From the FDA Drug Label
Minoxidil topical solution 5% is a clear, light amber liquid medication containing 5% minoxidil for use only on the scalp to help regrow hair in men. Minoxidil topical solution 5% is for use only by men Minoxidil topical solution 5% is for men with hair loss or thinning hair that begins on the vertex of the scalp. Clinically proven to help regrow hair. Reactivates hair follicles to stimulate regrowth.
Topical 5% Minoxidil may help with androgenetic alopecia (hair loss) in men, particularly those with hair loss on the vertex of the scalp. It is clinically proven to help regrow hair and reactivates hair follicles to stimulate regrowth. However, results may vary and it is unlikely that anyone will be able to grow back all their hair 1.
From the Research
Topical 5% minoxidil is a proven treatment for androgenetic alopecia, and I strongly recommend its use for patients experiencing hair loss, as evidenced by studies such as 2 and 3. When considering treatment options for androgenetic alopecia, it's essential to prioritize evidence-based treatments that have demonstrated efficacy in improving hair density and reducing hair loss.
- Minoxidil, specifically topical 5% minoxidil, has been shown to be effective in treating androgenetic alopecia by prolonging the growth phase of hair follicles and increasing blood flow to the scalp 2.
- Finasteride, a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor, is also an effective treatment option, particularly for men, as it blocks the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to hair follicle miniaturization 4.
- Combination therapy, such as using minoxidil and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, has also been shown to be effective in treating androgenetic alopecia, with studies demonstrating significant improvements in hair density and hair shaft diameter 3. Key points to consider when treating androgenetic alopecia include:
- The importance of early treatment, as hair loss can be more effectively managed when addressed promptly
- The need for a comprehensive treatment plan, which may involve a combination of topical and oral medications, as well as lifestyle modifications
- The potential benefits and risks associated with each treatment option, including the risk of sexual adverse effects with finasteride and the potential for hypertrichosis with minoxidil 4. Overall, topical 5% minoxidil is a well-established treatment for androgenetic alopecia, and its use should be considered as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, as supported by studies such as 2 and 3.