Is it safe to use Minoxidil 5% on healthy hair?

Question

My hair for the most part looks fine but i shed quite a bit and I've had dandruff and dry scalp issues that ive never been able to fix. So from being scared of eventually balding and wanting thicker hair anyways I was going to try and use Minoxidil but the instructions mention an increase of hair loss and then the hair that grows back will fall out if i stop using it. So if I were to start using Minoxidil would i loose my healthy hair and then have to keep using the product to keep the new hair?

Emrah Cinik, MD · Answer

Minoxidil is effective when it is in use. When you quit you usually loose the hair gained through minoxidil use. It is better to consult with your doctor before using it.

Vito C. Quatela, MD · Answer

Minoxidil is a FDA-approved topical medication for hair growth that works well for androgen (hormone) related hair loss.  It helps extend the growth cycle of hair and
decrease shedding that naturally occurs. 
For minoxidil to work, there is an activation process.  During the first four weeks, fine hairs may
shed where thicker hairs may replace. 
During this time, it may appear you are losing hair when it is actually
working.  However, if you stop using
minoxidil, your hair will revert back to the same growth cycle.  I recommend a consultation with an expert
in hair restoration.

John Peter Cole, MD · Answer

It is normal to shed hair every day.  It is estimated that you will loose 100 hair each day normally.  You could try counting the hair you are shedding.  There is another test that will tell you if you are starting to thin.  This is a cross sectional trichometry comparing the back of your head with the top of your head.  If both numbers are similar, you are not likely thinning and you will not benefit from minoxidil.  There are some considerations however.  All hair in all men and women begins to age with time beginning at age 35.  Things like Wnt-act, and Haircycle products can help you maintain a more youthful microenviroment for you hair and help keep the hair in place over time.  If you are loosing your hair, you might consider medications like minoxidil, but you first need to understand if you are naturally aging or whether you have androgenic alopecia.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I suggest seeing a hair loss expert now to go over your condition and provide you information about your best treatment options. There are great non-invasive options like prp/progesterone which can help with hair regrowth and/or hair transplantation. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Justin Rome, MD · Answer

I suggest you consult a practice who can evaluate you for miniaturization with high magnification hair photos.  If you see some thinning of the hairs you can consider using it, but it is not without risks or complications.  Dermatitis is not uncommon from the preservatives in it.  I've seen people even loose (albeit temporarily) all their hair from minoxidil products.  Good luck!  Dr. Rome

Is it safe to use Minoxidil 5% on healthy hair?

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Answer: Hair Growth Basics--prp, progesterone, hair transplantation, minoxidil

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Answer: Minoxidil risks

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Is it safe to use Minoxidil 5% on healthy hair?

Answers (9)

Answer: Hair Growth Basics--prp, progesterone, hair transplantation, minoxidil

Answer: Hair Growth Basics--prp, progesterone, hair transplantation, minoxidil

Answer: Minoxidil risks

Answer: Minoxidil risks

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