Minoxidil was first discovered back in the mid-eighties. It was originally developed in tablet form as a treatment for high blood pressure. Whilst undergoing trials, Minoxidil was found to have a remarkable side effect. People undergoing treatment with Minoxidil were found to be growing excessive bodily hair.

This exciting discovery led to years of clinical research and trials. Eventually, Minoxidil was refined into a topical solution for the treatment of hair loss.

Minoxidil is excellent for controlling hair loss and in some cases also promotes hair growth. In fact, a person suffering from hair loss will almost definitely control any loss of hair within a maximum period of six weeks. After three months of continuous use, between the fourth and sixth month, it is very possible that new hair will begin to grow. Another advantage is that the hair appears thicker and fuller. Unfortunately, no product has yet been invented which when used for only a short period, would solve baldness for life.


If in the unlikely event that after using Minoxidil for six months no progress has been achieved, treatment should be discontinued. If however, Minoxidil has given the desired results, then it is important that its use is continued in order to retain the benefits achieved.

The dosage is 1ml applied twice daily direct to a clean, dry scalp. It is very important that you shampoo your hair regularly, preferably every day. There is no need to massage minoxidil in. The liquid is alcohol based and so evaporates off (just the same as aftershave does on your face) leaving your hair dry. Each application should take less than one minute.

Commercial Minoxidil hair loss lotion is available in 2% and 5% concentrations. The 2% is suitable for both men and women while the 5% is normally for men only. However, it is not uncommon for a physician to prescribe the 5% for women as well.

The lotion is supplied in 60ml bottles and since the dosage is 1ml twice a day, each bottle will last one month (30 days).

Caution

Minoxidil hair loss lotion is a medicinal and the stated dose should not be exceeded.

Do not use Minoxidil lotion if the skin of the area to be treated is inflamed or abraded, as in severe sunburn, infections, cuts or psoriasis. It should be noted that Minoxidil strengths higher than 2% might cause the growth of facial hair in women.


Minoxidil with Additives:

Minoxidil is also formulated by our pharmacists in different strengths ranging from 2% to 6%. The effect of Minoxidil may also be enhanced with the following additives:

Minoxidil with Saw Palmetto

Saw palmetto is a herbal product that was used by American Indians as a general tonic and to encourage appetite and normal weight gain. The fat soluble extract of saw palmetto has been shown to inhibit the enzyme 5-alpha reductase thereby reducing the formation of DHT.

Research has shown that the herb saw palmetto has the same effects as Finasteride in treating patients with Benign Prostate Enlargement. Since both hair loss and prostatic disease are related to DHT, many suggest that saw palmetto will also be effective in treating hair loss by reducing the amount of DHT in our body and around the hair follicles.

Unlike Finasteride, saw palmetto does not seem to have the side-effects of loss of sex drive or impotence. On the contrary it was used by the American Indians as a remedy for impotence and low libido in men and painful periods and lactation in women.

Minoxidil with Retin-A - Retin-A or Tretinoin are commonly used to exfoliate dead skin cells. Also, studies have shown that Retin-A or Tretinoin by itself may stimulate hair growth. When used in conjunction with topical minoxidil, the exfoliatory properties of Retin A or Tretionoin can also enhance penetration of minoxidil into the follicles.

Minoxidil with Finasteride - Probably the most synergistically ideal solution for hair loss. Minoxidil works as a hair re-growth stimulant while 5-alpha reductase inhibitor finasteride is known to halt further hair loss. Targeting hair loss at both angles.

Minoxidil with Azelaic Acid - DHT is commonly suggested to be the main cause for hair loss. Studies have shown that azelaic acid may function as an DHT inhibitor and may work synergistically together with minoxidil to stimulate hair re-growth while halting further hair loss.

Minoxidil with Azelaic Acid, Zinc, B6 and Grape Seed Extract - DHT is commonly suggested to be the main cause for hair loss. Azelaic acid when used in conjunction with topical zinc and B6 can inhibit up to 90% of DHT in human skin.

Minoxidil with Nicotinate - Nicotinate is a blood vessels dilator. This additive when used in conjunction with minoxidil may enhance the penetration and potency of minoxidil.

Minoxidil with Progesterone - Progesterone is a female hormone added in very small quantities to neutralize the local action of DHT. Not a lot of studies on the effect of topical progesterone on hair loss but some people think this may be beneficial for women pattern baldness.