There are many types of minoxidil on the market today, but which is the best for you? Choosing the right one can be challenging, as everyone's body responds to treatments differently.
In this post, we’ll explore the most popular minoxidil products, including minoxidil foam, topical minoxidil, and the common minoxidil 5% solution. We’ll also discuss their effectiveness in promoting hair growth and combating hair loss.
By understanding how these products work, you'll be able to choose the right minoxidil concentration that suits your needs, whether you’re seeking an FDA approved solution or one that can help reduce shedding.
By the end of this guide, you'll have the knowledge to choose the minoxidil that's right for you in your journey to achieve fuller hair and better results.
Table of content
12 minoxidil brands, which minoxidil is best?
You should consult your doctor to discuss which concentration of minoxidil is suitable for you. You shall also discuss the possible drug interactions and minoxidil side effects if you taking any medications. Minoxidil has some known side effects after stopping, too. When in doubt, opt for minoxidil alternatives.
Here are our picks of the best minoxidils:
Best minoxidil in the UK: Regaine
The best rated minoxidil in the UK is none other than the famous Regaine (a derivation of Rogaine). Their foam applicator might come as difficult to use at first, but people typically get used to it. At £44 for 3 months, it's certainly not Kirkland price, but it's the best we can find online.
Best topical minoxidil brand: Rogaine
Rogaine is the brand name for minoxidil, a topical solution used to treat hair loss. It was first introduced in the 1980s as a treatment for high blood pressure, but it was found to have the side effect of promoting hair growth. Rogaine is available over the counter in 2% and 5% minoxidil solutions.
Best minoxidil for women: Equate
Equate is the Walmart brand of minoxidil. It is available in 2% and 5% minoxidil solutions. Equate Hair Regrowth Treatment also comes in the form of 5% topical aerosol foam that has easier scalp application. Remember to pick the purple container, which indicates that it's for women.
Best minoxidil for men: Kirkland
Kirkland Signature is the private label brand of minoxidil that Costco sells. It is available in 2% and 5% minoxidil solutions. The product also retails on Amazon. Kirkland Minoxidil topical solution comes with a child-resistant dropper applicator for easy and efficient application on the scalp. It comes at $17.99 for a 6-month supply, making it the cheapest on our list.
Best availability: Amazon Basic Care
The newest addition to the minoxidil industry is Amazon Basic Care Minoxidil Hair Regrowth Treatment. The product is unscented and clinically proven to regrow hair. Seemingly as it's on Amazon, it's the most available minoxidil for US consumers.
Best minoxidil for hair regrowth: Lipogaine
Lipogaine is a brand of minoxidil solution that contains 5% minoxidil and is available over the counter. It also has other ingredients that help with hair loss, such as biotin and saw palmetto. It also contains a proprietary herb blend that helps block DHT by inhibiting the enzyme 5α reductase. This works for crown hair thinning.
Best value: Kirkland Signature
Kirkland Signature is the private label brand of minoxidil that Costco sells. It is available in 2% and 5% minoxidil solutions. The product also retails on Amazon. Kirkland Minoxidil topical solution comes with a child-resistant dropper applicator for easy and efficient application on the scalp. It comes at $17.99 for a 6-month supply, making it the cheapest on our list.
Best oral minoxidil: DrFormulas Hairomega
DrFormulas Hairomega is a supplement containing 3% minoxidil and other ingredients that help with hair loss. It is available without a prescription.
Best spray applicator: Regenepure
Regenepure is a brand of minoxidil solution that contains 5% minoxidil and is available over the counter.
Best unscented: Nioxin
Nioxin is a line of hair care products that include shampoos, conditioners, and scalp treatments. It is said to help with hair loss and thinning hair.
Best minoxidil 5% brand: GoodSense
GoodSense is the Walmart brand of minoxidil. It is available in 2% and 5% minoxidil solutions. It's believed that this brand was discontinued and transitioned to their new brand, Equate.
Best for minoxidil and finasteride: Keeps
Keeps is a subscription service that provides minoxidil and finasteride treatments, and other hair loss treatments.
Best minoxidil alternative: Bio-Pilixin
Minoxidil, a common hair loss treatment, can cause side effects like scalp irritation and is not suitable for everyone. That's something we aims to destroy with Bio-Pilixin, a nature-inspired formula that doesn't have any harmful side effects.
1. Nature-Powered Formula
Leveraging the purity of Scandinavian botanicals, the Bio-Pilixin is designed to be kind to your scalp while effectively stimulating hair growth. This means you get the benefits of hair revitalization without the harsh chemicals.
2. Clinically Tested and Gentle
Our products are scientifically formulated to encourage significant hair growth. In fact, 97% of clinical test users experienced less hair loss.
They deliver excellent results but with a gentler touch, making it ideal for daily use without irritation.
3. Comprehensive Hair Health
Unlike minoxidil, which mainly targets hair growth, Scandinavian Biolabs' routine promotes overall hair health, providing strength, volume, and vitality to your hair. This is not to say it doesn't help you regrow hair - 73% of our clinical trial users had an increase in hair density.
4. Sustainable Choice
Committed to reducing our impact, we partnered up with CleanHub to remove ocean-bound plastic, ensuring you care for your hair while being mindful of the planet.
As your leading source for hair health information over the past 4 years, we never compromise on accuracy. When it comes to your health, you deserve information you can truly rely on - and earning your trust is our top priority.
Here's how Scandinavian Biolabs ensures every piece of content meets the highest standards of accuracy and integrity:
- Credentialed Experts: Our reviewers are actively practicing doctors and medical researchers
- Stringent Reviews: Content undergoes rigorous editing by subject specialists and review by a practicing doctor.
- Evidence-Based: We rely on well-established research from trusted scientific sources like peer-reviewed journals and health authorities.
- Full Transparency: Our editorial standards, writer credentials, reviewer credentials, correction process, and funding are all publicly documented.
- Independent Voice: While we do promote products, we operate in a vacuum to business operations. Our main goal is just an unwavering commitment to providing medically-sound guidance.
You can count on Scandinavian Biolabs to consistently deliver the trustworthy health information you deserve. Read our Editorial Standards.
What is minoxidil?
Minoxidil was initially developed as a treatment for high blood pressure as it is a potent peripheral vasodilator substance. However, researchers found that it had the interesting side effect of causing hair growth, so the FDA eventually approved it for use as a topical treatment for hair loss.
It is a topical treatment that has proven to be effective for both male pattern baldness and female pattern hair loss.
The topical minoxidil solution can be used in the form of either minoxidil solution or minoxidil foam. In contrast to minoxidil solution, minoxidil foam is a newer formulation that dries up quickly and does not cause excessive irritation of the scalp. The available dosage includes 2% topical minoxidil and 5% topical minoxidil.
How does minoxidil work?
Minoxidil is commonly used to treat androgenetic alopecia (also known as male pattern hair loss). By increasing blood flow to the scalp, minoxidil encourages hair growth and helps thicken existing hairs.
Additionally, minoxidil increases the size of blood vessels in the scalp, which helps deliver more oxygen and nutrients to the hair follicles. This supports the growth of healthier, thicker hairs. In addition, minoxidil has been shown to increase the length of the active phase of hair growth, resulting in longer, fuller hairs.
Minoxidil performs these functions by stimulating the potassium channels present in the hair follicles and in the vascular smooth muscle. In addition to increasing the length of the anagen phase of the hair growth cycle, it shortens the telogen phase which causes the hair follicle to progress into the anagen phase prematurely.
The action of minoxidil on the hair follicles is attributed to its active component known as minoxidil sulfate. The conversion of minoxidil to minoxidil sulfate is mediated by an enzyme present in the hair follicles. This enzyme is known as sulfotransferase.
Minoxidil is most effective when combined with another hair loss treatment, such as finasteride. Finasteride inhibits the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that shrinks hair follicles and leads to hair thinning. Combining these two treatments can maximize hair growth and achieve fuller, thicker hairs.
Foam vs solution: the differences
If you're like most people, the word "minoxidil" probably doesn't mean much to you. However, if you're struggling with hair loss, it's worth taking a closer look at this medication. Minoxidil comes in two forms: foam and solution. Both the formulations are applied directly to the scalp and effectively slow down hair loss and promote new hair growth.
However, there are some critical differences between the two products. Foam minoxidil is relatively light and easy to apply, and it dries quickly. Solution minoxidil is more liquid-y and can be a bit messier to apply. In terms of efficacy, there is evidence to suggest that solution minoxidil is more effective than foam minoxidil.
However, both products are generally well-tolerated and safe for most people. If you're considering using minoxidil for treating hair loss, talk to your doctor about which form is right for you. You shall also discuss whether to use 2% topical minoxidil or 5% topical minoxidil on your scalp.
Side effects of minoxidil
The oral form of liquid minoxidil is more likely to cause side effects, such as dizziness, lightheadedness, and drowsiness. In contrast, topical minoxidil is generally well tolerated among users. However, it can cause localized side effects including itching, redness, and scalp irritation.
In rare cases, minoxidil can cause more severe side effects, such as chest pain, irregular heartbeat, fainting, and swelling of the hands and feet. If you experience these side effects, you should immediately stop taking minoxidil and seek medical attention.
How to use minoxidil?
The topical form of minoxidil is applied to the scalp twice daily, while the oral form is taken as a pill once daily. Minoxidil stimulate hair growth and preventing further hair loss. It is most effective when combined with other hair loss treatments, such as finasteride.
Minoxidil is a safe and effective treatment for hair loss, but it can cause side effects in some people. The most common side effects include scalp irritation, dryness, and flaking. You should contact your doctor if you experience any of these side effects. Nevertheless, minoxidil is a valuable tool in the fight against hair loss, and it can help you keep your head above water.
How to get the best results from minoxidil?
Getting the best results from minoxidil requires a commitment to using it properly and consistently. Here are some tips for getting the most out of minoxidil for female pattern baldness, hair shedding, and receding hairline:
- Use it correctly and follow the instructions on the package
- Apply twice a day, every day, for best results
- Use it in combination with other hair growth products, such as finasteride, for maximum effect
- Be prepared to wait 3-6 months before you notice any hair growth results
- Consider supplementing minoxidil with lifestyle changes, like a healthy diet, exercise, and stress management
- Be patient—results can vary depending on the severity of your condition
These tips will help ensure that you get the best possible results from minoxidil. Remember, if you ever have any questions or concerns about your hair loss treatment, it’s important to seek professional medical advice. With the right approach, you can turn back the clock and enjoy a full head of hair.
When minoxidil may not be effective
While minoxidil is widely recognized as an effective hair loss treatment, there are certain scenarios where it may not yield the desired results. Understanding these factors can help manage expectations and identify when alternative solutions might be needed.
Individual response variability
Not everyone responds to minoxidil in the same way. Studies indicate that individual results can vary significantly based on factors such as genetics, scalp condition, and the severity of hair loss. While some users experience significant hair growth, others may see only minimal improvements or even continued shedding during the treatment phase.
Research has shown that approximately 62% of patients reported a decrease in hair loss areas after one year of using a 5% minoxidil solution, and 84.3% rated the treatment as effective to varying degrees. However, only about 15.9% found it "very effective," while 15.7% deemed it ineffective.
This variability highlights the importance of consulting a dermatologist to accurately diagnose the cause of hair loss and recommend the most appropriate growth treatment tailored to individual needs.
Types of hair loss resistant to minoxidil
Certain types of hair loss, such as scarring alopecia or advanced cases of androgenetic alopecia, may not respond well to topical minoxidil or minoxidil foam. These conditions often involve permanent damage to the hair follicles, making it difficult for any treatment to stimulate regrowth. Additionally, treating androgenetic alopecia may require a combination of therapies for the best results.
Duration of use and expectations
Many users stop treatment too soon, expecting fast results. However, hair growth treatments like minoxidil often take several months to show noticeable improvements. Initial shedding results are common and can be alarming, but they are usually a sign that the product is working. Stopping prematurely may negate any progress made.
Age and gender factors
Minoxidil 5% is often more effective in younger users and may yield better outcomes in men than in women due to biological differences in hair growth patterns. However, women's hair growth solutions, such as lower-strength minoxidil products, are also available and FDA approved for safety and efficacy. Older users or those with long-standing hair loss may see slower or less dramatic results.
Improper application techniques
Incorrect usage, such as failing to apply minoxidil foam to the scalp or using the wrong minoxidil concentration, can significantly impact the effectiveness of the treatment. It's crucial to follow the instructions closely, ensuring consistent application twice daily in the case of liquid twice day solutions or as directed by your physician.
Minoxidil for specific hair loss types
Minoxidil is a widely used treatment for various forms of hair loss. It is commonly applied to promote hair growth and reduce shedding in individuals experiencing conditions like androgenetic alopecia, alopecia areata, postpartum hair loss, and telogen effluvium. While minoxidil is known to be effective for some types of hair loss, its effectiveness can vary based on the underlying condition.
Minoxidil for androgenetic alopecia
Androgenetic alopecia (commonly referred to as male or female pattern baldness) is one of the most common types of hair loss, and minoxidil has proven to be highly effective for individuals dealing with this condition. Studies show that minoxidil helps stimulate hair growth by enhancing follicular activity, and many users see visible improvements in hair density and thickness over time.
FDA-approved for androgenetic alopecia, minoxidil 5% is typically the most recommended strength for optimal results. While effectiveness may vary, minoxidil foam and topical minoxidil are common forms that users find convenient and effective. Clinical trials have shown that minoxidil can slow hair shedding and promote hair regrowth, especially in the early stages of androgenetic alopecia.
Postpartum hair loss and minoxidil
Postpartum hair loss is a common concern for women after childbirth, typically due to hormonal fluctuations. In cases of postpartum hair loss, minoxidil may be helpful in speeding up hair regrowth and reducing the time spent in the shedding phase. However, results can be mixed, as some women experience a temporary recovery without treatment.
For those who seek faster results, minoxidil foam or topical minoxidil may be beneficial. While minoxidil is FDA approved for hair loss, it is important to consult with a dermatologist before using minoxidil postpartum, as it’s essential to ensure that the scalp is in optimal condition for treatment.
Minoxidil for alopecia areata
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that causes hair loss in patches. Minoxidil is often used in combination with other treatments to address the hair growth needs of those affected by this condition. However, its effectiveness in treating alopecia areata is generally less pronounced compared to androgenetic alopecia.
In studies, minoxidil has shown some ability to regrow hair in areas affected by alopecia areata, but the results are often less predictable, and long-term efficacy may vary. For those experiencing alopecia areata, minoxidil 5% is typically used, and combining it with other treatments like steroid injections might improve outcomes.
Telogen effluvium and minoxidil
Telogen effluvium is a condition where sudden or severe stress causes a large number of hairs to enter the shedding phase, leading to noticeable hair loss. Minoxidil can be an effective solution in cases of telogen effluvium, especially if used early in the shedding process to help promote faster hair growth. Since minoxidil is known to encourage hair regrowth by stimulating hair follicles, it is often recommended to shorten the recovery time after the shedding phase.
For telogen effluvium, users may experience significant improvement with topical minoxidil, as it helps rejuvenate the scalp and revitalize hair follicles. However, as with all forms of hair loss, individual responses to minoxidil may vary, and some people might not see the same level of success.
Alternative solutions for hair loss management
When it comes to managing hair loss, several alternative treatments are available in addition to minoxidil. These treatments include low-level laser therapy (LLLT), platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, herbal remedies, and even hair transplant surgery. Each option has its own mechanism of action, effectiveness, and potential side effects. In this section, we’ll discuss these alternatives and how they compare to minoxidil in terms of results and safety.
Low-level laser therapy (lllt)
Low-level laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses light to stimulate hair growth by increasing blood flow to the scalp. This treatment is FDA-approved for hair loss treatment and has been shown to help some individuals regain thicker, fuller hair. However, results can vary, and some people may experience only minimal hair growth compared to treatments like minoxidil foam. It is often used alongside other treatments for enhanced effects.
Platelet-rich plasma (prp) therapy
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy involves using a patient’s own blood, processed to concentrate platelets, and injecting it into the scalp to promote hair growth. This treatment works by stimulating scalp tissue and promoting cell regeneration. PRP therapy has been found effective for some individuals, though its results may not be as fast as minoxidil products, which are known for more rapid shedding results followed by hair regrowth. The cost and potential for side effects like swelling or discomfort are considerations when choosing PRP therapy.
Herbal remedies and natural treatments
For those looking for a more natural approach, herbal remedies like saw palmetto, ginseng, and essential oils are popular alternatives for hair loss treatment. While these remedies are generally considered safe, their effectiveness in promoting hair growth varies, and they often lack the FDA approval that provides added confidence in products like topical minoxidil. Though there is anecdotal evidence supporting the use of these treatments, scientific research on their long-term effectiveness remains limited.
Hair transplant surgery
For those experiencing advanced stages of hair loss, hair transplant surgery can provide a permanent solution by redistributing hair follicles from thicker areas of the scalp to areas with thinning or no hair. Unlike topical treatments like minoxidil, which require ongoing application, hair transplant surgery offers long-lasting results but comes with higher costs and recovery time. Side effects may include infection or scarring, which need to be considered when opting for this type of solution.
Lifestyle modifications for hair health
In addition to medical treatments, making certain lifestyle modifications can support overall hair health. Ensuring adequate nutrition, reducing stress, and avoiding damaging hair treatments can help prevent further hair loss. These changes can be used in combination with treatments like minoxidil foam to achieve better results. However, they are typically not as effective as targeted hair growth treatments in reversing hair thinning caused by genetic factors.
Read more:
- Why You Should & Shouldn't Use Minoxidil After Hair Transplant?
- Nanoxidil vs Minoxidil: Does Newer Equal Better?
- Minoxidil For Traction Alopecia: Why Shouldn't You?
References
Suchonwanit, P., Thammarucha, S., & Leerunyakul, K. (2019). Minoxidil and its use in hair disorders: a review. Drug Design, Development and Therapy, Volume 13, 2777–2786. https://doi.org/10.2147/dddt.s214907
Badri T, Nessel TA, Kumar D D. Minoxidil. [Updated 2021 Dec 19]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482378/
