TLDR Topical minoxidil may help hair growth by improving blood flow to hair follicles.
The document discussed the effects of topical minoxidil on scalp hair and its potential mechanism involving vasodilation. It was observed that minoxidil, when applied topically, could promote hair growth, possibly due to its ability to dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow to hair follicles. This vasodilatory effect was hypothesized to enhance nutrient delivery and waste removal, thereby stimulating hair growth. The study provided early evidence supporting the use of minoxidil as a treatment for hair loss, although the exact biological mechanisms were not fully understood at the time.
189 citations
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May 1991 in “Medical Entomology and Zoology” 
25 citations
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November 1987 in “British Journal of Dermatology” Minoxidil didn't increase scalp blood flow for hair growth, but hexyl nicotinate did.
137 citations
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May 1984 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology” Minoxidil increases blood flow in balding scalps, possibly reversing hair loss.
August 2023 in “Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology” Some plants like spinach, broccoli, and matcha may boost the effectiveness of the hair growth drug minoxidil.
8 citations
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April 2019 in “Dermatologic Therapy” Tretinoin boosts minoxidil's effect on hair loss by increasing enzyme activity.
5 citations
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January 2018 in “Italian journal of dermatology and venereology” Minoxidil effectively stimulates hair growth in androgenetic alopecia.
14 citations
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January 2015 in “Skin appendage disorders” Minoxidil treatment for hair loss can cause scalp allergy and severe hair loss.
269 citations
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August 2002 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” 5% minoxidil works better for hair growth and density, with minor irritation.
54 citations
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March 1987 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” 3% topical minoxidil effectively treats extensive alopecia areata with few side effects.
