Medical professionals are raising concerns about the potential side effects of the popular hair loss treatment minoxidil, after a 28-year-old woman developed excessive hair growth on her face, arms, and legs.
The woman, who had been using minoxidil spray to treat androgenetic alopecia—a common form of hair loss affecting around 7 million Americans—reportedly experienced abnormal hair growth due to a rare reaction caused by improper use.
Minoxidil, widely sold under the brand name Rogaine, is a topical treatment used to stimulate hair regrowth and improve hair health. Typically available as a foam or spray, it is applied directly to the scalp, with the FDA-approved dosage set at 1 milliliter (or six sprays) twice daily. A six-month supply costs about $60.
Doctors say the issue arose when the woman wore a wig during the day and a tight cap at night, creating a condition known as “occlusion.” This trapped the medication on her scalp for extended periods, leading to increased systemic absorption—far beyond the intended localized effect.
The result was hypertrichosis, a condition characterized by excessive hair growth in areas not typically affected by topical minoxidil use. Although rare, this side effect has been documented when the drug is applied in high concentrations or over large surface areas.
“This case illustrates the critical need for precise patient instruction on the correct application of topical therapies to prevent adverse systemic effects,” the doctors wrote in a recent case report.
The woman, who was being treated for alopecia with additional methods such as LED therapy and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, also took vitamin D and zinc supplements. Her alopecia had left a significant bald spot on the top of her head prior to treatment.
Although minoxidil is generally well-tolerated—with side effects typically limited to scalp irritation or texture changes—this case has prompted medical professionals to urge caution, especially among the estimated 40 million Americans using the product.
The woman has since discontinued minoxidil and undergone laser hair removal on her face. She continues with her other hair health treatments under medical supervision.
Doctors emphasize that while hair health tips and advanced treatments like minoxidil can be effective, patients must be properly educated on safe usage to avoid unintended consequences.
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