Is Oral Minoxidil Better Than Topical?

Minoxidil has been used to treat hair loss for decades. Initially trialled for high blood pressure, a noticeable side effect of the drug was increased hair growth. This discovery sparked further research, leading to minoxidil being repurposed for treating hair loss in both men and women.

The effectiveness of minoxidil in promoting hair growth is well-established, supported by numerous studies and patient testimonials. Although the exact mechanism by which minoxidil encourages hair growth remains unclear, it is believed to work by widening blood vessels and improving blood flow to hair follicles. This enhanced circulation delivers more nutrients and oxygen to the hair follicles, stimulating growth and potentially slowing hair loss.

Minoxidil is available in two forms: topical and oral. The topical form of minoxidil involves direct application to the scalp, using either a solution or foam applied specifically to the areas where hair growth is desired. The oral form of minoxidil consists of minoxidil tablets that are swallowed.

Is Oral Minoxidil Better Than Topical?

Both forms have demonstrated similar effectiveness in reducing hair shedding and promoting growth. While they contain the same active ingredient, minoxidil, there are key considerations to keep in mind when deciding which form is most suitable for you. Below are some pros and cons of each form to help guide your decision.

Oral Minoxidil: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Convenience: Many patients prefer the oral form for its ease of use, eliminating the need to apply liquid minoxidil, which can be time-consuming and messy.
• Coverage: Some individuals worry about adequately covering all areas of the scalp with the topical form and may choose the tablet to avoid this uncertainty.
• Alternative Treatment: Oral minoxidil can be an option for those who have seen little to no success with the topical form after consistently using it for six to eight months.

Cons:

• Systemic Side Effects: Although both forms of minoxidil are generally safe and well-tolerated, some studies indicate that patients taking oral minoxidil report more off-target effects than those using the topical form. This is due to the systemic absorption of oral minoxidil, which can increase the likelihood of side effects.
• Unwanted Hair Growth: One notable side effect of taking oral minoxidil is hair growth in areas other than the scalp, which can be a pro or con depending on personal needs.

Topical Minoxidil: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Accessibility: Topical minoxidil is easier to obtain, as it can be purchased over the counter without a prescription, unlike oral minoxidil. It is also preferred by those concerned about potential side effects from the oral form.

Cons:

• Application Challenges: Some users find the topical form inconvenient and time-consuming to apply.
• Local Irritation: While the topical form generally has fewer systemic side effects, it may cause local irritation at the application site.

Conclusion

Both oral and topical minoxidil are safe and well-tolerated by most people, with strong evidence supporting their effectiveness in treating hair loss. The choice between the two will depend on personal preferences and circumstances. If you’re concerned about potential side effects from the oral form and prefer more control over where minoxidil is applied, the topical option may be more suitable. Conversely, if you find the application of the solution or foam twice daily to be messy and inconvenient, the oral form may be a better fit.

We recommend consulting a healthcare professional to determine the best option for you.

Important Note: While studies document the success of both forms of minoxidil, only topical minoxidil has been approved by the MHRA for the treatment of hair loss. This means that oral minoxidil is prescribed off-label, indicating that it is being used for a purpose for which it is not officially licensed.