Rohan Menon Rohan Menon Asked 5 months ago

Does minoxidil cause dandruff?

I started using Minoxidil for my hair loss a few months ago, and while I see some regrowth, I've also developed a very itchy and flaky scalp. Does minoxidil cause dandruff, or is it something else?

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5 answers

Siddharth Basu Siddharth Basu Joined Jan 2026 5 months ago
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When I went to the dermatologist at Max Hospital, he told me that the alcohol content in liquid minoxidil can dry out the scalp, causing flaky skin that looks like dandruff. He suggested switching to the foam version which is much gentler.

Nisha Grewal Nisha Grewal Joined Mar 2026 5 months ago

Oh god, don't ask! Between handling a crying baby at night and applying minoxidil, my head looks like a snow globe. It definitely dries out the scalp. I just use a mild anti-dandruff shampoo twice a week now.

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Consult a dermatologist

Rukmani Devi Rukmani Devi Joined Feb 2026 5 months ago

Beta, these chemical treatments are very harsh on the scalp and can cause a lot of dryness. Try applying a little warm coconut oil with a single drop of lemon juice on weekends, but do it gently so you do not break the new hair.

Baldev Singh Baldev Singh Joined May 2026 5 months ago

I have been using these hair solutions for years now. Yes, initially the scalp gets dry and itchy, but it settled down after a few weeks. Don't worry too much, just keep your scalp clean and consult your skin doctor if it gets too itchy.

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Pritha Sen Pritha Sen Joined Jun 2026 4 months ago

I had the exact same issue when I started using minoxidil 2% solution. It is actually just the dried residue of the medicine flaking off, not actual dandruff. Try washing your hair regularly with a gentle shampoo and it should get better.

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