
Minoxidil works by sending a stronger “grow” signal to hair follicles. It opens potassium channels in follicle cells, which improves blood and nutrient delivery, re-energizes miniaturized follicles, and prolongs the growth phase.
As a result, more follicles stay in growth mode at once and individual hairs grow thicker and longer. Early on, some older hairs may shed as follicles reset into a new growth cycle that’s part of how the medication kicks growth back on.
Hair is noticeably thinner and softer to the touch. Scalp is now visible.
Finding more hair than usual on your pillow, in the shower drain, or on your brush can be an early indicator.
Gradual pulling back of the hairline, often in an “M” shape, is typical in men but can also happen in women.
If your hair part looks noticeably wider or more scalp is showing, it could be a sign of thinning.