In the 1950s, a pharmaceutical company in the United States called Upjohn developed a substance called minoxidil as an ulcer medication. However, they discovered that while minoxidil was not very effective in treating ulcers, it had a powerful vasodilatory (blood vessel-widening) effect. Seeing the potential of minoxidil as a vasodilator, Upjohn conducted clinical trials.

During clinical trials for minoxidil as a blood pressure medication, patients noticed an unexpected side effect: hair growth.  Patients noticed an increase in hair on their body. This observation sparked further research into minoxidil’s potential as a hair loss treatment. Intensive research following the observed hair growth effect led to the development of minoxidil as a topical treatment for hair loss. In 1988, the FDA granted minoxidil official approval as a scalp treatment for hair loss.

The precise mechanism behind minoxidil’s hair growth-promoting effects remains fully understood. However, a prevailing theory suggests that it enhances blood flow to hair follicles, stimulating hair growth factors and promoting hair growth.

Minoxidil can cause side effects like scalp irritation, itching, and dryness. In rare instances, more severe side effects like rapid heart rate and swelling may occur. Despite these potential side effects, minoxidil is considered a relatively safe and effective hair loss treatment.

However, minoxidil is not effective for treating hair loss caused by aging or long-standing hair loss.