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QUESTION: Does topical minoxidil work for women?

ANSWER: Yes, topical minoxidil potentially can help women who have a certain type of hair loss called androgenic alopecia, the type of hair loss that occurs with aging. Minoxidil is thought to stimulate hair growth by increasing the blood supply that nourishes the hair follicles. It may take four to eight months to see results, and if treatment with minoxidil is stopped, the scalp will revert to its previous state of hair loss.

  SEPTEMBER 2006    MARCH 2007

The results that can be seen with minoxidil vary from person to person. Side effects include unwanted facial hair growth and scalp irritation. Hives (itching) and swelling occasionally occur. Eye irritation can occur if the solution gets in the eyes. Excessive use of topical minoxidil can result in a drop in blood pressure.

Scientists are studying why hair grows and what signals the body sends to hair follicles to make hair grow.

If your hair is thinning, treat it gently. Avoid hairstyles with braids or other styles that result in hair pulled tightly, since this causes stress on the follicles. Avoid scratching your scalp or twirling your hair. If your scalp is itchy, use a medicated shampoo. See a dermatologist if this problem does not resolve.

There are many reasons for hair loss other than aging, including certain medications, illness, stress and some disease states. For example, certain thyroid conditions can result in hair loss. Certain scalp infections also can result in hair loss.

Do you have Hair Loss Problems, read our Hair Loss Help