Both skincare and hair care are extremely crucial for men and women equally. Today’s global market is flooded with millions of products that cater to such concerns. Hair serums occupy a much considerable amount of space in this sector. Speaking of which, hair serums with minoxidil are among the most popular options. So what is this minoxidil serum, and is minoxidil serum good for hair? Let’s check it out.
What is Minoxidil?
Minoxidil is a chemical compound that falls under the category of antihypertensive vasodilator. It may cause reflex tachycardia and is thus often prescribed with a beta blocker. It is commonly available as a generic medication in the dosage forms of oral tablets, and as an over-the-counter medication in the dosage form of topical liquid or foam.
What are the uses of Minoxidil?
Minoxidil is a medication used for the treatment of medical conditions like high blood pressure and some patterns of hair loss in both men and women.
Minoxidil is specifically effective in promoting hair growth in men and women with the syndrome of androgenic alopecia. It must be used in continuation in order to maintain the existing hair follicles and promote hair regrowth.
When used for hypertension, it is generally prescribed for patients who do not respond to at least two agents and a diuretic.
This medication is also administered with a loop diuretic to prevent sodium and potassium retention.
What are the different dosage forms available for Minoxidil?
In the case of treating hair loss issues, it is usually taken in the dosage form of a topical liquid solution.
Low-dose oral Minoxidil (LDOM) is used as an off-label medication against hair loss and to promote hair regrowth.
Oral Minoxidil has been found to be an equally effective and well-tolerated alternative for its topical formulations, in case any patient is not getting enough desired results from the latter.
How does Minoxidil work for hair growth?
Minoxidil happens to be an adenosine 5′-triphosphate-sensitive potassium channel opener. It is responsible for the hyperpolarization of cell membranes. It widens blood vessels and opens potassium channels, which allows more oxygen, blood, and nutrients to the hair follicles. In simplest terms, it works by stimulating blood flow to your scalp and activating your hair follicles so that they enter the anagen or growth phase of the hair growth cycle.
Moreover, Minoxidil may even act as a nitric oxide agonist. This may cause follicles in the telogen phase to shed, which are then replaced by thicker hairs in a new anagen phase.
Is Minoxidil serum good for hair: Minoxidil 5% or 10%, which is better?
Minoxidil comes as a liquid solution or foam and is available in several concentrations, ranging from the mildest 2% solution to high-strength 10% and 15% minoxidil which is supposed to add extra length to hair strands.
Most minoxidil products, including our topical minoxidil solution, use a 5% formulation of minoxidil. Research says that this concentration is the most effective for treating hair loss and facilitating hair regrowth. Currently, Minoxidil 5% and Minoxidil 2% are the only minoxidil solutions that are approved by the FDA as treatments for hair loss.
Most of the studies concerning the effects of Minoxidil formulations containing higher concentrations like 10% or 15% Minoxidil have come with mixed results. Although these concentrations are not approved by FDA for promoting hair regeneration, there are still numerous products having much higher concentrations and are immensely promoted online.
What are the benefits of Minoxidil 10%?
It is used to treat common hereditary baldness (a condition called alopecia androgenetic). It acts on the scalp to help hair growth in the bald area. It should be only applied directly to the scalp area. When it is applied to the scalp, it helps to increase blood flow. This increased blood flow provides more nutrition and oxygen to the hair follicles which prevents hair cell death and enhances new hair growth.
How long does it take for Minoxidil 10% to work?
Minoxidil 10% starts working within 4 to 8 weeks, but one might not be able to see the full-fledged results right away. It might take up to 4 to 6 months of continuous usage before you see significant improvement in your hair growth.
How often should I use Minoxidil 10%?
In the case of haircare, you may use Minoxidil twice a day, i,e in the morning and in the evening. But you should strictly abide by the recommended minoxidil dosage for hair loss, as suggested by your dermatologist or as mentioned on the product label.
There’s no need to use Minoxidil more than twice a day. It is important to understand that applying Minoxidil more often than what is being prescribed, will not improve your results, rather at times it might actually increase your risk of experiencing skin irritation or other side effects.
In case you miss out on a dose and remember it shortly after, try to apply it right away. However, if it is already close to the time for your next dose, it is better that you skip the missed dose and use the medication as normal.
Are there any side effects of using Minoxidil?
Serious side effects from Minoxidil for hair aren’t very common. However, there might be certain reactions or side effects like itching, irritated skin or redness, dryness, scaling, flaking, irritation, or burning.
But in case, you are using Minoxidil for high blood pressure and experience any of the following symptoms, do call a doctor right away:
- weight gain
- swelling of the face, ankles, hands, or stomach
- Breathing problems (especially when lying down)
- rapid heartbeat
- chest pain
- lightheadedness
How to store Minoxidil?
It should be stored in a convenient place that is away from heat and moisture and is also far away from children’s reach.