For years, topical minoxidil has been the gold-standard treatment for hair growth.
Topical minoxidil works by extending the hair’s growth phase (anagen), increasing blood flow to the follicles, and enlarging miniaturised follicles so they can produce thicker, healthier strands.
“It stimulates hair growth but does not treat the underlying cause of hair loss,” explains Dr Marina Queiroz, dermatologist at FAYY Health Clinic.
Unwanted facial hair growth (hypertrichosis) is another concern, particularly for women.
PRP uses your own blood-derived growth factors and has become a credible in-clinic alternative to restoring hair growth, too.
For years, topical minoxidil has been the gold-standard treatment for hair growth. So it’s no surprise that its sudden rise has taken over the internet, with users and experts championing its long-term benefits — promising the kind of healthy, voluminous hair most people spend years chasing. And while there’s no denying its efficacy, people are looking for alternatives that provide similar results without the lifelong commitment.
Topical minoxidil works by extending the hair’s growth phase (anagen), increasing blood flow to the follicles, and enlarging miniaturised follicles so they can produce thicker, healthier strands. “It stimulates hair growth but does not treat the underlying cause of hair loss,” explains Dr Marina Queiroz, dermatologist at FAYY Health Clinic.
While effective, minoxidil is rather commitment-heavy and has a lifelong dependency, which means continued use is required to maintain results. Stopping usually leads to a gradual loss of regrown hair. And then there are the side effects. As an aesthetic expert, Dr Ramsha Riaz, Bionix Clinic, Dubai, notes that the most common include scalp irritation, dryness, flaking, and an initial shedding phase that can feel alarming. Unwanted facial hair growth (hypertrichosis) is another concern, particularly for women.
And then there’s the pet issue. “Topical minoxidil is highly toxic to cats,” warns Dr Queiroz. “Accidental exposure via pillows, hands, or skin contact can be dangerous.” Which is why, for pet owners, it's reason enough to reconsider.
Alternatives to topical minoxidil
Minoxidil in other forms
According to Dr Queiroz, low-dose oral minoxidil offers an alternative for those who want to skip daily scalp application, often improving consistency and delivering stronger results — although it must be taken under medical supervision. Injectable minoxidil via mesotherapy or intradermal therapy, on the other hand, targets the scalp directly, bypassing topical application altogether.
Rosemary oil
Rosemary oil is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. “There are some promising studies, but evidence is still significantly weaker than minoxidil,” says Dr Quieroz. Dr Riaz also adds that while it may improve early thinning, the results are slower, subtler, and far less predictable.
Peptide-based serums
Think copper peptides and growth factor complexes. These formulas focus on strengthening the scalp environment rather than aggressively stimulating regrowth. “Peptides are best viewed as supportive therapy,” explains Dr Riaz. “They enhance hair quality more than regrowth.”
Low-level laser therapy
This is a non-invasive in-clinic treatment that uses red light to stimulate follicles and improve circulation. “It’s a safe option that may improve density when used consistently,” says Dr Queiroz. Low-level laser therapy, however, works best as part of a broader regimen rather than as a standalone fix.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)
Remember the vampire facial that Kim K made Insta famous? The benefits extend to your hair, too. PRP uses your own blood-derived growth factors and has become a credible in-clinic alternative to restoring hair growth, too. “PRP is an excellent adjunctive treatment because it targets follicular regeneration,” says Dr Queiroz. The only downside? Maintenance sessions are often required for the best results.
