Minoxidil
3% Minoxidil is effective and safe for beard enhancement [2016]. Feel free to use 5% Minoxidil, 5% is the standard for men. Minoxidil is U.S. FDA approved for hair loss, specifically androgenetic alopecia on scalp. We are using it off-label, basically use your best judgement.
When will I see Results and are they Permanent?
Dermarolling
Dermarolling along with Minoxidil is better than Minoxidil used alone [2013].
Dermarolling is a type of microneedling. A dermaroller is a product that creates numerous microscopic holes through the skin, which activates the body’s wound-healing mechanism.
Dermarolling causes collagen synthesis, which Minoxidil inhibits (in vitro). It also brings more blood/nutrients to the area, which stimulates hair follicles [2016].
DHT Blockers
The hair on top of the head (scalp) grows without the presence of DHT, but armpit hair, pubic hair, and beard hair cannot grow without it. DHT is bad for scalp hair. DHT is good for beard hair; so we want DHT for beard gains.
Testosterone converts to DHT and DHT blockers stop that conversion; so we don’t want DHT blockers.
Topical DHT blockers are not as potent as oral blockers, but it is advised to stay away from potential DHT blockers whether topical or oral. Finasteride/Dutasteride are oral DHT blockers.
Other Products that Help Hair Gains
There have been many components studied and their effect on beard growth has been documented. It’s all very scientific. You can try reading this section and buy every component separately, or you can buy non DHT-blocking growth promoting beard oils. These are pre-made based on scientific sources and with minoxidil and beard growth in mind.
Supplements
Common Questions not answered in FAQ
My Beard is not Symmetrical
It is normal for hair coverage to NOT be symmetrical on both sides or to have patches. And there is nothing specific to make one side or area have more gains. Just continue the journey.
Shaving for beard gains
Shaving does not speed up the minoxidil gains, it can only help you to use less minoxidil.
Optimal beard length?
Whether you should trim your beard, shave, or let it grow is up to you, but in general it’ll likely look better shorter and you’ll use less Minoxidil. Shaving can also exfoliate the skin, which helps Minoxidil absorb.
Minoxidil on Finasteride
You can use finasteride/dutasteride along with minoxidil, though it will slow down the hair gains.
Minimum Age to Start Minoxidil
We do not recommend staring Minoxidil use under 18, though as mentioned we are not doctors. Males finish puberty at approximately 16-20 years old, with many going as far as 22 years old. Beard genetics kick in around mid-20s and continue to develop well into 30s.
Fake Minoxidil?
Stop asking about fake minoxidil, buy from a reputable seller. An example is Kirkland brand off Amazon.
Brands of Minoxidil from Around the World
Short summary of everything
- We are not doctors, if you have heart palpitations, chest tightness, or other health issues due to minoxidil use, do not ask us, see a licensed doctor.
- If you stop Minoxidil you will go back to how you were before.
- No one knows your potential for beard gains from minoxidil.
- Once the hair follicle becomes terminal, it is permanent. No one knows how long till a hair follicle becomes terminal.
- Minoxidil is alcohol-based, so make sure to hydrate using non-DHT blocking beard oils.
- If the dryness is too much to take, we recommend using foam + non-DHT blocking beard oils
- Topical and Oral minoxidil both work, but topical will have less side effects and be more localized.
- Use however much or little minoxidil to cover the areas you want to have hair gains.
Epilogue
Thanks for reading. We know there is quite a bit of information in this FAQ, please make sure to check it before you post any questions as we have tried to answer commonly asked questions here. Also, if you find information that could contribute to this FAQ or if you have any corrections, please reach out to the mods. Good Luck!
Special thanks to /u/vegetaissuperior for creating this beautiful resource.