A Review On Minoxidil: A Potent Hair Growth Agent

October 2025 in “ International Journal of Advanced Research in Science Communication and Technology ”

Komal Kale, Shruti Tanpure, Prajwal Ramdas Bhujbal -, Sarthak Narode, Jayashri Kasar

minoxidil androgenetic alopecia anagen phase dermal papilla cells VEGF hair density serum-based formulations scalp irritation hair serums Rogaine

TLDR Minoxidil effectively promotes hair growth, especially in a 5% solution, but requires continuous use.

Minoxidil, initially an antihypertensive drug, is now widely used for treating androgenetic alopecia due to its hair growth-promoting side effect. Although its exact mechanism is not fully understood, it is thought to enhance blood flow to hair follicles, prolong the anagen phase, stimulate dermal papilla cells, and upregulate VEGF. Clinical trials indicate that both 2% and 5% minoxidil solutions significantly increase hair density, with the 5% solution being more effective. Serum-based formulations improve scalp penetration and reduce irritation, but continuous use is necessary to maintain results, and some users may experience scalp irritation. Combining synthetic and herbal ingredients in hair serums is a promising strategy for managing hair loss and enhancing hair health.

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Research cited in this study

13 / 13 results

research Minoxidil Use in Dermatology, Side Effects, and Recent Patents

152 citations , April 2012 in “Recent Patents on Inflammation & Allergy Drug Discovery”

Minoxidil treats hair loss, promotes growth, has side effects, and has recent patents.

research Human Hair Follicles Contain Two Forms of ATP-Sensitive Potassium Channels, Only One Sensitive to Minoxidil

102 citations , February 2008 in “The FASEB Journal”

One minoxidil-sensitive potassium channel exists in human hair follicles.

research Minoxidil: Mechanisms of Action on Hair Growth

397 citations , February 2004 in “British Journal of Dermatology”

Minoxidil boosts hair growth by opening potassium channels and increasing cell activity.

A Randomized Clinical Trial of 5% Topical Minoxidil Versus 2% Topical Minoxidil and Placebo in the Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia in Men

research A Randomized Clinical Trial of 5% Topical Minoxidil Versus 2% Topical Minoxidil and Placebo in the Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia in Men

269 citations , August 2002 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology”

5% minoxidil works better for hair growth and density, with minor irritation.

Changes in Hair Weight and Hair Count in Men with Androgenetic Alopecia After Application of 5% and 2% Topical Minoxidil, Placebo, or No Treatment

research Changes in Hair Weight and Hair Count in Men with Androgenetic Alopecia After Application of 5% and 2% Topical Minoxidil, Placebo, or No Treatment

115 citations , November 1999 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology”

Minoxidil increases hair weight and count temporarily in men with hair loss.

research Sulfation of Minoxidil by Multiple Human Cytosolic Sulfotransferases

59 citations , February 1998 in “Chemico-Biological Interactions”

Minoxidil breakdown varies by enzymes, affecting hair loss treatment effectiveness.

research Relative Influence of Ethanol and Propylene Glycol Cosolvents on Deposition of Minoxidil into the Skin

34 citations , October 1994 in “Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences”

Ethanol over 50% helps minoxidil absorb better into skin.

research Minoxidil

24 citations , January 1993 in “Dermatologic Clinics”

Minoxidil effectively treats hair loss, works better for women, and requires consistent use.

research Relationship Between Contact Time of Applied Dose and Percutaneous Absorption of Minoxidil From a Topical Solution

25 citations , June 1990 in “Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences”

Longer contact time increases minoxidil absorption, but doesn't affect metabolism.

research The Effect of Topical Minoxidil on Hair Follicular Cycles of Rats

53 citations , May 1990 in “Journal of Dermatology”

Minoxidil speeds up hair growth in rats without prolonging growth phase.

research Minoxidil Stimulates Mouse Vibrissae Follicles in Organ Culture

121 citations , March 1989 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology”

Minoxidil can help grow hair in mice by making cells grow and improving hair quality. More research needed.

research Action of Topical Minoxidil in the Bald Stump-Tailed Macaque

78 citations , March 1987 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology”

Minoxidil promotes hair growth but stops working when discontinued.

research Minoxidil: A Review of Its Pharmacological Properties and Therapeutic Use

96 citations , October 1981 in “Drugs”

Minoxidil effectively treats severe hypertension but may cause side effects, so careful monitoring is needed.

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