Debunking Common Minoxidil Myths

There are plenty of common misconceptions floating around the internet about hair loss including one of the most tried and tested hair loss treatments, Minoxidil.  When it comes to hair loss treatments, you will find a multitude of contradictions that state that one type of treatment of medication works whereas another site will try and prove otherwise. In this article, we will try and help separate fact from fiction and highlight some of the most common myths surrounding minoxidil so we can set you on the straight and narrow when you’re deciding the right hair loss treatment for you.

Minoxidil has been used to treat hair loss since the 1990s when it was first licensed by the US FDA for use specifically for male pattern hair loss. It is typically used as a topical formulation with the most commonly used strength being 5% applied twice daily. 

Minoxidil can cure baldness

Whilst there is no definitive cure for male pattern baldness, Minoxidil is one of 2 licensed drugs used to treat male pattern hair loss, the other being Finasteride. This means that they have been proven to be effective in treating male pattern hair loss and considered safe to do so. The exact mechanism of action of Minoxidil is unknown but it is thought to improve blood flow to the scalp. Taken with Finasteride, they can synergistically combine to give the most effective treatment for male pattern hair loss. On its own, Minoxidil is suitable for early hair loss. The best treatment for more moderate hair loss is the Ultimate Plan available at Sons, as this covers all bases with hair regrowth and protection.

Minoxidil can harm the hair regrowth progress

Shedding is a side effect early on in taking Minoxidil which is often misunderstood and leads some people to stop taking it prematurely. This shedding happens typically in the first month of taking hair loss treatments and is a sign of increased turnover of hairs, with thinning, damaged hairs being replaced with fuller, thicker hairs. The shedding settles down with continued usage of Minoxidil as the treatment continues to improve hair quality and quantity. 

Lost Libido during Minoxidil treatment

Another false statement about minoxidil that can cause concern, however, thankfully is a myth. There is no evidence that taking Minoxidil affects your libido at all. 

Summary

Many myths exist around hair loss treatments, not surprising given the number of treatments out there, it can be hard to know what to believe, and Minoxidil is not immune to these myths, despite being one of the most widely studied and used hair loss treatments worldwide. Always ensure that any claims you read are evidence based when researching hair loss treatment. Sons Sons always puts the safety of their customers first and aims to provide reliable and accurate information about hair loss treatments. If you are curious to learn more about Minoxidil or any other types of hair loss treatment then be sure to visit the Sons journal for further articles on hair loss.

All of our blog articles are reviewed by our Medical Director before publication.