Minoxidil - Does it help to grow beard?

I do not believe there is a clear, correct yes or no answer. In one study published in 2016 in the Journal of Dermatology, minoxidil was found to be safe and slightly more effective than placebo for beard growth. In my opinion, you could undoubtedly try minoxidil for a year and see for yourself.If, after a year, there is no improvement, you can consider beard transplantation. There is no better and safer way to treat a thin or absent beard permanently.

What is minoxidil?
Minoxidil is a topical treatment usually found as a scalp spray or dropped serum that is given to patients when they have early stages of hair fall or hair redundancy issues.
How does minoxidil work?
This topical medication works by promoting vasodilation to the region applied, or in simpler terms it increases the blood flow to the area it is applied on.
How does enhanced circulation boost hair growth?
The increased blood flow in turn promotes the growth of the hair follicles present in the region (owing to growth factors found in platelets).
Does minoxidil work only on the scalp?
As mentioned above, the compund works by boosting blood flow, therefore, it can also be applied to areas like the beard or mustache to enhance their growth if found dormant.
Does minoxidil work for every patient?
Not necasserily, minoxidil is a part of the treatment plan provided to patients with early on hair fall or reduction in hair growth. Therefore, if the patient has had redundant hair or any other co-morbidities like male pattern baldness, alopecia etc in later stages, there may be little to no effect. Though one nee not lose hope, at times a combination of minoxidil with other treatments like supplements and hair care routines may do the trick.
What other treatments are available?
Other treatments like platelet rich plasma therapy and low level laser therapy is prompted as the next step in the treatment protocol. The final option would become a beard transplant.