Minoxidil 2% Review
The first drug to be approved by the FDA for the treatment of androgenic alopecia, or genetic pattern hair loss, was minoxidil in the 1980s. Prior to being used as a topical hair loss agent, minoxidil in pill form was, and still is, used as a treatment for high blood pressure. The drug was an vasodilator which helped widen blood vessels and increase blood flow.
In the early years, some men who took minoxidil for high blood pressure noticed that hair was regrowing on their heads. The company maker, Upjohn Corporation, formulated and introduced a topical 2% hair loss formula named Rogaine in 1988. Since then, many generic versions of minoxidil exist in both 2% and 5% strengths.
Minoxidil 2% solution is also the only approved drug strength for women to use as a hair restorer. Although fewer women suffer from genetic hair loss, about 1 in 5 still have pattern hair loss that is usually seen on the top of the head. The 2% strength has been shown to be effective in preventing further thinning of the hair and regrowing old hair in women.
Benefits of Minoxidil 2%
Minoxidil is a drug that helps blood flow. When applied to areas of thinning hair, minoxidil helps increase blood flow to the hair follicles, specifically to the bulb in the root of the hair where hair is constructed of protein molecules.
Minoxidil 2% is most effective for thin hair on top of the scalp. When applied regularly (twice daily), about 42% of users notice regrowth of hair in applied areas. Minoxidil in higher doses for men have a higher success rate on both the vertex and around the frontal hairline.
Method of Treatment
Minoxidil 2% is a topical treatment meant to be used twice daily. Each dose is gently rubbed into the hair loss area and dries quickly. Usually it is applied to dry hair, but can be applied to wet hair as well. Hair can be styled as normal with other hair products after the dose of 2% has dried. It is recommended to keep each dose of minoxidil 2% in the hair for at least 4 hours before washing.
Costs Minoxidil 2%
Minoxidil 2% can be purchased over the counter for about $20 or less.
Side Effects
Most common side effects of minoxidil 2% are itchy scalp or dandruff. In fewer cases, an individual may experience headaches, acne on the applied area, faster heart rate, low blood pressure, blurred vision, or numbness.
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use minoxidil 2%.
Those who first begin using minoxidil 2% may notice a shedding of more hair in the first couple of months. This is a normal process of hair re-growth and is usually followed by noticeable new hair.
