Some people get benefit from minoxidil, others don't. It seems to work better in women than in men. Minoxidil is much better at helping people retain and improve the hair they have than in growing new hair. In people with fine hair, the combination of regrowth plus "deminiaturization" of the existing hair can provide an acceptable cosmetic result about 40-50% of the time.
Common cutaneous adverse reactions include; erythema, scaling, pruritus, dermatitis, itching or skin rash. Sunburn should be avoided while using minoxidil as some dermatologists have suggested minoxidil exacerbates the tissue damage.
Rare events include; acne at site of application, burning of the scalp, increased hair loss, inflammation or soreness at root of hair, reddened skin, swelling of the face, and an intolerance to tobacco.
Usually, topical minoxidil will only act within the skin, but sometimes minoxidil will enter the blood stream and in doing so could have systemic effects. Signs and symptoms of too much medicine being absorbed into the body include:
Blurred vision or other changes in vision, chest pain, decrease of sexual ability or desire, fast or irregular heartbeat, flushing, headache, lightheadedness, numbness or tingling of hands, feet, or face, swelling of face, hands, feet, or lower legs, and rapid weight gain.
Some women (and very rarely some men) may experience hair growth in areas where minoxidil was not applied. This excess hair growth can occur anywhere on the body but most typically it occurs on the face (cheeks and forehead), or on the arms. The excess hair growth is fully reversible if treatment is discontinued once the side effect is noted.
There have been no reports of adverse action of minoxidil in pregnant women. However, minoxidil has been found in the breast milk of minoxidil users. Generally dermatologists recommend pregnant women should not use minoxidil.
Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some patients. If you notice any such effects, consult with your doctor immediately.
