Does Minoxidil Work For Beard Growth?

Minoxidil is an FDA approved, over the counter drug for treating certain types of hair loss in both men and women. While it is not fully understood how Minoxidil promotes hair growth, we do know that when it is used on the scalp, the hair growth is not permanent and growth is lost after you stop taking Minoxidil. It is important to note that Minoxidil does not create new hair follicles. It can awaken follicles that are dormant but it will not cause your body to create new hair follicles.

While the effects of Minox on the scalp and hair growth are well documented, until recently, there have been no formal medical studies addressing minox and beard growth. We’ve reviewed the study and consulted several doctors about the impact of Minoxidil and what we learned is a bit surprising...

No researchers or scientists have concluded how Minoxidil deals with hair loss problems. And are only left with the facts to consider as a potential reason for hair growth.

• The application of Rogaine will activate the potassium channels near the beard area and stimulate the beard hair follicles circulation.

• Minoxidil mounts up the prostaglandin E2 levels that are responsible for beard growth via various mechanisms.

• Minoxidil activates inactive hair follicles and sends them to the Anagen phase.

• After applying Minoxidil to the face, the Anagen phase lasts longer than usual, giving more time for the hair to grow.

• Using Rogaine regularly could generate new blood vessels as well.

It was all about the facial hair, which is not the same as scalp hair. It would be an entirely different cycle and years for the head hair to grow. As you know, Minoxidil works as a vasodilator that dilates the blood vessels, stimulating hair follicles, so it can feed the hair during the Anagen stage.

Due to this, you may witness your mane reaching the telogen phase slowly and a decrease in hair fall as well. It results in the beard looking fuller, thicker, and duskier. To some extent, the wide blood vessels found on the face also contribute to promoting hair growth. Contrary to facial hair, scalp hair takes time as it tends to have narrower blood vessels.

Previously, Minoxidil was effective against growing hair on the scalp, but later on, a few researchers from Thailand planned to test the ingredient (3% Minoxidil) on the face as well. The 4-months of research on 48 volunteers showed positive results. After that, it was official that rogaine for facial hair growth is effective and safe to use.

The results were in favor, but the mechanism was still unclear. However, the 3% Minoxidil solution is enough for beard enhancement.

Does Minoxidil transition vellus hairs into terminal hairs?

While many bloggers say yes, there are no medical studies supporting this claim. We do know that it makes non-terminal hairs appear darker and stronger which could lead some to believe they now have terminal hairs.

What causes vellus hairs to transition into terminal hairs?

Hormones. This transition begins at puberty but it is not instantaneous. Hairs are still transitioning well into your early 30s. Minoxidil is not a hormone. It is very possible that some of the new, thicker non-terminal hairs naturally transition into terminal hairs during treatment leaving some men to think that minoxidil caused the transition when in reality it was the beard’s natural progression. If you’d like to learn more about the beard growth cycle, check out this blog.

Is minoxidil safe to use on the beard?

According to the study, the researchers believe that it is safe to use minoxidil for beard enhancement. That being said, there are known side effects (a common side effect being dry, flaky skin which can easily be addressed with a specialized moisturizer) and you should consult your doctor before starting minoxidil.

Will my minoxidil beard gains last?

We know that when treatment is stopped for baldness, the gains are lost. To date, there is no scientific research showing that minoxidil beards will last indefinitely after treatment is stopped.

The reality is that beards take time. Most men don’t reach their full beard potential until their mid-30s. Minoxidil is an appealing option for guys looking to grow a fuller beard. Before starting a minoxidil regimen, it is important to consult a medical professional. There can be side effects and there are still many unknowns about how minox works in regards to beard growth. If you’re under the age of 20 and considering using minoxidil/Rogaine for beard growth, I’d wait.