Minoxidil Hair Loss Treatment

Minoxidil is a medication that was initially used to treat high blood pressure, but today, many use it to treat hair loss.

Topical minoxidil is approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration for the treatment of male pattern baldness.[1] According to research, it can be up to 60% effective in preventing hair loss and promoting hair growth.[2]

Whether the minoxidil product is in foam or liquid form, they both work by shortening the resting phase of hair growth, leading to a quicker transition to the growing phase.[1] There are four main phases in the hair growth cycle:

• anagen (growth);
• catagen (follicle shrinking);
• telogen (rest); and 
• exogen (shedding).

Typically, we retain most of the hair we grow, which lasts for months as our hair gradually sheds every day. Although it may be shocking at first to see your hair shedding, it is a natural bodily process for your hair to reach the next growth phase and grow new hair. Minoxidil products increase blood flow to the area applied and carry essential nutrients that support healthy hair like oxygen to nourish the follicles.

It’s important that you have an estimate of how much you’ll probably spend per month if you decide to use topical minoxidil to know if you can sustain it. Topical minoxidil doesn’t result in permanent scalp hair regrowth; it must be used continuously to maintain hair regrowth, if any.[3] If you are wanting a pharmacy grade treatment, the price of a 180 mL 5% minoxidil solution can be around $79, worth three months of use. If however you would like a doctor prescribed treatment, personalised to your hair loss situation, this can cost from $29 a month.

When considering topical minoxidil as a hair regrowth treatment, it’s crucial to be fully aware of the potential side effects. You may experience scalp itching, dryness, flaking, irritation, or burning. Let your doctor know if you experience any of these symptoms while using any minoxidil treatment. 
More severe side effects include weight gain, swelling of the face, difficulty breathing while lying down, rapid heart rate, chest pain, and lightheadedness.[2] You must contact your doctor immediately if any of these symptoms occur.

Using minoxidil hair products without proper guidance from a doctor can increase your chances of experiencing side effects, so consult a doctor before trying minoxidil or any type of hair loss treatment. 

If you’re using minoxidil hair loss treatment, it is recommended you leave minoxidil products on your scalp for at least two to four hours to let the minoxidil fully dry and soak into your skin.[3] This allows more minoxidil to be absorbed and may even prevent any wet minoxidil product from staining your clothing or linens.

The specific duration, frequency, and dosage of minoxidil are different for each patient. It depends on various factors, such as the product’s minoxidil concentration and the patient’s medical history. It is important to keep in mind that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for minoxidil hair loss treatment. A doctor should endorse, supervise, and guide these treatments.

Our doctors at Mosh will advise you on your hair loss concerns and, if necessary, recommend personalised solutions for your specific needs. If you’re not comfortable with your treatment plan, you’re not required to proceed with it. If you’ve decided to proceed with the treatment, Mosh can deliver the necessary items to your home for free.

Yes, minoxidil hair products can stain clothing, but it does not stain your skin.[4] If your hair or scalp is not completely dry after using minoxidil, the solution may discolour garments, caps, and sheets. This may happen if the medication gets on your pillowcase or bed linens or if your hands are not cleansed after applying minoxidil. In addition, avoid applying the medication to other areas of the body while moist to prevent stains.

The product for minoxidil hair loss treatment comes in various forms, such as minoxidil topical solution (liquid) and minoxidil topical foam. While both are similar in efficacy and ease of application, minoxidil topical foam generally has less chance of staining your clothing and linens. However, it is still recommended to allow at least two to four hours for the minoxidil to dry completely, especially before going to bed.

If you’re unsure what type of minoxidil hair product you should use on your hair and scalp, it’s best that you consult your doctor. Our doctors at Mosh can offer evidence-based recommendations to assist your health concerns based on your specific requirements, objectives, and medical history.

If you are prescribed a treatment plan, you can even avail of a subscription plan to get automatic refills. There’s no need to worry about travelling and queuing just to refill your prescription; we’ll have your medication delivered as needed.

You should generally leave minoxidil products on for two to four hours before going to bed as minoxidil can stain your clothing and linens.[5] Moreover, always follow your doctor’s recommended use and dosage. If you experience discomfort after applying any minoxidil product, consult your doctor immediately.

With Mosh’s subscription-based service, you have unlimited consultations with your doctor, so you have ongoing support and recommendations. We also have a reformulation guarantee. If you have a minoxidil hair loss treatment plan and find it too intense or too mild, we’ll review your current treatment plan and take care of the rest.

Yes, there are alternative treatments to minoxidil, including a variety of natural alternatives and other medical recommendations.[6] If necessary, our Mosh doctor will review your medical history and recommend complementary treatments to your minoxidil hair loss treatment.

Mosh offers prescription and non-prescription products that may help alleviate your health concerns. Talk to your doctor about over-the-counter products that can aid your hair health alongside minoxidil.

We at Mosh believe that early treatment is key to preventing hair loss. We’re committed to helping you get the results you’re after and delivering quality health services for all our Moshers.

Apart from your hair growth concerns, we at Mosh can assist you with other health concerns, including skincare, mental health, and sexual health, among others. If you have any questions, we are available Monday through Friday, 8.30 am to 5.30 pm AEST.

If you want to read more about hair loss, such as the difference between Pilot hair loss services and Mosh, continue browsing our platform. You may also explore hair regrowth products, such as minoxidil, hair growth vitamins, and hair growth spray, through our platform. 

No need to look for a hair loss doctor online. Our dedicated men’s health platform can assist you in addressing the issues that prevent you from walking out of your house with confidence.

Let’s talk to you about bringing out the more thriving you.