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Minoxidil is a medication that is sometimes recommended to patients after undergoing an FUE hair transplant. There is strong evidence to suggest that it can help with healthy hair regrowth, resulting in a more successful hair transplant. While we recommend using it, it is ultimately your decision if you decide to use it. Below is more detailed information on exactly what minoxidil is, why you should use it, when you should use it and its possible side effects.

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What is Minoxidil?

Minoxidil (or Regaine as it is commonly known) is a form of medication that is used to treat male and female pattern baldness.

When used to treat pattern baldness, it is usually prescribed as a topical cream or spray. It can help to increase the growth of existing hair follicles while reducing further hair loss.

Should I use Minoxidil after a hair transplant?

There is evidence to suggest that minoxidil is effective at reducing hair loss after a hair transplant.

Overall, using minoxidil could be beneficial for your transplanted and non-transplanted hair. That said, you do not have to take it if you would prefer not to. It is always worth talking to one of our surgeons about dosages as there are different strengths of minoxidil available. Female patients tend to be prescribed a lower strength than male patients.

When can I start minoxidil after my hair transplant?

We typically recommended that you start using minoxidil 3 weeks after the hair transplant. It is best to avoid all products before your after-care period is complete whilst it is still healing.

How long you continue to use this product is up to you. You may use minoxidil on an ongoing permanent basis – this can be beneficial for preserving existing hair also.

Where should I apply Minoxidl after my transplant?

After a hair transplant, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s guidance on where and how to apply minoxidil. Generally, minoxidil can be applied to both the transplanted area and the areas of the scalp experiencing thinning or hair los

Are there any side effects to using Minoxidil?

Most people don’t experience any side effects when using minoxidil. However, if you do then stop using the product and the symptoms will typically clear up.

Below are just some of the side effects you could experience (they are all rare):

  • Itching or skin rash
  • Acne at site of application
  • Increased hair loss (some people experience this initially, but in the long run may experience less hair loss than is average)
  • Inflammation and swelling

If you experience any of these side effects, you should consult your doctor immediately.

What will happen if I don’t use minoxidil after hair transplant?

Using minoxidil isn’t a requirement of a successful hair transplant. Your hair growth will still go through the usual hair transplant stages as normal. Minoxidil is likely to simply reduce hair loss after the transplant.

Are there any other medical products that I should use?

Other products such as finasteride – this is an oral medicine that can similarly prevent further hair loss and boost the strength of your hair.

It’s also possible to take over-the-counter supplements such as biotin and multivitamins.

We provide hair transplants forr men and women. Click here to find out more about hair transplants for women and eyebrow transplants.