Androgenetic alopecia is a prevalent Hair loss condition and is commonly referred to as male patterned baldness¹. As its name suggests, this hair loss disorder occurs more frequently in men (70% prevalence) as compared to women (40% prevalence)¹. Patients with this condition display miniaturized hair follicles, possibly caused by a genetic susceptibility related to the presence of certain hormones, preventing the follicle from producing hair².

Minoxidil is an approved treatment for androgenetic alopecia^3,4. Minoxidil is available as either a solution or foam and is applied directly onto the scalp. The foam application is the preferred option as minoxidil solutions can contain proplene glycol, a known skin irritant. This irritant can led to severe itching and/or dandruff⁵. Minoxidil solutions can also make your hair feel greasy and can make styling difficult⁵. Higher concentrations (5%) are desired as lower minoxidil concentrations (2%) require more frequent application (once a day application vs. twice a day application, respectively).

Both men and women can use minoxidil. Minoxidil (5%) treated women displayed higher amounts of hair (p7. Additionally, in men minoxidil foam can increase the average hair count as evident in a before-and-after trial⁸.  Minoxidil is also not associated with serious adverse effects. Non-serious adverse effects associated with 2% or 3% minoxidil treated patients are similar to placebo treated patients after 4 months of treatment⁶.

Minoxidil should be applied as prescribed since results may not be noticeable until 3 to 6 months of treatment is reached. If you have any questions or concerns when using this product, be sure to speak with your doctor.

Article by: Sarah Versteeg MSc, Mediprobe Research Inc. 

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