Minoxidil
Regrowth
Minoxidil is applied to the scalp to stimulate hair growth by increasing blood flow to areas experiencing miniaturization of hair. Minoxidil sulfate is the agent responsible for hair growth. Minoxidil is converted to minoxidil sulfate in either the scalp or liver depending on whether topical or oral use respectively. The diameter of the hair shaft increases. Vellus hair also increases in diameter size. Minoxidil will not stop hair loss. Overall there is the same quantity of hair follicles.
Your hair will look thicker and healthier. Multiple hair follicles will move from resting to growth phase simultaneously. The growth phase of hair is lengthened. There may be an initial shedding as old hair is removed while new grows to replace it. Results will appear in about 5 months.
Ongoing treatment commitment
If minoxidil is used topically, the hair must be prepared. This process requires effort as a routine must be followed. The hairstyles you can choose from are limited since hair must be cut short to allow minoxidil to reach the scalp for maximum effect. The scalp must be dry and clean before applying minoxidil. Minoxidil must stay on the scalp for 1 to 2 hours meanwhile you must avoid anything that can disturb the substance. Change in scalp texture such as reddening must be tolerated. Stopping the treatment will reverse the hair improvements.
Oral minoxidil can be used instead to bypass the disadvantageous commitments from topical minoxidil. Oral minoxidil will stimulate hair growth throughout your whole body. You may need to shave other parts of the body except the head.
Complications
Minoxidil loses efficacy over time and you may need additional treatment to stop hair loss. The hair improvements vary depending on the user. Topical minoxidil can cause acne at site of application. A feeling of burning and soreness at the root of hair.
Whereas consequences of using oral minoxidil are systematic. Hair growth is throughout the body including target areas. Headaches, lower blood pressure and fast heart rate can occur.
Reversible
Stopping minoxidil will reverse the side effects and also hair improvements. It will take about 12 hours for topical minoxidil washout of your body. Oral minoxidil will take about 72 hours to washout.
Cost
Topical and oral minoxidil cost between £10 to £40. Minoxidil must be used routinely otherwise hair improvements will reverse. You will need additional minoxidil which will cost more over time.