Minoxidil is a highly effective treatment licensed in the UK and US for male pattern baldness, and also works for various other types of alopecia [1]. In its topical form, it is commonly used as a solution you can apply to your scalp to slow hair loss and stimulate hair growth. In fact, around three quarters of hair transplant specialists recommend topical minoxidil to their patients [2].
Minoxidil’s main action, both in oral and topical forms, is to open up the blood vessels by acting on potassium channels of vascular muscle cells, stimulating blood flow and feeding your hair follicles with essential nutrients [1,3].
But does topical minoxidil lower blood pressure too? In some cases it can, but it is unlikely to, compared to oral minoxidil.
In this article, you’ll learn:
- If topical minoxidil affects your blood pressure and heart.
- The side effects of topical minoxidil.
- Our recommendation for taking topical minoxidil.
Can topical minoxidil lower blood pressure?
Research has shown that hypotension, or low blood pressure, is a rare occurrence in those who take topical minoxidil [3]. This is not to be confused with oral minoxidil, which is licensed to treat high blood pressure in the UK. The absorption rate, when taken topically and applied directly to the scalp, is 1-2%, which is a lot lower than oral minoxidil and may at least partly account for the difference between the impact of topical vs oral minoxidil on blood pressure [1].
Does topical minoxidil affect your heart?
Research suggests topical minoxidil is not linked to heart problems, such as ischemic heart disease or abnormal heart rate [1]. There are rare cases where oral minoxidil use has been linked to these conditions, but not with topical use.
Does topical minoxidil absorb into the bloodstream?
Yes, a very small amount of topical minoxidil will enter the bloodstream despite it being applied to the skin surface. However, this isn’t usually enough to cause any systemic effects.
What are the side effects of minoxidil topical solution?
Generally speaking, people who use minoxidil 5% tolerate it well and any side effects experienced are quite mild. Side effects are generally less intense and frequent than with other hair loss products, such as finasteride. Some of the possible side effects of topical minoxidil include [5]:
- Skin irritation, flaking and redness.
- An itchy scalp and ears.
- Temporary minoxidil hair shedding.
- Headaches.
- Unwanted body hair growth.
- Changes in hair colour.
There is a very low risk of systemic effects, even if you apply it more than the recommended two times per day [6]. Approximately 95% of the absorbed minoxidil will leave your body four days after it has been applied [1].
Is minoxidil safe?
Yes, topical minoxidil is a safe and effective treatment for hair loss. Numerous large-scale studies have shown that serious side effects are uncommon and that most people don’t experience any negative effects [1, 7]. These days, millions of people use minoxidil.
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FAQ
Research has suggested oral minoxidil can lower blood pressure, and the FDA has approved it for maintaining blood pressure levels in patients with resistant hypertension [9]. Topical minoxidil is unlikely to lower blood pressure, as only 1-2% of the solution is absorbed.
Research has not been conducted on patients using minoxidil for over 65s, so it is not approved for use in this population. However, you still may be able to use minoxidil if you are over 65; it’s best to speak to your doctor beforehand.
Combining finasteride and minoxidil may be possible, depending on your eligibility. Your prescribing pharmacist or doctor can discuss the pros and cons of combining these treatments.
