So you just had your hair transplant, and someone told you to use minoxidil after a hair transplant. You're feeling confused, isn't that the point of hair transplant? To not use minoxidil?
Well, here's why they said that and some important considerations before you use it.
What is minoxidil?
Minoxidil is a medication that is used to treat high blood pressure. It is also used to promote hair growth in balding people. Minoxidil was first developed as a treatment for high blood pressure. It works by expanding blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure.
Minoxidil was first sold as the brand-name drug Loniten. It is now available as a generic and over-the-counter (OTC) medication. Minoxidil is also sold under the brand names Rogaine and Regaine. Minoxidil is applied to the scalp twice daily to stimulate hair growth in balding people.
You can use minoxidil once a day, if you're feeling lazy - but there's a catch.
There are two forms of minoxidil, minoxidil foam and liquid.
It should be used indefinitely to maintain new hair growth.
Minoxidil is an FDA-approved medication for hair loss in men and women. It is safe and very effective when used as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. Talk to your doctor about whether minoxidil is suitable for you.
Why do you need to use minoxidil after a hair transplant?
Grow transplant hair
Most people are surprised to learn that hair transplant surgery is just the beginning of the hair growth process. To ensure that transplanted hair follicles take root and begin to grow, patients must take a medication called minoxidil.
For best results, patients should use minoxidil as directed by their surgeon. With regular use, minoxidil can help maximise hair transplant surgery's effects.
Stop shock loss
After the surgery, it is common for patients to experience what is known as "shock loss." The transplanted hair disappears, leaving the area looking thin and patchy. Minoxidil is a medication that helps to prevent shock loss and encourages new hair growth.
It is available in a liquid and foam formulation and can be applied directly to the scalp. Minoxidil is usually used for three to six months after surgery to see results. However, some doctors may recommend a longer course of treatment.
While minoxidil is generally safe, it can cause side effects such as itching, redness, and irritation. For this reason, it is mandatory to consult with a doctor before using this medication.
Control expected hair loss
Anyone who has undergone a hair transplant knows that the surgery is only half the battle. To ensure that your new hair follicles take root and flourish, it is essential to follow your doctor's post-operative care instructions to the letter.
One of the most important things you can do is to use minoxidil ( Rogaine) as directed. Minoxidil is a medication that helps to promote hair growth and prevent further hair loss. It is typically used once or twice a day and should be applied directly to the scalp.
While applying another medication to your already-sensitive scalp may seem like a hassle, using minoxidil as directed is essential for achieving the best possible results from your hair transplant.
Is there an alternative to minoxidil?
Why yes there are!
With the list of side effects and the fact that you have to use minoxidil indefinitely to see results, people are more often than not discouraged by this drug.
They start to seek out alternatives to minoxidil.
Understanding that, we made a list of only the best alternatives to minoxidil on the market right now.
When can you use minoxidil after a hair transplant?
One of the most common questions is, "when can I use minoxidil after a hair transplant?" The answer, unfortunately, is not a simple one. It depends on several factors, including your transplant type, the grafting technique used, and your healing process.
In general, however, we recommend waiting at least 3-6 months before using minoxidil. This gives the transplanted hairs time to establish themselves in their new location and minimises the risk of disturbing the delicate grafts. Of course, every patient is different, so follow your doctor's instructions regarding minoxidil use.
Will minoxidil work?
While minoxidil is generally safe after hair transplant surgery, there is no guarantee that it will be effective.
This is because minoxidil stimulates blood flow to the hair follicles, and the new strands created by surgery may already receive adequate blood flow.
As a result, patients should speak with their doctor before using minoxidil after hair transplant surgery.
Minoxidil side effects
While minoxidil is generally safe, it can cause side effects in some people.
Immediately after usage, you can start seeing minoxidil shedding.
Minoxidil's most common side effects are scalp irritation, dryness, headache, dizziness, restlessness, and flaking.
In some cases, minoxidil can cause serious side effects including sexual problems, fainting, chest pain, or irregular heartbeat.
If you experience these deleterious side effects, stop using minoxidil and talk to your doctor. They may be able to recommend ways to minimise them.
Reference
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6691938/
Read more:
- Does Minoxidil Work On Frontal Baldness?
- Does Hair Gel Cause Hair Loss: Everything You Need To Know
- Does Amlodipine Cause Hair Loss? What Can You Do To Stop It?