Will taking oral minoxidil cause my body hair to grow back?

Question

I (27m) have been getting laser hair removal treatments and have 4 more sessions .. It is going very well, however I also have androgenic alopecia and want to treat it. I've been looking at oral minoxidil.. Will taking oral minoxidil cause my body hair to grow back? I also plan to start taking HRT (estrogen) in a few months. Would this have an effect on the treatments or the minoxidil? Should I try something else instead? Thank you

Anna Petropoulos, MD, FRCS · Answer

Hello Foxxriddle! Thank you for your question. I'm sure there are others wondering the same things! Minoxidil can indeed have a systemic effect (even the topical form), so if body hair returning is a concern other treatments such as PRP/Exosome injections and AquafirmeXS Derive might be better for you. Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections to the scalp have been shown to stimulate and regrow thinning hair. Stem cell derived exosomes are often available as well. Aquafirme is a plant-based hydrafacial system that has a specific protocol and system to combat hair loss. This is a very comfortable treatment (no needles) with very impressive results thanks to their proprietary delivery system and plant-based exosomes.   All of this is to say you absolutely have options for treatment that could spare your laser results! We do not specialize in HRT, but estrogen supplementation can actually improve hair so this may work in your favor! We wish you the best of luck in your search! Genie Alexander, RN BSN for Dr. Anna Petropoulos, MD FRCS. Center for Classic Beauty, Boston.

Matt Tahsini, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for you  question. There is a possibility that Minoxidil will make your body hair grow. The drug doesn't really know where you want hair to grow. This is really a question for your doctor who knows your medical history.  Best of luck to you.

Dr. T

Will taking oral minoxidil cause my body hair to grow back?

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Will taking oral minoxidil cause my body hair to grow back?

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Everything you need to know about Hair Loss Treatment

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.