Minoxidil for hair loss is medically approved that helps to grow hair after hair transplant surgery. This tropical medication is also referred to as Rogaine and will help treat hair loss resulting from androgenetic alopecia. Research is still on to determine if this medication can treat other hair loss conditions like alopecia areata or chemotherapy-related hair loss. Androgenic alopecia affects many women, and it usually begins as a gradual thinning and will then continue over time.
Andro genetic alopecia is caused mainly by genetic, and most doctors think hormones play a massive role because women usually start losing their hair after menopause. Minoxidil’s side effects are minimal and mild. Therefore, this process is considered to be safe. This article consists of minoxidil side effects and other treatment options.
Minoxidil Side Effects
Contact Dermatitis
This side effect is the most common one when you use minoxidil for hair loss. Contact dermatitis usually happens minutes to hours after you have applied it to your scalp. The side effects have symptoms like itchiness. You might as well experience flaking skin or redness. Other symptoms of contact dermatitis are irritation and some burning.
If you are using minoxidil for the first time, ensure that you do not use it on the entire scalp. You can first apply it to a small part of your scalp and then wait for about a day. If you do not experience contact dermatitis symptoms, you can then use it on the entire head.
Unwanted Hair Growth
Minoxidil for hair loss can cause unwanted hair growth on your face if these medications come in contact with it. These hairs primarily affect women than men, but the reason for it is not yet known. Research shows that this affects 3 to 51 percent of female contestants. It usually takes about two months for you to see these unwanted hairs. It can cause hypertrichosis but in rare cases. It is common in teens and children.
Temporary Hair Falling
Minoxidil can make hair start falling due to using it. Your hair usually has four stages of growth, and these are the growing face. The second stage is the transition phase, and the third stage is the resting stage, and the last stage is the shedding phase.
Minoxidil helps to stimulate the growing phase, but it can also shorten the resting phase, which might lead to increased shedding. This shedding mostly happens two to eight weeks after the treatments begin. To avoid shedding, ensure that you take your medication as prescribed by the doctor.
Potential Fetal Development Impairment
Minoxidil is a category C pregnancy on the FDA list. Category C have not undergone enough human testing to show that they are safe for fetal development. The animal study, therefore, shows that it has possible dangers. If you are breastfeeding, make sure not to use this medication for hair loss. This medication can enter into breast milk and can affect your child.
Allergy Symptoms
Minoxidil for hair loss can be allergic to some people, but it is rare. Allergic symptoms usually appear first, and they are;
? Hives
? Itches
? Inflammation
? And rashes
If you become allergic to this treatment, make sure to stop the medication immediately.
Headaches
Research has reported that a certain percentage of women get headaches after they use minoxidil. These headaches are mild but will go away after some time. If this persists, make sure to call your doctor immediately. He might tell you to stop the medication or prescribe another treatment.
Heart Palpitations
Heart palpitation is a rare but possible side effect that comes after taking Rogaine. Research done in 2011 shows that a certain percentage of women get palpitations or a high heart rate. If you have a heart problem, you can talk to your doctor before you take this medication. Other potential complications that come after taking minoxidil include nausea, vomiting, and your hair might start changing its color or texture.
Minoxidil for hair loss is available over the counter. However, if you are dealing with hair loss, ensure that you talk to your doctor first. Your doctor will, first of all, examine your scalp and will then advise you on the proper treatment for your hair loss. If you have lost your hair suddenly or if your head is itching or burning, make sure to call your doctor. Also, if you see your hair falling in clamps or have bald patches, this would be the best time to call your doctor.
Takeaway
Minoxidil for hair loss can help both men and women who are going through hair loss. Most doctors will advise you to take the medication after the hair transplant to speed up the outcome. It is a safe process, and so the side effects are usually mild.
Author Bio :
Naman Modi is a Professional Blogger, SEO Expert & Guest blogger at beverlyhillshr.com, He is an Award-Winning Freelancer & Web Entrepreneur helping new entrepreneur?s launches their first successful online business.
As the editor of the blog, She curate insightful content that sparks curiosity and fosters learning. With a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, she strive to bring diverse perspectives and engaging narratives to readers, ensuring every piece informs, inspires, and enriches.
