We’ve all been there: you find an old bottle of minoxidil in the medicine cabinet, and you’re wondering if it is still effective. After all, you don’t want to risk using something that might be outdated. Does minoxidil expire?
Does Minoxidil Expire?
Yes, minoxidil does expire. Depending on the product, the expiration date will vary. It is essential to check the expiration date on the product before using it, as expired minoxidil may not be practical or safe to use.
What Is Minoxidil?
Minoxidil is a medication used to treat hair loss. It is also used to treat high blood pressure and certain heart conditions. Minoxidil is applied to the scalp in liquid, cream, foam, or powder form to improve hair growth and slow hair loss. It is often used in combination with other types of treatments. Minoxidil is used to stimulate hair growth in men and women. Most often, it is used to treat hereditary hair loss in men. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.
How Long Does Minoxidil Last?
- Minoxidil should be used twice daily for at least four months before results are seen.
- The effects of minoxidil can last up to two years after the treatment is discontinued.
- After discontinuing use, hair loss may resume within three to four months.
- The effects of minoxidil tend to last longer with continued use.
- Stopping the use of minoxidil may cause the regrown hair to fall out, and the original balding pattern may return within a few months.
- For best results, it is recommended that minoxidil be used for at least four months before any results are seen and then continued for an additional three to six months for full results to be seen.
- It is important to note that the effects of minoxidil are not permanent, and hair loss may resume when treatment is stopped or reduced in frequency or concentration.
- If treatment is stopped, minoxidil’s effects may last up to two years, but hair loss will likely resume within three to four months.
- It is important to consult a doctor before beginning or stopping any medication, as this may affect the effectiveness of treatment.
- Minoxidil is generally safe, but side effects such as scalp irritation and itching may occur in some people.
How To Tell If Minoxidil Has Expired?
- Check the expiration date on the package.
- Look for changes in color, smell, or consistency.
- Check if the product has become clumpy or lumpy.
- Look for signs of discoloration on the product or packaging.
- Pay attention to changes in the product’s texture or viscosity.
- Discard the product if it has been exposed to heat or light for an extended period.
- Check the product for signs of mold or other contamination.
- Shake the bottle and look for changes in the solution’s consistency.
- If the product has been open for over a few months, discard it and purchase a new one.
- Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure whether your minoxidil is safe to use.
How To Store Minoxidil?
- Store minoxidil in its original container, tightly sealed and out of direct sunlight.
- Keep minoxidil away from heat and moisture.
- Do not refrigerate minoxidil.
- Store minoxidil at room temperature, between 59°F and 86°F (15°C and 30°C).
- Keep minoxidil out of the reach of children and pets.
- Do not store it in the bathroom or near a sink.
- Do not freeze minoxidil or mix it with other substances, such as water or lotion.
- Follow all package instructions for proper storage and disposal of the product when it is no longer needed or has expired.
- Discard any unused product after the expiration date has passed or when it is no longer needed, whichever comes first.
- Dispose unused medication properly according to instructions on the package or from your doctor or pharmacist.
- Return any unused medication to the pharmacy for proper disposal.
- Never flush minoxidil down the toilet or pour it into a drain unless instructed by your doctor or pharmacist.
The Bottom Line
Minoxidil is a medication used to treat hair loss. It is available in liquid, cream, foam, or powder form and can stimulate hair growth in both men and women. Several alternatives to minoxidil may help promote healthy hair growth, such as laser therapy, scalp massage, PRP treatment, nutritional supplements, and hair transplant surgery.
