Starting treatment is a big step towards taking control of hair loss, and taking a few minutes to read this guide carefully will help you get the most out of it. Understanding how your treatment works, what to expect, and how to use it properly will help you get the best results. Rest assured, you’re not alone on this journey - our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Is it possible to treat hair loss?
Many men assume that nothing can be done about hair loss, but the science disagrees! The vast majority of men respond positively to treatment.
Minoxidil is a highly effective growth stimulator that can slow down the progression of hair loss and produce noticeable improvements in density.
So, there's hope yet! Let's tackle this together.
How does Minoxidil work?
Minoxidil works by improving blood flow to hair follicles, and shifting your hair into the growth phase of the hair cycle.
This helps to slow further hair loss while promoting better density. Both the number as well as the thickness of individual hairs improve as a result. We've also included 5% topical azelaic acid, which is designed to exfoliate the scalp, improve skin quality, and enhance the delivery of minoxidil where it's most needed.
Will this treatment work for me?
The amount of hair regrowth varies from person to person. For the best results, consistency is key - taking your medication as prescribed is essential.
- Studies show that minoxidil alone results in improvement or stabilisation of hair loss in up to 60% of users.
- Starting treatment early is critical, as it’s easier to maintain your current hair than to regrow hair that has already been lost.
- The combination of 10% topical minoxidil and 5% azelaic acid works synergistically. With the increased strength of our 10% spray, you only need to apply it once a day to see results.
How to use minoxidil 10%
It is important to apply the spray regularly and as directed to ensure optimal results.
Do not apply minoxidil to broken/shaved, sunburnt or irritated skin as this can increase how much medication is absorbed.
The spray should be applied as follows:
1. Wash your hands before and after applying the solution.
2. Apply the solution to dry/towel-dried hair and scalp. Part the hair to allow delivery onto the scalp areas most impacted.
3. Apply 1 ml (7 sprays) of the solution ONCE daily to the most affected scalp areas - you can do this at a time which best suits you. You can gently spread the liquid with your fingertips if necessary.
Note: We suggest applying it a night so that you can sleep whilst it works without impacting your grooming routine. Also remember, you should apply to the skin directly and not the hair.
4. Using more than 1 ml for each application, or more than once a day will not enhance results and will result in losing product unnecessarily.
Extra tips:
- Allow the solution to dry for at least 20 minutes before applying any hair styling products, or going to bed.
- If you forget to apply, no stress, just apply when the next dose is due. No need to double up.
- If you find it too oily, ensure you use it on clean hair, you can also gently use a hairdryer to allow the liquid to dry sooner.
Results will come to those who wait!
How soon can I expect results?
The sooner you start treatment after noticing hair loss, the better your chances of success. Results typically appear within 3-6 months, though it usually takes around 12 months to reach the maximum effectiveness.
How long should I take it for?
Any hair that is regrown or strengthened by using minoxidil requires continuous treatment to maintain the results. If treatment is stopped, new hair growth is likely to reduce over 3–12 months as follicles revert to shorter growth cycles.
What are the side effects?
Topical minoxidil is generally a very safe medication. Serious side effects are rare, since only a small amount of the medication is absorbed through the scalp.
However it’s important you understand what to look out for. Stop using this treatment plan and talk to a clinician if you experience any of the following symptoms.
Allergies
If you are allergic to minoxidil, or any other ingredient in the spray, do not take this medication.
Signs of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, or feeling faint.
In severe cases this can progress to anaphylaxis, which is a medical emergency. If you experience any of these symptoms after taking your medication, call 999 or go to A&E immediately.
If you feel seriously unwell or experience severe or persistent side effects, please seek immediate medical attention by going to your local Accident & Emergency department or calling 999 in an emergency.
We want the best for you and your health. It is important that you don’t feel alone, so please voice your concerns and get in touch with one of our team members for more help if you need it. You can message a clinician via the live messaging function on your patient account.
If you’d like to speak with a clinician, please call our side effects support line on 020 4538 8411 (Mon-Fri, 09:00–17:00), and you’ll be able to connect with a clinician within minutes.
You can also report side effects through the government’s Yellow Card scheme at https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk/. This helps to improve medication safety for everyone.
Why am I shedding?
Temporary hair shedding may occur in the first few weeks of treatment. This is a normal part of the process and indicates that the medication is doing its job. Treatment shifts hair follicles into a new growth cycle, causing older hairs to shed before new ones come through. It typically resolves within 2–8 weeks.
When will I see the Results?
It's natural to be eager for results, but it's crucial to understand that success takes time.
Minoxidil gets to work as soon as you start taking it, but visible results will not appear immediately. While early signs may appear within 3-6 months, we recommend committing to the treatment plan for 12 months to fully appreciate its effects.
Keep in mind, restoring hair isn't a quick fix - it's a journey that requires patience and persistence.
Who should not take it?
Topical minoxidil 10% is not suitable for:
- Women
- Male patients under 18 years of age
- Individuals over 65 years of age
- Those experiencing non-hereditary hair loss, unexplained sudden hair loss, or total baldness
- Patients who have uncontrolled low or high blood pressure
- Those with scalp conditions or inflammation such as psoriasis and sunburnt or damaged skin.
- Those who are allergic to minoxidil, azelaic acid, propylene glycol, alcohol, or purified water.
Please keep your medication out of the reach of children and pets, as consumption of minoxidil can lead to significant harm.
Other medications/medical conditions
Topical minoxidil is generally safe to use alongside other medications. However, if absorbed excessively -such as in cases of inflamed skin -it may increase the risk of low blood pressure, particularly when combined with blood pressure medications.
If you start any new medications, or have any changes in your medical history, please let us know. You can also download a letter from your account page to share with your GP, ensuring they have all the relevant details about your treatment.
