How to Apply Minoxidil?

Medically reviewed by Dr. Amy Revene M.B.B.S.
Written by Our Editorial Team
Last updated

Patient instructions are generally included with this medication. It is critical that you carefully follow the instructions.

You must take this medication exactly as prescribed. Please do not take more of it or take it more frequently than your doctor has prescribed. It's possible that doing so will enhance the likelihood of it being absorbed via the skin.

Summary

Do not apply minoxidil to other regions of your body for the same reason. Absorption into the body may harm the heart and blood vessels.

On the same skin region where you're using minoxidil, don't apply any other skin products. Hair coloring, permanents, and relaxers can all be used while on minoxidil treatment as long as the scalp is cleaned before applying the coloring, permanent, or relaxer.

Minoxidil should not be taken for at least 24 hours before or after hair treatment. Make sure you don't quadruple your minoxidil dosage to make up for any missing ones.

    How to apply liquid topical minoxidil?

    To use a topical minoxidil solution, follow these steps:

    1. Before using this medication, make sure your hair and scalp are dehydrated.
    2. Starting in the middle of the area to be treated, apply the amount suggested to the region of the scalp being treated. Use the applicator given by your doctor to apply the solution according to your doctor's recommendations.
    3. After using minoxidil, wait 4 hours before shampooing your hair.
    4. Please wash your hands immediately after using this drug to remove any medicine that may have gotten on them.
    5. After using the minoxidil solution, do not use a hairdryer to dry the scalp. Blowing on the scalp with a hairdryer may make the therapy less effective.
    6. Allow 2 to 4 hours for the minoxidil to dry completely after application, including before going to bed.
    7. If your hair or scalp isn't dehydrated after taking minoxidil, it might discolor clothes, caps, or bed linens.
    8. Avoid spreading the medication to other regions of the body while it is still moist. If the drug gets on your pillowcase or bed linens, or if you don't wash your hands after applying minoxidil, this might happen.

    How to apply foam topical minoxidil?

    To use minoxidil topical foam, follow these steps:

    1. Match the arrow on the can ring to the arrow on the cap to open the container. Remove the cap.
    2. To reveal the thinning hair region on the scalp, part the hair into one or more rows.
    3. To get foam on your fingertips, turn the can upside down and push the nozzle.
    4. Spread the foam over the hair loss region with your fingertips and gently massage it into your scalp.
    5. Please wash your hands immediately after using this drug to remove any medicine that may have gotten on them.
    6. Wait for it to dry.

    Consult your doctor before using minoxidil if your scalp is irritated, inflamed, or burnt.

    Minoxidil topical foam or solution should only be applied to the scalp. Avoid getting this drug in your eyes, nose, or mouth. Rinse it out entirely with cool tap water if you get some in your eyes, nose, or mouth by mistake. If you're using the pump spray, be sure you don't breathe it in.

    Use the foam away from heat and open flames, as well as while smoking. The aerosol cannot be punctured, broken, or burned.

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    How much dosage of minoxidil should you apply?

    This medicine's dosage will vary depending on the patient. Follow your doctor's orders or the label's instructions. Only the typical dosages of this medication are included in the following information. If your dose differs, do not alter it unless your doctor instructs you to.

    The amount of medicine you take is determined by the drug's strength. In addition, the number of dosages you take each day, the duration between doses, and the length of time you take the medication are all determined by the medical issue for which the medicine is being used.

    How to store minoxidil?

    Keep the drug away from heat, moisture, and direct light in a closed container at room temperature. Prevent the freezer from freezing.

    What do you do if you missed a dose?

    If you miss a dose of this medicine, apply it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular dosing schedule.

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      Dr Amy Revene M.B.B.S. graduated from the University of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates. She is currently working as a General Physician at New Hope Medical Center. Amy has a passion for research and offers her expertise and opinions to help people in their quest to lead healthy, happy lives.