Does Kilgour Hair Topical (Minoxidil) Promote Hair Growth?
Yes, topical minoxidil is clinically proven to promote hair growth in men with androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness), particularly when applied as a 5% solution twice daily to the vertex scalp. 1
FDA-Approved Efficacy
- Minoxidil 5% topical solution is FDA-approved specifically for hair regrowth in men with gradually thinning hair or gradual hair loss on the top of the scalp (vertex only). 1
- The medication works by reactivating hair follicles to stimulate regrowth, though the exact mechanism is not fully understood. 1
- Results typically appear at 2 months with twice-daily usage, though some men may require at least 4 months of continuous use before seeing results. 1
Evidence Quality and Magnitude of Effect
- In randomized controlled trials, 5% topical minoxidil demonstrated 45% more hair regrowth than 2% minoxidil at 48 weeks, with clear superiority over placebo in increasing nonvellus hair count and scalp coverage. 2
- Men using 5% minoxidil experienced earlier response to treatment compared to those using 2% formulations. 2
- Recent 2025 guidelines confirm that topical minoxidil alone is more effective than placebo, though combination therapy with PRP (platelet-rich plasma) shows even greater efficacy. 3
Important Limitations and Caveats
Not everyone responds to minoxidil—individual response cannot be predicted, and it is unlikely anyone will regrow all their hair. 1
Specific Indications Where Minoxidil Works:
- Gradual thinning or hair loss on the vertex (top) of the scalp only—not intended for frontal baldness or receding hairline. 1
- Most effective in men who have been losing hair for a shorter period or have less extensive hair loss. 1
Situations Where Minoxidil Will NOT Work:
- Hair loss from medications, nutritional deficiencies (low iron, excess vitamin A), hypothyroidism, chemotherapy, or scalp scarring. 1
- Damage from hair care products causing scarring or deep burns. 1
- Hair grooming methods that pull hair tightly (cornrowing, tight ponytails). 1
- Patchy hair loss without family history of gradual thinning. 1
Critical Application Requirements
For optimal results, apply 1 mL directly to the scalp twice daily (morning and night), ensuring the medication reaches the scalp, not just the hair. 1
- Allow 2-4 hours for complete drying before bed to prevent staining of linens. 1
- Continuous, indefinite use is required to maintain results—stopping treatment will result in loss of newly regrown hair within 3-4 months. 1
- Using more than twice daily or larger doses does not improve results and may increase side effects. 1
Expected Hair Growth Pattern
- Initial regrowth typically consists of soft, downy, colorless hairs (peach fuzz). 1
- With continued use, new hairs should eventually match the color and thickness of existing scalp hair. 1
- Temporary increased hair loss may occur during the first 2 weeks of treatment—this is expected as old hairs shed to make way for new growth. If shedding continues beyond 2 weeks, medical evaluation is needed. 1
Safety Profile
- Most common adverse reactions are mild scalp dryness, irritation, and rarely allergic contact dermatitis. 4, 5
- The 5% formulation has increased occurrence of pruritus and local irritation compared to 2% minoxidil. 2
- Minoxidil 5% is for use only by men aged 18 and older—not approved for women, children, or infants. 1
Comparative Effectiveness
Recent 2025 guidelines demonstrate that while minoxidil monotherapy is effective, combination therapy with PRP and topical minoxidil 5% is the most effective treatment modality, superior to either treatment alone. 3