months, while for some men you may need a longer time like maybe a year to see the real impact of the treatment.
However, if the hair shedding prolongs after 4 months then you should consult a doctor. It might be an indication that the shedding is not related to minoxidil or it could also be possible that minoxidil isn’t the right product for you. That is why, we recommend you speak with your doctor about alternative treatments if the shedding goes on after 4 months.
What Are The Other Side Effects of Minoxidil?
Despite being generally safe to use, minoxidil does carry certain side effects. However, the side effects are generally mild. The common side effects of minoxidil are burning or stinging of the scalp. If you have sensitive skin then the area of application may become red too. Rare but more serious side effects include dizziness, fast/irregular heartbeat, chest pain, swelling of hands/feet or difficulty breathing especially when lying down. If you experience any one or more of the side effects, get medical help right away.
Now, How Effective is Minoxidil?
One thing you should bear in mind before using minoxidil is that it is not one of those fast-acting treatments. Instead, as we mentioned earlier, you may shed hair more than normal during the first few weeks of treatment and then your hair slowly moves in the growth cycle to begin a new anagen phase. Most research shows that it takes a few months before you’ll notice any improvements in your hair after you start using minoxidil. Generally speaking, you should be able to see expected improvement from minoxidil after about 4-6 months into the treatment with more significant results after a full year of treatment. The key is to be consistent and patient!
So, How to Make the Best Out of Minoxidil Treatment?
Simply, apply minoxidil properly and use it everyday consistently! Minoxidil is a super easy medication to use. To speed up the process, use finasteride at the same time. Finasteride is a prescription hair loss medication that works by stopping your body from producing DHT, the hormone that causes male pattern baldness to develop. By combining both minoxidil and finasteride, you have a better chance of treating your hair loss.
Check out the hair loss prescription kit for men that comes with Finasteride and Minoxidil, but you could also add on Shampoo fortified with 5% Saw Palmetto, Caffeine and Argan to stimulate hair growth.
Our advice is don’t wait and start your treatment as early as possible. All health conditions have a higher improvement rate when you diagnose and start on the treatment early and likewise hair loss can be treated if you get on the regime and stay true to it.
Lastly, What Are The Precautions to Take Before Using Minoxidil?
Before starting on minoxidil or any other treatments, it is best to consult a doctor to see whether the treatment is suitable for you. Though, it’s very rare to have allergy reactions to minoxidil but it is possible so talk to your doctor or pharmacist for more details. If you are currently suffering from problems like eczema, scalp infection, heart problems, kidney disease, liver disease or any other health condition, do inform your doctor before the treatment. Again, it is best to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
Check us out if you want to learn more about our hair loss treatment or men’s health, and we’ll put you in touch with one of our licensed doctors so you can fully understand your options.
For better understanding before your consultation, read more about the type of hair loss that you are experiencing and what you should do if you are facing hair loss.
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