A proven, once-daily foam for hereditary thinning on the top of the scalp. Expect early shedding in the first weeks, then slow, visible gains starting around month 3, with best results by months 4–6. You have to keep using it to maintain benefits. Not intended for receding hairlines or frontal baldness.
Rating: 4.6/5
Specs at a glance
- Active: 5% minoxidil, unscented foam
- Indication: Female pattern hair loss, general thinning at the vertex/top of scalp
- Dose for women: Half a capful applied to the scalp once daily
- Form factors: 2, 4, and 6 month bundles
- Key label notes: External use only, flammable propellant, do not use on irritated or broken skin, not for under 18. FDA Access Data+1
How it works, in plain English
Minoxidil helps more follicles stay in the growth phase and can enlarge miniaturized hairs. That is why density and coverage improve, even though it is not changing hormones. First results often appear around 8–12 weeks, with more obvious gains by 4–6 months if you apply it as directed.
Performance timeline and what to expect
- Weeks 2–8: A temporary bump in shedding can happen as older hairs cycle out. This is expected and settles with continued use.
- Month 3: Early coverage and texture improvements for many users.
- Months 4–6: Best cosmetic gains and patient-rated improvements in density and scalp coverage.
- Ongoing: Benefits persist only with continued daily use; stopping leads to gradual return to baseline.
What it is good for vs what it is not
Good for
- Hereditary thinning on the crown or top of the scalp
- Readers who want a set-and-forget, once-daily routine
- Pairing with a scalp-first haircare routine to reduce residue and lift coverage
Not for
- Receding hairline or frontal band thinning
- Sudden, patchy, or unexplained shedding without medical evaluation
- Irritated, broken, or infected scalp skin.
How to use it correctly
- Start with dry or towel-damp hair. Part in rows so the scalp is exposed.
- Hold the can upside down, dispense half a capful into clean, dry hands.
- Apply with fingertips to the thinning areas of the scalp.
- Let it dry completely before styling or going to bed. Avoid flame or smoking while foam is drying because it is flammable.
- Use once a day. Do not double up if you miss a day. FDA Access Data+1
Pro tips
- Wash hands after application.
- Style with light products near the roots so you are not masking progress with residue.
- If also using a dandruff shampoo, use that on its days, then apply foam to a dry scalp later.
Hair and scalp health notes
Keeping flakes and oil under control helps hair look fuller because strands separate rather than clump. If you have seborrheic dermatitis, treat it on-label with a ketoconazole shampoo 2–3 times weekly, then use your regular cleanser on off days. Apply minoxidil to a dry scalp. FDA Access Data
Who it is for vs who should skip
For
- Women with gradual thinning on the vertex who can commit to daily use for at least 6 months
- Readers who prefer a clean, quick-dry foam over solutions
Skip or speak with a clinician first
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, under 18, have sudden or patchy loss, scalp disease, or unknown cause of shedding. FDA Access Data
Side effects and safety
Mostly mild scalp irritation or dryness. Rarely, unwanted facial hair can occur if product drips or transfers before drying. Stop and seek care for worrisome symptoms such as chest pain, dizziness, or faintness. Keep away from flames until fully dry. Do not layer with other scalp medicines unless your clinician says so. Cleveland Clinic+1
Alternatives to consider
- 2% minoxidil solution twice daily if foam irritates you or if your clinician prefers solution.
- Dandruff control with ketoconazole 1% shampoo when flakes fuel inflammation.
- Cosmetic density shampoos and light stylers for immediate fullness while you wait for growth.
- Clinician-guided options for female pattern hair loss beyond OTC, if needed. FDA Access Data
Pros and cons
Pros
- Only OTC topical with strong evidence for female pattern hair loss
- Once-daily dosing for women
- Foam is quick, low residue, and easy to part-apply PubMed+1
Cons
- Needs indefinite use to maintain gains
- Early shedding can be unnerving
- Not for hairline recession; not a quick fix FDA Access Data+1
FAQs
How long until I see results?
Some see signs by 3 months, with best gains around 4–6 months. Keep using it once daily. DailyMed+1
Can I use it on my hairline?
It is not intended for frontal baldness or a receding hairline. Results are best on the top of the scalp. ROGAINE®
What is the shedding phase and is it normal?
A temporary uptick in shedding can occur in the first 2–12 weeks as older hairs cycle out. It settles with consistent use. Taylor & Francis Online
Can I use other scalp products with it?
Avoid layering other medicated scalp products unless your clinician agrees. Let the foam dry completely before any styling products. Cleveland Clinic
