Having a full, thick beard is a dream for many men. However, some individuals struggle with patchy or thin facial hair, making it difficult to achieve the desired beard look. If you are someone who is dealing with a patchy beard, there are several methods you can try to promote beard growth and achieve a fuller, more even beard. However by far the best method is the use of minoxidil and dermarolling, which has shown promising results in fixing patchy beards.
What is Minoxidil?
Minoxidil is a medication that was initially developed to treat high blood pressure. However, researchers discovered that one of its side effects was increased hair growth. Since then, minoxidil has been widely used as a topical solution for promoting hair growth on the scalp. The exact mechanism of action is not fully understood, but it is believed to dilate blood vessels, improve blood flow to the hair follicles, and prolong the growth phase of hair.
What is Dermarolling?
Dermarolling, also known as microneedling, is a cosmetic procedure that involves using a roller with tiny needles to create small punctures in the skin. These tiny punctures stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, which are essential for healthy skin and hair growth. Additionally, dermarolling helps improve the absorption and effectiveness of topical treatments, such as minoxidil.
The solution
Apply minoxidil twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. You want to properly apply a small amount onto the patches and gently massage the area after application. About 50% of the minoxidil is going to be absorbed within the first hour, however only after four hours does 90% of it get absorbed. This is also the amount of time you should wait before rinsing it off your face and cleaning it properly. You can use any kind of foaming cleanser or micellar water to accomplish this.
It’s important to note that minoxidil contains alcohol though. If you’re someone with dry skin, you may experience shedding from time to time. The best way to prevent shedding is to apply a moisturizer around noon after you’ve cleansed your skin from the first morning application and perhaps once more in the evening after you’ve cleansed your face from the second application. Another option is to use a foaming solution for your minoxidil, which would prevent the skin from drying out.
However, using minoxidil just by itself isn’t enough. Studies have shown that one can achieve up to a 300% increase in effectiveness by combining minoxidil with dermarolling. To do this properly, it’s important not to use a dermaroller with needles longer than 0.25mm or at most 0.5mm. We suggest the Kitsch, Micro Derma Roller for a budget-friendly option, or consider the Beard Club Derma Roller for a pricier option.
Derma roll once per week, no more than that, and on the day you are doing the dermarolling, refrain from applying any minoxidil at all.
Important Considerations
- Before and after each use of the dermaroller, rinse it thoroughly in alcohol.
- Exercise caution and avoid applying excessive pressure when dermarolling.
- If you have very dry skin, consider switching to a foaming solution for your minoxidil.
- When using minoxidil, do not apply moisturizer directly on top; first, wash it off.
- Prior to using minoxidil, research potential negative side effects, especially if you have underlying health issues.
- If you are unable to use minoxidil, explore alternatives like castor oil or rosemary oil with caution due to their potential to clog pores.
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