Minoxidil 5% Foam
- Topical treatment for pattern hair loss
- Applied directly to the scalp
- Helps stimulate and maintain hair growth
- UK-licensed hair loss treatment
Minoxidil 5% Foam is a topical treatment for pattern hair loss. It is applied directly to the scalp and works by helping to stimulate hair follicles and support hair growth. With regular use, minoxidil can help encourage new growth and maintain existing hair. Results take time, and continued treatment is needed to maintain the benefit.
Order by 2pm for discreet next-day delivery, once your consultation is approved.
UK licensed medication
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This page is written for general information. It does not replace advice from your own prescriber or GP, and it is not a recommendation that this medicine is right for you.
How do I use minoxidil?
Minoxidil 5% Foam is applied directly to a clean, dry scalp. The amount and how often you use it depends on whether you’re using the men’s or women’s product.
For men: Apply half a capful to the affected areas twice a day, leaving around 12 hours between applications. Do not use more than twice daily.
For women: Apply half a capful to the affected areas once a day. Do not use more than once daily.
Massage the foam gently into the affected areas of the scalp and wash your hands after applying it. Allow it to dry completely before going to bed. Using more than recommended won’t make it work faster or improve your results. Always follow the directions for the specific product supplied to you.
What side effects should I know about?
Like all medicines, minoxidil can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Possible side effects include headache, itching, skin irritation or rash, and unwanted hair growth outside the scalp. Some people may also notice temporary increased hair shedding when they first start treatment.
Stop using minoxidil and speak to a healthcare professional if you develop chest pain, a fast heartbeat, dizziness or faintness, sudden unexplained weight gain, or swelling of the hands or feet. For a full list of possible side effects, read the Patient Information Leaflet supplied with your treatment.
Is minoxidil safe for me?
Minoxidil isn’t suitable for everyone. It should only be used on a healthy, normal scalp and isn’t suitable if your hair loss is sudden, patchy, unexplained or caused by another medical condition. Tell us about any medical conditions, scalp problems and medicines you use during your assessment, particularly if you have a heart or blood pressure condition. Minoxidil should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Only use the product intended for you and follow the directions provided with your treatment.
Minoxidil 5% Foam questions, answered
How long does Minoxidil take to work?
Hair growth takes time. You’ll usually need to use it consistently for several months before you can properly judge the results. Taking photos every few months in similar lighting can make changes easier to notice.
Can both men and women use Minoxidil 5% Foam?
Yes, but the licensed products and directions are different. The men’s 5% foam is usually applied twice daily, while the women’s 5% foam is applied once daily. Make sure you follow the instructions for the specific product supplied to you.
How effective is Minoxidil for hair loss?
It can help stimulate hair growth and slow further hair loss in people with pattern hair loss, but results vary. Some people respond better than others, and it works best when used consistently over time.
Will Minoxidil regrow all of my hair?
Minoxidil can help improve hair growth and density, but results vary from person to person and complete regrowth can’t be guaranteed. How well it works can depend on factors such as your pattern of hair loss and how long you’ve had it.
Can I use Minoxidil with Finasteride?
For men, potentially. They work in different ways, and some men may use both as part of their hair loss treatment. Women should not take Finasteride. For women, Minoxidil may be suitable depending on their individual circumstances. We’ll check which treatment is appropriate for you during your assessment.
Why am I shedding more hair after starting treatment?
A temporary increase in shedding can happen during the first few weeks. This can occur as older hairs are shed while the hair-growth cycle changes. It should settle with continued use. If the shedding is severe, persists or worries you, speak to a healthcare professional.
What happens if I stop using it?
The benefits generally only last while you continue treatment. If you stop, newly grown or maintained hair may gradually be lost and your hair loss is likely to start progressing again.
Can I use hair products after applying the foam?
Yes, but let the foam dry completely first. If you use styling products, apply your minoxidil to the scalp first and allow it to dry before using them.
Can I get Minoxidil through PillSuite?
Yes, if it’s suitable for you. You’ll complete a private online assessment so we can check your hair loss, health and any medicines you use before treatment is supplied.
Further information
Always read the information supplied with your medicine.
Why go with PillSuite
A pharmacy, not a marketplace.
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A named UK prescriber
Every consultation is reviewed by a GPhC-registered independent prescriber before anything is dispensed.
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Licensed medicines only
UK-licensed treatments dispensed by our own registered pharmacy, never sourced through a third party.
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Support that continues
Dose guidance, check-ins and pharmacist support for as long as you are on treatment.
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Built around your answers
Your plan follows your consultation and medical history, and is adjusted when they change.
Ready to find out if Minoxidil could be right for you?
The consultation takes about three minutes. A UK-registered prescriber reviews your answers, and you are only charged if treatment is approved.
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