Minoxidil Shedding (A Temporary Side Effect)

A Science-Based Guide to Understanding the Hair Regrowth Journey 

If you’ve started using Minoxidil and noticed more hair on your pillow, brush, or in the shower, you’re not alone. This phenomenon, often referred to as Minoxidil shedding, can be surprising—even alarming—for first-time users. But the good news is: this shedding is not hair loss in the conventional sense. In fact, it’s a critical step in the hair regrowth process.

In this article, we’ll explore the science behind Minoxidil, explain why shedding occurs, what’s happening in your hair follicles, and why many people only start seeing real results after 3–6 months. We’ll also share how the ingredients in Soti 5% Minoxidil Hair Regrowth Serum help accelerate this process and support lasting hair health.

What Is Minoxidil and How Does It Work?

Minoxidil is a topical vasodilator that was originally developed to treat high blood pressure. When patients started reporting unexpected hair growth as a side effect, researchers discovered its powerful ability to stimulate hair follicles.

Mechanism of Action:

• Increases blood flow to the scalp and hair follicles, delivering more oxygen and nutrients

• Activates dormant follicles, pushing them from the resting (telogen) phase into the growth (anagen) phase

• Prolongs the anagen phase, allowing hair to grow longer and thicker

• May stimulate VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor), which supports blood vessel formation around follicles

This biological activity is what makes topical 5% Minoxidil—like in Soti’s formula—so effective for treating androgenetic alopecia, thinning hair, and hairline recession in both men and women.

Why Does Minoxidil Cause Shedding at First?

Let’s address the elephant in the room: Why would a hair growth treatment cause you to shed more hair?

The answer lies in the natural hair growth cycle:

Hair Growth Cycle Stages:

1. Anagen (Growth Phase): Active growth, lasts 2–7 years

2. Catagen (Transition Phase): Follicle shrinks, lasts 2–3 weeks

3. Telogen (Resting Phase): Follicle is dormant, lasts 3–4 months

4. Exogen (Shedding Phase): Old hair falls out to make room for new growth

When you apply Minoxidil, dormant follicles in the telogen phase are rapidly pushed into the anagen phase. This forces older, weaker hairs to shed prematurely to make space for new, thicker strands.

So, shedding means:

• The product is working

• Old hairs are being replaced by new growth

• Your hair follicles are reawakening

This shedding typically begins 2–6 weeks after starting Minoxidil and may last for a few weeks before stabilizing.

When Will You Start Seeing Results with Minoxidil?

Minoxidil is not a quick fix. Because hair grows slowly and cycles naturally, it can take 3 to 6 months of consistent use before noticeable regrowth occurs.

Month-by-Month Breakdown:

Month 1–2:

• Possible initial shedding

• Tingling or mild irritation as scalp adjusts

• Hair follicles shifting into anagen phase

Month 3–4:

• Fine, thin “peach fuzz” (vellus hairs) may appear

• Scalp may feel fuller even before visible change

• Shedding slows

Month 5–6+:

• Vellus hairs thicken into terminal hairs

• Bald patches begin to fill in

• Hair looks denser, stronger, and healthier

Consistency is key. If you stop using Minoxidil, hair regrowth may reverse and shedding can resume.

The Role of Ingredients in Soti 5% Minoxidil Serum

At Soti, we’ve taken the proven power of 5% Minoxidil and enhanced it with science-backed botanicals and nutrients to create a comprehensive, scalp-nourishing formula.

Key Ingredients:

• 5% Minoxidil: FDA-approved strength to reactivate hair follicles

• Ginseng Extract: Improves blood circulation and helps protect follicles from oxidative stress

• Biotin (Vitamin B7): Strengthens keratin structure in the hair shaft, reducing breakage and supporting growth

• Botanical Nutrients: Help balance oil production and soothe scalp irritation

This formulation is:

• Lightweight and non-greasy

• Suitable for all hair types

• Recommended by US dermatologists

• Formulated in the USA

Frequently Asked Questions

Is shedding permanent?

No. Shedding is temporary and often a positive sign that the treatment is stimulating growth. It typically subsides within a few weeks.

Can I stop using Minoxidil once hair grows back?

Minoxidil needs to be used continuously to maintain results. Discontinuation can lead to reversal of regrowth.

What if I don't see results after 4 months?

Some individuals take longer to respond due to genetics, hair cycle timing, or underlying health conditions. Continue using for at least 6 months before evaluating effectiveness.

Can women use Soti Minoxidil Serum?

Yes! While Minoxidil was first popularized for men, it is clinically safe and effective for women when used as directed.

Final Thoughts: Trust the Process

If you’re experiencing Minoxidil shedding or still waiting to see results—don’t give up. This phase is temporary, and with continued use, many people experience significant improvements in hair thickness, density, and scalp health.

Our Soti 5% Minoxidil Hair Regrowth Serum is designed to support you throughout your hair regrowth journey, from the first signs of shedding to long-term restoration.

If you’re ready to reclaim fuller, stronger, healthier hair, give your follicles the support they deserve—with a formula that does more than just regrow hair.