A Case of Allergic Contact Dermatitis Due to Topical Minoxidil

In 2003, a case study was conducted on a 34-year-old male who developed allergic contact dermatitis after using a topical minoxidil solution for 7 days to treat androgenic alopecia. Minoxidil, a systemic antihypertensive agent, has been shown to stimulate hair growth when applied topically. The solution used by the patient contained 5% minoxidil, propylene glycol, alcohol, and water. While generally well-tolerated, there have been reports of allergic contact dermatitis due to minoxidil solution. The patient's patch test showed positive reactions to 1%, 2%, and 5% minoxidil solution, confirming the allergic reaction. The study suggested that when allergic contact dermatitis to minoxidil solution is suspected, an evaluation of the solution's ingredients should be performed.