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Does Minoxidil Cause Fine Hair Growth On Face?
Question: Hi,
I am 38 years old female have been diagnosed with female pattern hair loss and doctor suggested Minoxidil 5% 2 ml once a day . I have been using that for the past 2 and half months. My hair fall has stopped and I can see hair growth. But I can also see fine hair growth under the side of my eyes. Doctor says it is not due to minoxidil . He also says I can stop Minoxidil once my hair growth stabilizes is it true. Do I need to continue using minoxidil through out life and how can I take care of facial hair
I am 38 years old female have been diagnosed with female pattern hair loss and doctor suggested Minoxidil 5% 2 ml once a day . I have been using that for the past 2 and half months. My hair fall has stopped and I can see hair growth. But I can also see fine hair growth under the side of my eyes. Doctor says it is not due to minoxidil . He also says I can stop Minoxidil once my hair growth stabilizes is it true. Do I need to continue using minoxidil through out life and how can I take care of facial hair
Brief Answer:
Minoxidil and hair loss
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Welcome to healthcare magic.
I understand from your query that you are having female pattern hair loss and are on minoxidil.
The fine hair which you have observed could be related to the use of minoxidil. In some patients, minoxidil can get absorbed and cause fine hair growth on the face.
I would suggest to you the following -
1. Switch to 2% Minoxidil which is the recommended strength for females. 5% is usually given for males. However, some dermatologists prefer to start females on 5% and then switch to 2%.
2. Use minoxidil only above the hairline and ensure that it does not drip onto the forehead. Use it preferably 1 hour before bedtime to prevent it from seeping down.
3. You have to use minoxidil as long as you want the hair density to be maintained. Female pattern hair loss is genetically mediated and once you stop the solution, the same physiology will start again and you will lose hair again.
4. There are newer options like peptides and saw palmetto containing solutions. However, minoxidil is time tested. If you feel the facial hair is not coming down inspite of reducing the strength, you may have to stop minoxidil and switch to alternative solutions.
5. Facial hair which has now developed will come down on its own once you reduce the strength.
Hope this answers your queries.
If you have any more doubts, I will be glad to answer.
Take care.
Regards,
Dr. Johny Chacko
Minoxidil and hair loss
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Welcome to healthcare magic.
I understand from your query that you are having female pattern hair loss and are on minoxidil.
The fine hair which you have observed could be related to the use of minoxidil. In some patients, minoxidil can get absorbed and cause fine hair growth on the face.
I would suggest to you the following -
1. Switch to 2% Minoxidil which is the recommended strength for females. 5% is usually given for males. However, some dermatologists prefer to start females on 5% and then switch to 2%.
2. Use minoxidil only above the hairline and ensure that it does not drip onto the forehead. Use it preferably 1 hour before bedtime to prevent it from seeping down.
3. You have to use minoxidil as long as you want the hair density to be maintained. Female pattern hair loss is genetically mediated and once you stop the solution, the same physiology will start again and you will lose hair again.
4. There are newer options like peptides and saw palmetto containing solutions. However, minoxidil is time tested. If you feel the facial hair is not coming down inspite of reducing the strength, you may have to stop minoxidil and switch to alternative solutions.
5. Facial hair which has now developed will come down on its own once you reduce the strength.
Hope this answers your queries.
If you have any more doubts, I will be glad to answer.
Take care.
Regards,
Dr. Johny Chacko
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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