Minoxidil 101: Everything You Need to Know About Generic Rogaine®

If you’re looking for a straightforward, FDA-approved, accessible solution, minoxidil may be the right hair loss solution for you. But before you place that first order, read on to learn more about this topical hair loss treatment. 

Here at Bosley, we offer a variety of clinically proven, affordable solutions that treat hair loss and promote hair growth, including minoxidil or generic Rogaine. But our primary goal is to find the solution that is right for you. Schedule a free consultation with a hair restoration expert for a personalized hair analysis and custom treatment plan.

What Is Minoxidil and How Does it Work?

Minoxidil is the generic name for the active ingredient in Rogaine. This highly effective, over-the-counter hair loss treatment has been clinically proven to stimulate hair growth in men and women.

So, how does minoxidil work? When applied topically, minoxidil directly stimulates the scalp and follicles, delivering essential nutrients to the hair follicles. This process can lead to denser, healthier hair and can help prevent future hair loss. 

Minoxidil also works by stimulating and prolonging the hair’s natural growth phase, which can increase the diameter of existing hair follicles and inhibit additional hair loss.

Topical minoxidil is available over-the-counter. Minoxidil is also available as a oral medication by prescription via BosleyRx, either by itself or as a combination pill with spironolactone or finasteride.

Can Minoxidil Really Slow Hair Loss?

Yes! Minoxidil results are typically visible within 3-4 months.

Minoxidil is particularly effective for men under 40 that have been balding for less than five years because it stimulates growth in miniaturizing follicles. 

Numerous clinical studies show that minoxidil can reduce hair loss and even promote new hair growth in some cases. German dermatologists conducted a one-year study with 984 men with male pattern baldness. These researchers found that using a 5% minoxidil topical solution reduced hair loss during washing by 50%, and 62% of participants noticed a reduction in overall hair loss. 

Other studies show that supplementing minoxidil with finasteride enhances treatment effectiveness in men even more.

Can Women Use Minoxidil?

Yes, minoxidil is FDA-cleared for female use. Bosley offers the following minoxidil treatments specially formulated for women: 

• 2% topical minoxidil for women
• 5% topical minoxidil for women
• a combo pill of minoxidil and spironolactone
• a minoxidil + spironolactone serum

Related: Hair Loss Medications for Women

Are There Any Side Effects of Minoxidil?

Minoxidil side effects are generally short-term, minor, and happen in the area where it’s applied. The most common side effects are initial hair shedding, scalp irritation, and itchiness. In some cases, unwanted hair growth can occur in other areas. 

In very rare cases, topical minoxidil may cause systemic side effects, including chest pain, a rapid heartbeat, fainting, or dizziness. These systemic side effects are slightly more likely with oral minoxidil, but still very rare.

How Do I Use Minoxidil?

If you are utilizing a topical minoxidil solution, massage your solution directly into the scalp two times per day for optimal results.

Men may use the 5% minoxidil foam twice a day while women should only apply once a day.

Applying minoxidil at least two hours before bedtime allows the scalp to dry fully, which can help prevent minoxidil from being spread to another part of your body as you sleep.

Prescription oral minoxidil should be taken as directed as a once-daily pill.

Will Minoxidil Stain My Clothing?

Yes, topical minoxidil can stain clothing. If staining is a major concern for you, consider switching to oral minoxidil or altering your morning routine. Apply minoxidil early and let it dry fully before getting dressed to keep your favorite ballcap or shirt stain-free.

Oral minoxidil does not stain clothing.

Do I Need to Do Anything Special While Washing and Drying My Hair?

Keep that morning routine the way it is—wash and towel off your hair as you normally would. Once you’ve hopped out of the shower, you can apply topical minoxidil while your hair is damp, but remember that minoxidil should never be applied while hair is soaking wet.

Can I Use a Hair Dryer with Minoxidil?

Absolutely! For best results, we recommend waiting 20-30 minutes after application, then using your hair dryer’s lowest speed setting and the cold shot button (if your model has one). Point the hair dryer at your hair itself rather than your scalp.

Can I Keep Using My Favorite Styling Products?

We get it—once you find a styling product that gets your hair looking just right, you don’t want to give it up. The good news is that minoxidil works with most styling products. The important thing is to make sure the product is applied to the hair and not your scalp. Be sure to apply topical minoxidil before your styling products. And, remember, you cannot wet your hair for 4 hours after applying minoxidil.

No need to switch up your styling routine if using oral minoxidil.

How Long Do I Need to Use Minoxidil?

Minoxidil must be used continuously even after you observe the desired results. If you quit applying minoxidil, hair loss and thinning will return to where you would have been if you had not been using the medication within three months.

Do I Need a Prescription for Minoxidil?

Topical minoxidil doesn’t require a prescription. The FDA has approved minoxidil as an over-the-counter medication, meaning it is safe and effective when you follow the directions on the label and as directed by your health care professional. Order minoxidil online here.

Oral minoxidil does require a prescription. If you’re considering oral minoxidil, schedule a free hair loss consultation here or visit BosleyRx.com for an evaluation with a medical professional. 

Related: What Hair Loss Medication Do I Need?: All About Finasteride (Propecia), Minoxidil (Rogaine), + More

Bosley’s Personalized Hair Loss Solutions – Minoxidil & More

Still not sure which hair loss solution is best for you? Schedule a free hair loss consultation to learn about Bosley’s wide array of hair loss solutions, including minoxidil. A Bosley hair loss expert will give you a personalized hair and scalp analysis, answer any questions you may have, and create a custom hair restoration plan for your needs and budget. 

Schedule your consultation today.