Minoxidil Face Bloating: What You Need to Know This Side Effects

Minoxidil is a medication that promotes hair growth and is used to treat hair loss. It is applied topically to the scalp or beard, stimulating blood flow and activating hair follicles.

However, there are some side effects to minoxidil, one of which is facial bloating.

In this article, we’ll talk about face bloating, one of the side effects of minoxidil, its cause and treatment. Also, find out how long does it take for the face to return to normal after stopping minoxidil use.

Minoxidil Face Bloating: Reasons

Minoxidil use is known to cause facial bloating. After using Minoxidil, many people have reported facial swelling or bloating.

This is not a common side effect, but it has been documented.

Facial bloating is a condition that causes the face to appear swollen or puffy as a result of fluid retention.

It can cause problems with the eyes, cheeks, chin, and forehead. Facial bloating can make the face appear rounder and older, lowering self-esteem and confidence.

What Causes Facial Bloating From Minoxidil?

The precise cause of this side effect is unknown.There are several theories as to why minoxidil causes facial bloating. Here are some possible explanations:

• Minoxidil can lower blood pressure, causing the body to retain salt and water in order to compensate. This can result in fluid buildup in the face and other parts of the body.
• Prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that regulate inflammation, blood flow, and fluid balance, can be increased by minoxidil. Prostaglandins have the ability to cause vasodilation, or the widening of blood vessels, as well as increase capillary permeability, or the ability of fluids to pass through the walls of blood vessels. This can cause fluid leakage into the face tissues.
• In some people, minoxidil can cause an allergic reaction, resulting in inflammation, redness, itching, and swelling of the face.

How to Prevent or Reduce Facial Bloating From Minoxidil?

There is no definitive way to prevent or reduce facial bloating caused by minoxidil because everyone reacts differently to the medication.

However, here are some suggestions:

• Use a lower dose or frequency of minoxidil. Some people may find that using less minoxidil or applying it less often can reduce the severity of facial bloating. However, this may also compromise the effectiveness of minoxidil for hair growth.
• Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated can help flush out excess salt and fluids from the body and reduce water retention.
• Limit salt intake. Consuming too much salt can worsen fluid retention and bloating. Try to avoid processed foods, fast foods, snacks, sauces, and condiments that are high in sodium.
• Exercise regularly. Physical activity can help improve blood circulation and sweat out excess fluids from the body. It can also help tone the facial muscles and reduce fat deposits in the face.
• Use skincare products. Applying moisturizers, collagen creams, sunscreen, or retinol products can help improve the skin’s elasticity, firmness, texture, and appearance. They can also help prevent or reduce wrinkles, dark circles, and sagging skin that may be caused by minoxidil.

If facial bloating persists or worsens despite trying these tips, it may be advisable to see a doctor for further evaluation and treatment.

The doctor may prescribe diuretics, which help the body remove excess fluids, or anti-inflammatory drugs, which can help reduce swelling and pain. The doctor may also recommend alternative hair loss treatments that do not cause facial bloating.

Read Also: Does Minoxidil Age Your Face?

How Long Does It Take For The Face To Return To Normal After Stopping Minoxidil Use?

The exact time it takes for facial bloating to disappear after discontinuing Minoxidil use varies from person to person and is not explicitly documented.

However, it’s known that Minoxidil results can take time, and it usually takes 3-6 months to see the effects of the treatment.

If Minoxidil is stopped, any side effects like facial bloating may eventually stop.

However, in the case of genetic hair loss, the hairs may regrow thinner and thinner, giving the impression that the hair is worse.

Minoxidil Eye Bag

Minoxidil can result in eye bags, dark circles, and puffy skin. Remember that these are not common side effects, but they have been reported by users.

The precise cause of these side effects is unknown. Some think it’s because of water retention, while others think it’s an allergic reaction. It’s also possible that the bloating will go away once you stop using Minoxidil.

Other Side Effects of Minoxidil

Here are common side effects of minoxidil:

• Skin irritation at the application site
• Scalp itchiness
• Slight burning sensation
• Skin rash
• Unwanted growth of facial hair
• Chest pain, fast heartbeats
• Swelling in your hands or feet, rapid weight gain
• A light-headed feeling, like you might pass out
• Headache, dizziness, confusion
• Flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling)

Conclusion

In summary, facial bloating is a known but uncommon side effect of minoxidil, with uncertain causes.

To mitigate it, individuals can adjust their minoxidil dosage, stay hydrated, reduce salt intake, exercise, and use skincare products.

The duration for bloating to subside varies, typically aligning with the cessation of minoxidil use.