TLDR Minoxidil may improve nail growth and appearance.
This systematic review evaluates the potential of minoxidil, a common hair loss treatment, as a remedy for onychodystrophy, a condition affecting nail growth and appearance. The review included 5 studies with a total of 187 patients, examining various concentrations and forms of minoxidil. Topical 5% minoxidil showed significant improvements in nail growth compared to oral biotin, while oral minoxidil improved nail appearance, growth, and strength in a notable percentage of patients. The studies suggest that minoxidil may enhance nail health by increasing endothelial growth factors and improving blood flow to the nail matrix. Although the findings are promising, further research is needed to determine the best dosing and administration strategies.
March 2025 in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology” Systemic minoxidil improves hair density in women with female pattern hair loss over time.
February 2024 in “Cosmoderma” Low-dose oral minoxidil can help treat male and female pattern hair loss, especially in those who can't use topical treatments or have heart health issues.
February 2020 in “The Pharmaceutical Society of Japan” 
April 2018 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology” Minoxidil didn't significantly increase hair growth in minipigs.
8 citations
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March 2015 in “PubMed” 5% minoxidil foam effectively treats female hair loss.
January 2007 in “Strait Pharmaceutical Journal” 
1 citations
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September 2002 in “PubMed” Minoxidil helps stimulate hair growth and reduce hair loss in women with androgenic alopecia.
370 citations
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September 1999 in “The New England Journal of Medicine” Finasteride and minoxidil are effective for hair loss, but continued research is needed for better treatments.
127 citations
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July 1996 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” Minoxidil shortens baldness from chemotherapy by 50.2 days without significant side effects.
