How to use minoxidil

Step by step

• Make sure your scalp and hair are dry.
• Part the hair over the thinning area.
• Apply 1 mL of solution or half a capful of foam (or your labelled amount).
• Spread gently with fingertips.
• Wash your hands.
• Let it dry before styling or sleeping.

Morning and evening

Pair applications with habits you already have, such as brushing your teeth. Apply the evening dose one to two hours before bed so it dries fully.

Common mistakes

• Applying to hair instead of scalp.
• Using more than directed.
• Doubling up after a missed dose.
• Judging results too early.

Step-by-step application

The goal is to get minoxidil onto the skin where the follicles are, not onto the hair shafts. A few parting lines across the area work better than one big pool.

• 1. Make sure your hair and scalp are completely dry.
• 2. Part the hair over the thinning area so you can see the skin.
• 3. Apply the labelled amount (1 mL of solution or the labelled foam dose) directly to the scalp.
• 4. Spread it gently with your fingertips over the thinning area.
• 5. Wash your hands thoroughly.
• 6. Let it dry for at least 20–30 minutes before bed, hats or styling products.

Building a routine you can keep

Consistency matters more than perfection. Tie applications to habits you already have, such as brushing your teeth in the morning and evening. Keep the product where you will see it. A twice-daily routine is usually spaced about 12 hours apart.

If you shower in the morning, apply after your hair is completely dry. For the evening application, apply early enough that it dries before your head touches the pillow.

Using minoxidil with shampoo and styling products

You can wash and style your hair normally. Use gentle shampoo, and apply styling products only after minoxidil has dried. If you colour or perm your hair, many people pause minoxidil for a day before and after to reduce the chance of scalp irritation.

Frequently asked questions