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Unlike Finasteride, which is taken as a pill, Minoxidil is applied topically as a spray. This can make it a little fiddly at first, but you will get the hang of it quickly.

If you’re using the 5% strength Minoxidil solution, apply it twice daily directly onto the affected area. (note, there is a stronger 10% solution available, which should be used more sparingly). Avoid drippage and wash your hands thoroughly afterwards – as you don’t want the active ingredient in unintended areas. Stick to the recommended dose, and if you miss an application, don’t double the next dose to “catch up”. This will only increase the chances of side effects – without improving the results.

Remember, there is no quick fix for hair loss – and Minoxidil treatment takes time. So, keep it up daily and you will see results.

While Minoxidil is an over-the-counter medication, it is crucial that people who do not need to take the medicine do not take it. Medication used incorrectly can be seriously harmful.

Minoxidil should only be used by men with male pattern baldness. Other types of hair loss – including alopecia areata – will not be effectively treated with Minoxidil. So, if your hair loss is accompanied by scabs and lesions, for example, do not take Minoxidil. This only increases the chances of the drug entering your bloodstream.

It is generally not recommended for people with uncontrolled high or low blood pressure (as per our guidelines). Combining Minoxidil with medications for these conditions increases the risk of side effects. Do not use the medication if you are under eighteen years old. If you are a woman, talk to a healthcare professional before using Minoxidil – particularly if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Regaine for women is available, but it is not in our offering and is a different licensed product

The side effects of Minoxidil are rare and, when they do occur, they are usually temporary and mild. However, you do need to understand the risks.

The most common side effect of Minoxidil is irritated skin where the spray has been applied. In the majority of cases, this is the result of the alcohol within the solution. If you already have scalp irritation or itchiness, however, do not apply the formulation.

Because Minoxidil is a vasodilator, it can lower your blood pressure slightly. Symptoms associated with this include dizziness, tiredness, and drowsiness, as well as swelling around the face and hands. Other side effects can include vision alterations, nausea, changes to your heart beat, chest pain, and flushing. Do not use the medication if you are under eighteen years old. If you are a woman, talk to a healthcare professional before using Minoxidil – particularly if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Regaine for women is available, but it is not in our offering and is a different licensed product.

If you experience any of these – or if you come out in a rash or have severe itching – stop using Minoxidil immediately and consult a doctor

Note: Shedding is a common short-term side effect, typically occurring during the first 2-3 weeks of use. This is nothing to panic about, and actually shows the treatment is working. It’s a positive sign. Shedding that persists beyond this timeframe should be reviewed by your GP to exclude other causes.