Questions regarding Minoxidil: what is the best way to apply?

There is no difference between using a brand or generic in terms of effectiveness. However, only the brand name has the foam vehicle which is less irritating due to its absence of propylene glycol. Rogaine works best when used with a micro needle roller. This allows better penetration. Timing is not as important as using it twice a day. Rogaine will stop hair loss in some. This depends upon the genetic predisposition. Studies have shown that most individuals do not continue to use Rogaine for a year before making an assessment. It is essential not to stop if one gets some initial shedding and finish at least a year of treatment.

The generic is just as effective as the brand and is a lot cheaper. It is generally best to purchase from a reputable pharmacy than to order medications online.
Minoxidil comes in two forms: solution and foam. The solution works better than the foam.
Apply a thorough coating of the solution all over the same areas of thinning on the scalp every single day. Often, this means using more than 1 or 2 droppers-full of solution and spreading it around your scalp with your fingertips. Your scalp should feel wet after the application. It is also important that the solution be in full contact with your scalp for at least 4-6 hours.  We find that it is easiest to apply it at bedtime.  

After a shower is a good time to apply Minoxidil. Keep in mind, it will take up to 6 months to see results with hair growth and you will need to maintain use to keep results. I suggest seeing a hair loss expert now to evaluate and go over your condition and provide you information about your best treatment options. There are great non-invasive options like prp/progesterone and/or hair transplantation. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

The most important thing is to apply twice daily for at least 700 applications yearly. Applying foam or liquid does not make much of a difference although the foam is less irritating. Many find that application after a hot shower works well but a far more important piece of advice to leave you with is just to apply it. Day in and day out. Kirkland is a reasonable option.

After showers will work best. I prefer my patients use foam as it is less irritating. You can also employ things such as roller micro needling which I generally advise against do to potential to introduce bacteria and fungus into the scalp, 
Recommend seeing a hair specialist to confirm your goals and expectations of the medication intersect. All too frequently they don't and valuable time was lost in the quest to maintain and regenerate hair growth.
Wishing you the very best outcome. 
Warmly,
Arbella Sarkis, MD

Brand does not matter with minoxidil use. Concentration of the medication does matter with minoxidil.

Minoxidil works best when the circulation of the scalp opens up and absorbs the drug through the skin. After a hot shower seems to do that best