Minoxidil, also known in the U.S. by its branded name, Rogaine, is in some cases able to stimulate hair growth and counteract male pattern baldness at the scalp. Men have amassed in online communities and are sharing DIY stories about how minoxidil helped break the peach fuzz cycle.
What are the side effects of minoxidil?
The experts remind us that the application of minoxidil is an important yet, often incorrectly executed piece of the puzzle. The results can lead to a, well, hairy situation. Growing too much hair and growing hair where it shouldn’t be, is not the look. Watch getting it on your nose, even accidentally. “Some men in particular have small follicles that may be activated and can lead to unwanted growth on the nose tip,” says Ryan Turner, MD, of Turner Dermatology. Go light on the application and consider foam-based formulas for more control and less drip during application. It’s also important to keep the face, beard area and beard hair follicles moisturized, since common preparations of minoxidil are alcohol-based.
How good is Rogaine, really?
“So, as a Black man with curly, thick hair, what results can I, and men like me, expect from minoxidil?”
Dr. Turner confirms, “Men of color with more course, thicker hairs that curl inward may see slight increase of ingrowing hair follicles, which can lead to pseudofolliculitis barbae.” But many men have experienced pseudofolliculitis without even using minoxidil.
