Minoxidil

The most widely used hair loss treatment in the world. It wakes resting follicles and extends the growing phase.

Minoxidil has been used to treat hair loss for nearly forty years. Doctors first developed it as a tablet for high blood pressure. Patients taking it began to grow extra hair, and that side effect became the treatment. In the UK, topical Minoxidil is sold over the counter at fixed strengths and prescribed at higher strengths in compounded serums. This page explains how it works, how we use it and how the prescription route compares with over-the-counter products.

What Is Minoxidil and How Does It Work?

Minoxidil is a vasodilator. It widens blood vessels, and in the scalp this increases the flow of blood, oxygen and nutrients to the hair follicles. It also appears to act on the follicles directly. Research suggests it prolongs the anagen phase, the part of the hair cycle where hair actively grows, and pushes resting follicles back into growth. We do not fully understand every part of how it works. What the evidence shows clearly is what it does. For hair loss in men and women, topical Minoxidil offers several benefits:

Stimulates regrowth: it can reactivate shrunken and resting follicles so they produce new hair.
Slows further loss: it extends the growth phase, so fewer hairs fall at once.
Improves density and thickness: existing hairs grow for longer and often thicker.
Suits men and women: it works in both male and female pattern hair loss.
Combines well: it pairs with other actives that target different causes of hair loss.

Infographic for uses of topical minoxidil treatment for hair loss in men and women in the UK

How City Skin Clinic Uses Minoxidil

Minoxidil is the workhorse of our hair formulas. We design every serum around the individual patient’s hair loss, health and goals. We add Minoxidil when it is safe and useful for you. It most often features in these treatments:

Minoxidil rarely sits alone in our serums. It works on the follicle itself, so we usually pair it with actives that work on the parts of the problem it cannot reach, whether that is the DHT driving the loss, how well the serum absorbs or how the scalp tolerates it. These are the ingredients we may use:

Finasteride: blocks the conversion of testosterone to DHT, the hormone behind pattern hair loss. Together they treat the cause and the follicle.
Dutasteride: blocks DHT production more completely than Finasteride and works well alongside Minoxidil in one serum.
Spironolactone: an androgen blocker we may use instead of Finasteride or Dutasteride, particularly in premenopausal women.
Tretinoin: improves how well Minoxidil absorbs into the scalp and may also help stimulate growth.
Caffeine: stimulates the follicles and supports circulation in the scalp.
Melatonin: protects follicles from oxidative stress and supports a healthy growth cycle.
Hydrocortisone: calms scalp irritation that Minoxidil or Tretinoin can cause.

How Do You Get Topical Minoxidil in the UK?

Topical Minoxidil at 2% and 5% is licensed in the UK and sold over the counter, with Regaine the best known brand. If a fixed strength on its own is all you need, you can buy it from any pharmacy without a prescription.

Higher strengths and combination formulas are different. These are prescribed for you individually and made up by a pharmacy as compounded serums. Compounded medicines are unlicensed. This means they hold no UK marketing authorisation, because they are made for one named patient rather than manufactured for general sale. It is a legal and well established route for treatments that do not exist on the shelf.

Minoxidil also comes as a tablet. Oral Minoxidil is licensed for high blood pressure and prescribed off-label for hair loss at low doses. That is a different medicine with different risks, and we do not offer it. We treat hair loss with topical formulas only.

At City Skin Clinic, our doctors design personalised hair loss serums that may include Minoxidil where it is appropriate and safe. To start, complete an online consultation form or book a video appointment. Your doctor reviews your health and your hair loss. They decide whether Minoxidil belongs in your formula, at what strength and alongside which actives. Then they design the serum around you. You can email your doctor at any time during treatment.

Personalised Treatment Fees (3 Month Supply)

VIRTUAL CONSULTATION£30
Your doctor designs your treatment and looks after you throughout. Credited in full against your first treatment.
PERSONALISED HAIR LOSS TREATMENT£120
A 3 month supply (100ml) of a serum designed around your hair loss, health and goals.
PERSONALISED BEARD GROWTH TREATMENT£120
A 3 month supply (100ml) of a serum designed for your beard growth goals.

There is no subscription. You order your next course only when you are ready.

Start Your Online Consultation

The journey to great skin starts here. Start your online consultation for personalised prescription-strength skincare.

Start Consultation

Personalised skincare that actually works and why you should use city skin clinic online skincare dermatology clinic

Over the Counter vs Compounded vs Oral Minoxidil

If you are considering Minoxidil, you have three possible paths. You can buy a fixed-strength product like Regaine over the counter, have a compounded serum prescribed and made for you or be prescribed low-dose tablets off-label. Which path is best depends on your health and hair loss.

	Over the counter (e.g. Regaine)	Compounded prescription topical	Oral Minoxidil
Licensing	Licensed for hair loss	Unlicensed. Prescribed and made individually for you	Licensed for blood pressure, off-label use for hair loss
Strengths	Fixed at 2% or 5%	2% to 10%, set by your doctor and adjusted over time	Low-dose tablets set by the prescriber
Other actives	None, Minoxidil only	Can include actives like Finasteride, Dutasteride, Spironolactone, Tretinoin, Caffeine, Melatonin or Hydrocortisone	None
Best suited to	Early thinning and first-time use	Hair loss needing higher strengths or multiple actives	Cases where topical routes have not worked or are unsuitable
Side effects	Mainly local scalp irritation	Mainly local. Your doctor can adjust the formula if irritation occurs	More body-wide effects, including unwanted hair growth and fluid retention
Medical monitoring	None required	Required	Required

How Effective Is Topical Minoxidil?

Minoxidil is the most studied topical treatment for hair loss. In a large year-long trial, around 4 in 10 men using 5% Minoxidil regrew a meaningful amount of hair, and 5% outperformed 2%. In women, both strengths improve hair count against placebo. Results build slowly. Most people need 3 to 6 months of daily use before they see a difference, with the full effect closer to a year.

Expect some shedding first. In the early weeks, Minoxidil pushes resting hairs out to make way for new growth, so shedding often rises between roughly weeks 2 and 8 before it settles. This is usually a sign the treatment is working, not failing. Also, Minoxidil works while you use it. If you stop, the new growth is usually lost over the following months and your hair returns to where it would have been.

What Strengths Does Topical Minoxidil Come In?

Over the counter, Minoxidil comes at 2% and 5%. Our compounded serums usually range from 2% to 10%. Strength is not the only lever though. Most of our patients do well at lower strengths combined with actives like Finasteride, Caffeine or Tretinoin, and move up only if they need to. Your doctor sets your starting strength based on your hair loss, your health and how your scalp tolerates treatment, then adjusts it at the end of each course.

What Are the Side Effects of Topical Minoxidil?

Topical Minoxidil is well tolerated by most people. This is because little of it reaches the bloodstream when applied to the scalp, so side effects are usually local and tend to settle as your scalp adjusts.

Scalp irritation: itching, dryness, flaking or redness where you apply it. This often improves with time, a lower strength or added Hydrocortisone.
Early shedding: a temporary rise in hair fall in the first weeks as new growth pushes out resting hairs.
Unwanted facial or body hair: mostly reported by women, and usually caused by the serum running or transferring onto the skin. Apply to a dry scalp, use only the amount prescribed and wash your hands afterwards.
Changes in hair colour or texture: uncommon, and usually settles.
Heart-related effects: rare with topical use because little Minoxidil reaches the bloodstream. Stop and seek medical advice if you notice a racing heartbeat, chest pain, dizziness or swelling of the hands, ankles or face.

Your doctor should explain these risks before you start and remains available by email throughout your treatment. If a side effect is severe, stop the treatment and seek medical help.

Who Should Not Use Topical Minoxidil?

Most adults can use topical Minoxidil without a problem. There are groups who should not use it though, and situations where a doctor needs a closer look before prescribing. It is not suitable for:

Allergy: anyone who has reacted to Minoxidil before should not use it.
Under 18s: our treatments are for adults only.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Minoxidil is not suitable during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Significant heart disease or blood pressure problems: because Minoxidil affects blood vessels, anyone with a heart condition or on blood pressure treatment needs a doctor’s assessment first, and it may not be appropriate.
Broken or inflamed scalp: conditions like psoriasis, eczema or infection in the treatment area need to be settled before starting, as a damaged scalp absorbs more.

Google Reviews

I would highly recommend City Skin Clinic. I have had a great experience with Dr Amel so far. She is extremely knowledgable and has explained my treatment plan in detail. I had a lot of questions initially and this was met with fast and in depth responses by Dr Amel. The ordering and delivery of the product is quick and easy and Dr Amel has remained in contact throughout my treatment to check progress. It has only been a couple of months but I have already seen an improvement in my hair and trust that I will continue to do so.

Katy

Fabulous company and fabulous service!

Yana

I have had the best experience ever, I was postpartum dealing with a lot of hyperpigmentation on my face. I felt really seen, heard and listened to you. I was provided with the upmost care and kindness. Including in-depth explanation on how to use what I was prescribed And I felt well equipped to carry out the treatment. The outcome of the treatment has been the best thing ever for me. I look amazing and my skin is magnificent. I’ve been complimented by almost everyone I know, including strangers. This is genuinely changed my life and I would recommend this to anyone. So thankful to Amel and her team 🥹❤️

Warda

Amazing service and are always helpful with any query that I have. I always recommend them to friends and family 👍🏾

Kelsey

Very helpful and professional. I totally trust their advice. They show real care. I highly recommend.

Natalie

Fantastic service. Super responsive and great clinicians. I have been using them for about a year now, for tretinoin. My skin has cleared and the formula and treatment was tailored to my skin. Really loved the outcome!

Jigi

Can not recommend this place anymore. All the staff are super lovely, doctors lovely, has great chat and I'm so pleased with my results!

Stefano

Such a professional experience, with amazing results that I couldn't have even imagined.

Tommy

I’ve been going to see Amel for about a year now and am very happy with the results. The service she provides is very personalised and has made a real difference to how my skin looks and feels. I would definitely recommend City Skin Clinic even if you have tried other, similar services.

Rachel

Dr Amel is fantastic - she was very transparent in her call with me in terms of what she thought would be best for me, and has over the course of the year since always been very prompt and generous in her responses to my email queries. Highly recommended!

Johann

City Skin Clinic allows me to get tretinoin delivered when I am running out rather than a subscription basis. Not only that but I cannot praise their customer service enough. They have been so helpful in all skincare advice not just the tretinoin. The response times are incredible and I feel like a valued customer with a personalised advisor. I have used other companies before and have been recommended others, but I’m not even tempted to move away from City Skin Clinic. They really are amazing.

Deanne

I'm very pleased with the service and product I have received from City Clinic. The process for prescription is easy enough to follow and I'm very satisfied with my skin improvement.

Lindy

Excellent results, I would highly recommend - Amel is really lovely and welcoming, she spends time making you feel comfortable and is honest about treatments and results.

Kat

Amel is a superstar. You can trust her entirely and know that she will not let you walk away disappointed. Highly recommend City Clinic.

Ashia

I appreciate the prompt responses and the treatment I am receiving is going well.

Emefa

I used the online consultation form and received a very quick response with detailed advice about a treatment plan. My two prescription products arrived a couple of days later in the post and I've already had great results in reducing pigmentation on my face after only 4 weeks of use. I'm really pleased with the results and the service and advice I've received from City Skin Clinic has been excellent.

Rach

City Skin Clinic helped me find a Treatment plan that really helped my skin problem of pigmentation /malasma.

Heinz

Amel is amazing she always takes time to understand your concern and will always give you the best treatment and advice and the results have been amazing. Thank you!

Iqra

I’ve been receiving treatment at City Skin Clinic with Dr Amel and I couldn’t be happier with the experience. From the start, Dr Amel was professional, knowledgeable and genuinely attentive to my skin concerns — she took the time to listen and tailor a plan that suited my needs. Many aspects of the process were clear and reassuring, and I felt well supported throughout. What stood out most was the ongoing support: Dr Amel has continued to check in, answer my questions promptly, and adapt my plan as needed, which has made a real difference in my progress. Overall, a thorough, caring and highly recommended clinic experience.

Sarah

I cannot recommend Dr Amel highly enough. She is genuinely the best skincare specialist I’ve ever worked with. From the very first consultation she took the time to understand my concerns in detail, explain the science behind everything, and create a personalised plan that actually delivered results rather than promises. My skin has transformed under her care. Years of stubborn hyperpigmentation, uneven tone and texture that I thought I’d never get on top of have improved more than I thought was possible. Every step of the process has been guided, monitored and adjusted so thoughtfully. She never rushes, she always explains the why behind each change, and she makes you feel like you’re in the hands of someone who genuinely cares about your outcome. What stands out most is how responsive and reassuring she is. Anytime I had a question or worry, she replied with real clarity and expertise. She pays close attention to detail, picks up on things I wouldn’t even notice, and makes you feel completely supported throughout the whole treatment plan. If you want a clinician who is knowledgeable, meticulous, honest, and truly invested in achieving the best results for you, Dr Amel is exactly that. My confidence in my skin has never been better, and I’m so grateful to her for the care, patience and expertise she’s given me.

I got in touch having been frustrated with breakouts and early ageing signs. I have been so impressed by the level of communication, empathy and support I have received. It feels so much more caring/personal than booking with other well known brands in this space (who often more of a subscription based model) I would really recommend this company - and Dr Amel - to anyone wanting professional advice and support with their skin concerns

Stephanie

In desperation I trawled the internet looking for alternatives and found this wonderful company. From the very first video consultation, I was listened to and given a plan which worked! I cannot praise Amel enough. She has given such good advice; she responds almost immediately and is so very sensible. I feel cared forand know I am in the most professional and capable hands. My skin has improved significantly and is now brighter, more even toned and hydrated. I am impressed to the extent that I paid for my darling daughter to have a consultation as well. In her words- "Amel is just lovely. She is THE best!" What more can I say??? I won't be going anywhere else as I have complete faith in the company and highly recommend them.

Karen

I had a fantastic experience with CitySkinClinic. The online consultation was incredibly convenient and cost just £30 - excellent value for such a professional and personalised service. I was pleased and surprised that the cost of the consultation came off the price of the treatment Dr Amel was extremely easy to talk to, answering all my concerns with great care and professionalism. She was very prudent and thoughtful in her recommendations which made me feel confident and well looked after Since using the cream my skin has noticeably improved in texture and firmness making me look healthier and less tired. My sun damage spots have also disappeared I highly recommend CitySkinCity to anyone looking for expert skincare advice with a truly personal touch

Jill

I'm not even halfway through my treatment for hyperpigmentation and I've achieved amazing results thanks to City Skin Clinic. The service has been effortless, professional, reliable and most of all very personalised unlike some of the other online clinics where you just fill in a form and wait for treatment in the post. I would definitely recommend to anyone who wants even looking skin!

Stacey

Really great online service provided. Very friendly and approachable Doctors who are extremely quick to respond, and offer advice on not only services and products they offer, but also non prescription skincare products. Would highly recommend!

Louis

Frequently asked questions

Yes, where your doctor agrees it is safe and right for your hair loss. If all you need is 2% or 5% Minoxidil alone, a pharmacy product like Regaine may serve you well and we will say so. The compounded route makes sense when you need a higher strength, other actives in the same serum or a doctor who adjusts your formula and looks after you between courses.

At 2% and 5%, yes. These strengths hold UK licences and are sold over the counter. Our serums are different. They are compounded, which means they are prescribed and made individually for you, so they are unlicensed medicines rather than licensed products. Oral Minoxidil sits in a third category. It is licensed for blood pressure and prescribed off-label for hair loss.

Most people need 3 to 6 months of daily use before they see a change, and the full effect can take up to a year. Photographs help you judge progress, because day-to-day changes are hard to see.

Minoxidil pushes resting hairs out so new, stronger hairs can grow in their place. Shedding often rises between roughly weeks 2 and 8 and then settles. It usually means the treatment is working. If shedding continues beyond 3 months or worries you, email your doctor.

Yes. Minoxidil is one of the best evidenced treatments for female pattern hair loss. Shelf products for women are mostly fixed at low strengths, so we design women's serums at the strength that suits you and can add actives like Spironolactone where they help.

Yes. Minoxidil can help patchy or slow beard growth and it is the core of our beard growth serums. A doctor should assess you first, because using it on the face is outside what the shelf products are licensed for.

It can, though this mostly happens when the serum transfers or runs onto facial skin, and women report it more often. Apply to a dry scalp, use only the prescribed amount and wash your hands after applying. If it happens, tell your doctor. It usually settles once the transfer stops or the strength is adjusted.

Yes, seriously. Even small amounts are toxic to cats, whether licked from treated skin, spilt liquid or a discarded bottle. Wash your hands after applying, let the treated area dry before contact and store the bottle well out of reach. If your cat is exposed, contact a vet immediately.

The benefit fades. New growth is usually lost over the following months and your hair returns to where it would have been without treatment. This is true of all current hair loss treatments, which manage the condition rather than cure it.

Not better, different. Oral Minoxidil can work when topical routes fail, but because it reaches the whole body it carries more systemic effects, from unwanted body hair to fluid retention. It is prescribed off-label and needs close monitoring. We treat hair loss with topical formulas only.

You tell us about your hair loss, health and goals, by form or video, whichever you prefer. A doctor reviews everything, decides whether Minoxidil and which other actives belong in your formula and designs your treatment around you.

No. We offer either an online consultation form or a video appointment. Choose whichever suits you. The assessment and the care are the same.

Yes, if you are a new client to our clinic. This is to ensure that we create a treatment that is appropriate and safe for you.

Yes. The doctor who designs your treatment stays your doctor. You can email them at any time with questions, problems or progress updates.

Direct email access to your doctor, at no extra cost. If something needs a closer look, they will arrange a follow-up by email or video. We never charge for follow-up or aftercare.

Email your doctor when you are ready and they will arrange your next course. There is no need to rebook a consultation. Your doctor may adjust your formula between courses based on how your hair has responded.

No. Everyone responds differently, so we would rather adjust your treatment after each course than lock you into automatic deliveries. You order your next course when you are ready.

We deliver across the UK only, and delivery is included. Prices are as listed with no hidden fees, and your £30 consultation fee is credited in full against your first treatment. Orders usually arrive within 2 to 3 business days.

All our treatments are compound formulas made individually for each patient and should to be used over 3 months from when they're dispensed. Its important to use exactly as directed in your treatment plan.

Compounded treatments like the ones we use are unlicensed medications because they are custom-made for each patient based on a specific formulation tailored to their unique needs. Unlike licensed medications, which are approved by regulatory bodies for general use, compounded treatments are created by pharmacists to meet the specific requirements of an individual patient as prescribed by their doctor. While they do not undergo the same approval process as licensed medications, they offer a personalised approach that can address specific concerns where a licensed treatment doesn't exist effectively under professional supervision.

Authored by:

Dr Amel Ibrahim
Aesthetic Doctor & Medical Director

BSC (HONS) MBBS MRCS PHD
Founder City Skin Clinic
Member of the Royal College of Surgeons of England
Associate Member of British Association of Body Sculpting GMC Registered - 7049611