Tag: Hypertrichosis

In a large retrospective review involving 1,404 patients on low-dose oral minoxidil for hair loss, the most common side effect reported was hypertrichosis, or excessive hair growth, affecting over 15% of patients. This systemic absorption is precisely why the question of, 'Does oral minoxidil cause eyelashes to grow?', receives a surprising affirmative answer as part of this broader side effect.

According to a 2025 GoodRx article, approximately 4% of women using topical minoxidil reported experiencing unwanted facial hair growth. This side effect, known as hypertrichosis, can be frustrating, but there are several effective strategies for how to get rid of facial hair caused by minoxidil.

Originally a medication developed for high blood pressure, minoxidil's most prominent and well-documented side effect is hair growth. This systemic effect has led some to wonder: does oral minoxidil grow eyelashes? The answer, while yes, involves a serious discussion of off-label use and associated risks.

Minoxidil can indeed cause unwanted hair growth, known as hypertrichosis, with the risk and location varying significantly depending on whether a topical or oral formulation is used. While typically a side effect, minoxidil's ability to promote hair growth in unintended areas is linked to systemic absorption, which is especially notable with the oral version.

While an FDA-approved treatment for hair loss, minoxidil's effectiveness can vary significantly among individuals, with one study noting that only 30-40% of women and 50% of men may respond favorably. Considering the potential for side effects, a daily long-term commitment, and the risk of discontinuation, it is critical to understand the downsides of minoxidil before starting treatment.

While minoxidil is an FDA-approved treatment for female pattern hair loss, up to 51% of female participants in some studies report unwanted side effects like facial hair growth [1.2.1]. Understanding the specific reasons why you should not use minoxidil if you are a woman, such as during pregnancy or with certain health conditions, is crucial for safety.

According to dermatological studies, there is no conclusive scientific evidence to suggest that oral minoxidil causes premature aging or wrinkles on the face. Concerns circulating online about whether **oral minoxidil ages your face** are often based on anecdotal experiences, which likely confuse temporary side effects with permanent changes to skin structure.

According to one study, up to 18% of patients experience a temporary increase in hair loss, often called the "dread shed," during the initial weeks of minoxidil treatment. This is just one aspect of what are the disadvantages of minoxidil, a popular hair regrowth treatment that requires careful consideration before use.

Some drugs are known to cause excessive hair growth, a condition called hypertrichosis, in a significant percentage of patients. So, **what drugs make you hairy**, and how can you manage this often-undesired effect? Understanding the medication-specific causes is the first step towards finding a solution.

In some studies of organ transplant recipients, the incidence of tacrolimus-induced alopecia has been reported to be as high as 29% [1.2.4]. But does tacrolimus cause hair loss for everyone? The answer is complex, as this powerful immunosuppressant can have dual and sometimes opposing effects on hair follicles.