Minoxidil for Hair Loss: How It Works, Strengths and Application

Minoxidil for use on the scalp has been licensed in the UK since 1988. It is the only licensed medicinal product available without prescription for the treatment of female pattern hair loss.

How does minoxidil work?

Minoxidil works by increasing blood flow and oxygen delivery to the hair follicles, which stimulates them to produce new hairs and prolongs their growth phase.

How effective is minoxidil?

According to clinical trials, minoxidil can increase hair count by 10% to 15% after one year, and by 20% to 25% after two years of treatment.

How long does it take to see the results of minoxidil?

Generally, you will need to use minoxidil daily for 3 to 6 months before you start to see any improvement in your hair loss.

What are the side effects of minoxidil?

Minoxidil is generally well-tolerated, with few and mild side effects. The most common side effects are related to the scalp, such as irritation, dryness or itching, usually triggered by the propylene glycol or alcohol in older formulations rather than the minoxidil itself.

How to use minoxidil?

The standard routine is 1ml applied to the affected areas of the scalp once daily. For details on prep, dosing technique and the four-hour wash window, see our step-by-step guide on how to apply a topical hair loss treatment.

Where can I get minoxidil in the UK?

You can buy minoxidil lotion or foam without a prescription. Minoxidil treatment for hair loss is not available on the NHS, but you can order it privately. We offer topical minoxidil in alcohol-free, propylene-glycol-free TrichoSol™ base for sensitive scalps, plus low-dose oral minoxidil under prescription for patients who cannot tolerate topical formulations.

Our Minoxidil Treatments

Minoxidil - Topical Hair Loss Treatment 100ml

A gentle zero alcohol Topical Minoxidil solution made to order in TrichoSol™. No propylene glycol. Ideal for sensitive scalps. Prescription included.

From £55.00

View Product

Oral Minoxidil Tablets 5mg Tablets - Loniten Generic

Oral Minoxidil 5mg: prescription hair loss treatment for men and women. Tablets can be split for lower dosing. Results in 4–6 months. Free prescription included.

From £50.00

View Product

Oral Minoxidil Tablets USP 2.5mg Tablets for Hair Loss - Loniten Generic

Oral Minoxidil 2.5mg: 60 tablets. Once-daily hair loss treatment for men and women. No foam. No mess. Free prescription included.

From £35.00

View Product

Minocream Minoxidil Hair & Beard Cream 50g

Minocream™: prescription minoxidil cream for scalp and beard growth. Available in 5%, 10% or 15%, with optional tretinoin. 50g jar.

From £45.00

View Product

Next steps

For the broader UK landscape and where minoxidil fits, see our complete UK hair loss treatment guide or our how to stop hair loss overview.