Can I use fewer than 1 ml of Minoxidil? The thinning area of my scalp is small. Advice?

Question

The thinning area of my scalp is small so I can cover it with only 2-3 drops of minoxidil, or fewer than 1 ml of minoxidil. If I use more than 3 drops, it would drip down my forehead. The question is, do I have to use exactly 1 ml of minoxidil to make sure it works or will it also work if I use fewer than that? Thank you.

Karthik Ram, MRCS, DNB · Answer

Hello, Thanks for sharing your query. Yes you can use minoxidil the quantity you feel is sufficient to wet the affected areas. It is the percentage which matters and also how much remains on scalp rather than on hair that determine the results. Consult a board certified plastic surgeon.

Jayanthy Ravindran, MS, DNB, MRCS · Answer

Minoxidil is a popular medication that is prescribed to many by specialists as a treatment protocol to salvage thinning hair. This medication aids in improving circulation in the area where its applied via vasodilation, therefore, boosting hair growth of dormant hair follicles.
Does minoxidil need to be used all over the scalp?
It is more than sufficient to cover just the area of thinning. Minoxidil does not need to be applied all over the scalp.
How is minoxidil applied?
To the area of thinning, minoxidil can either be sprayed or applied using a dropper and then rubbed into the area whichever the patient is comfortable with.
How much minoxidil should be applied?
This depends on the surface area of thinning on the scalp. If the patient has a very small area (early stages of hair fall), then they require minimal minoxidil and vice versa.
How does one know if they are applying enough?
After the patient applies the medication, if the scalp is mildly damp then the amount applied is correctly. The area should neither be dry nor be dripping wet.

Sara Wasserbauer, MD · Answer

You only need to make sure you get the minoxidil onto the area of the scalp you want to treat and allow it to be absorbed.  Good luck!

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

You are correct. If the area is small you can start with less than 1 mL. If it does not improve see a physician to discuss whether increased amounts would likely help.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

You only have to use enough minoxidil to apply to the area that you want to treat. I agree with your approach

Can I use fewer than 1 ml of Minoxidil? The thinning area of my scalp is small. Advice?

Answers (5)

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