Women's minoxidil and unwanted facial hair?

Question

I have been using women's minoxidil 5%foam for 6 months and noticed facial hair all over my face. Is this a side effect of minoxidil? Will it stop when I stop using the medication?

Bernardino Arocha, MD, FISHRS · Answer

JessUSA,Unfortunately unwanted facial hair growth is a risk of Rogaine use, this risk is dose related. However, the benefits are also greater with the higher dose. There are treatment options for this condition such as laser hair removal,and electrolysis. Good luck.Bernardino A. Arocha, MD

Jacquelline Leva, DO · Answer

So if the topical minoxdil goes anywhere other than the area treated this can lead to hair growth. Yes when you stop applying it to that area hair growth will usually go away

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

Yes, hair growth on the face occurs in 5 - 8 % of women who use minoxidil. It will go away when you stop minoxidil but it can take a while.  For some women, the hair disappears quickly when the minoxidil is stopped. However, in some women it can take a much longer time. Options like threading, laser and electrolysis sometimes need to be reviewed but the hair growth will fade after an extended period of time.

Women's minoxidil and unwanted facial hair?

Answers (3)