Hair loss affects millions of men and women worldwide. One of the most effective and widely used treatments is minoxidil, a medication that helps stimulate hair growth. Traditionally it has been a topical treatment, but in recent years, oral minoxidil has gained attention as an alternative. Understanding the differences between these two forms can help you decide which treatment best fits your needs.
Key Takeaways
Topical minoxidil is available over the counter, while oral minoxidil requires a prescription.
Topical is applied directly to the scalp; oral is taken as a low-dose pill.
Side effects between topical minoxidil and oral minoxidil differ. Topical is most likely to cause local skin irritation and may result in some initial hair shedding.1 Oral comes with a minor risk of increased heart rate and unwanted facial or body hair growth.
Both forms can be effective for hair regrowth when used consistently.
RedBox Rx offers oral minoxidil for as low as $15 per month and topical minoxidil starting at $13.33 per month, both with no insurance required.
What are the differences between oral and topical minoxidil?
Topical minoxidil is available over the counter as a liquid or foam applied directly to the scalp, while oral minoxidil is a prescription-only, once-daily tablet.2,3
While both forms show similar effectiveness, side effects differ between the two types:
The topical treatment generally has side effects happening at the site of application, such as itchy or irritable skin.4
Oral minoxidil’s side effects include an increased heart rate and, because it works systemically, unwanted facial or body hair growth.5
How does topical minoxidil work?
Topical minoxidil works locally by increasing blood flow to the hair follicles and extending the growth phase of the hair cycle.8 Regular application to all areas of the scalp — typically twice daily — can produce results after two to four months.9
How does oral minoxidil work?
Oral minoxidil relaxes blood vessels to improve circulation throughout the body and lowers blood pressure, which also stimulates hair growth.10 Unlike topical liquids and foams, oral minoxidil can affect hair growth across multiple areas — including increased body, facial and eyebrow hair. Because of this, dosing is typically very low (0.625–5 mg daily). It can produce results in three to six months.11
How do side effects compare for topical and oral minoxidil?
Common side effects of topical minoxidil are skin irritation, itching, headaches and increased hair loss at the start of treatment.12 In rare instances, patients may experience acne, burning sensations or facial hair growth.13
Side effects of oral minoxidil include an increased heart rate and unwanted facial or body hair growth. In rare instances, it can also cause feelings of dizziness, a drop in blood pressure, headaches and fluid retention.14
How do results compare for topical and oral minoxidil?
Both drugs have been shown to be similarly effective, so the right option for you depends on your personal preference and how your body responds to treatment.15 Some people prefer the convenience of a once-per-day oral solution, while others opt for fewer side effects with the topical treatment.
Can topical and oral minoxidil be used by both men and women?
Yes, it can be purchased in topical form and prescribed in oral form to both men and women. Women are typically prescribed a lower-strength dose or apply a regular dose less frequently to avoid unwanted facial and body hair growth.16
Can oral and topical minoxidil be used at the same time?
Using both forms of minoxidil at the same time may increase effectiveness by addressing the problem locally (with the topical treatment) and systemically (with the oral tablet). However, this requires further study and would also raise the risk of adverse side effects, so not all providers will offer combined treatment. Work with your care provider to determine if it is an option for you.
How RedBox Rx can help
RedBox Rx makes receiving medication treatment for hair loss easy and affordable.
Benefits of RedBox Rx include:
Transparent, affordable, flat rates for hair loss prescriptions starting at $10/month.
FREE consultations with a U.S. licensed medical provider.
No insurance required. HSA and FSA eligible.
FREE shipping directly to you. Monthly and quarterly subscription options available.
Get started on your hair loss treatment journey with our short online assessment for men’s hair loss or women’s hair loss.
