A little bit redness with Minoxidil 5%, is that normal?

Question

A little bit redness with minoxidil 5%, is normal? Do I have to stop using it? How to know if I have dermatitis? thank in advance jesus

David Deutsch, MD · Answer

If applied properly to the scalp Minoxidil(Rogaine) can cause skin redness and irritation.If it persists and is uncomfortable, consider decreasing to once a day or to the 2% formula.I would recommend consulting with a Dermatologist.

Craig L. Ziering, DO · Answer

If you have fair skin, you may experience a little bit of
redness with minoxidil since it dilates blood vessels, however, if it is
persistent, itchy, or painful it may be an allergic reaction to the minoxidil
or more likely due to propylene glycol (PG) which may be used in the solutions
base.  Minoxidil foam is PG free. You can test for dermatitis by putting a
small amount in your inner arm and see if you have a reaction there or you can
go to a dermatologist for skin testing.

Matt Tahsini, MD · Answer

Thank you for the post. Yes, that is a common side effect of Minoxidil. Minoxidil can cause irritation of the scalp, redness, dryness, itchiness, to name a few. If you feel your skin is not handling the minoxidil well, consider using a lower dose/percentage. Hope this helps.

Robert Nettles, MD · Answer

Minoxidil unfortunately requires to be mixed with alcohol as a base.  ITs the alcohol which causes the problems.  Mind you Minoxidil is still only a general prostaglandin agonist.  There are other more effective hair growth stimulants which are specific to head hair and which will produce much better results without the irritation caused by minixidil formulas.  Go see a hair regrowth specialist who is not also a transplant surgeon to learn about the newest treatment options available. Minoxidil first came out over 20 years ago and if it really cured hair loss there wouldnt be so many bald people still around.

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

Redness with minoxidil is not necessarily bad - unless the itch is severe, or associated with severe flaking or shedding of hair. See your dermatologist if you are worried or the redness worsens. A mild dermatitis may help the minoxidil work better. I often advise my patients to add an anti-dandruff shampoo to their routines as it may help control yeast that sometimes contribute to the minoxidil dermatitis.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

minoxidil is a skin irritant and can produce redness. IF this persists, you may not be a candidate for this medication

A little bit redness with Minoxidil 5%, is that normal?

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