Minoxidil—also known by brand names like Regaine or Rogaine—is one of the most widely used and effective treatments for androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness). Applied topically, it stimulates hair growth by improving blood flow to hair follicles, helping to restore thinning areas and delay further loss.
But there’s an ongoing rumour that often crops up online: Does Minoxidil increase testosterone? Let’s break down what the science really says.
What Is Minoxidil and How Does It Work?
Minoxidil was the first medically approved treatment for male pattern baldness, and it remains a trusted option today. It works by dilating blood vessels in the scalp, increasing the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the hair follicles. This supports healthier follicle function and, in many cases, leads to visible regrowth. Studies suggest that around 60–70% of men see improvement in hair density with consistent use.
However, Minoxidil does not directly target the root hormonal cause of hair loss: DHT (dihydrotestosterone).
DHT, Testosterone, and Hair Loss
DHT is a by-product of testosterone, converted in the body by the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase. In men genetically sensitive to DHT, this hormone causes hair follicles to shrink and eventually stop producing hair—hence the progression of male pattern baldness.
Other treatments, like Finasteride (Propecia), work by reducing the amount of DHT in the body. Finasteride blocks the enzyme that converts testosterone into DHT, thereby addressing the hormonal cause of hair loss.
In contrast, Minoxidil does not interfere with testosterone or DHT production—raising questions about whether it has any hormonal effects at all.
Does Minoxidil Increase Testosterone?
In short: No, there’s no solid evidence that Minoxidil affects testosterone levels.
Here’s what the research says:
- A 1987 study investigated whether Minoxidil had anti-androgenic effects (i.e., reduced levels of male hormones). It found no such effect, suggesting Minoxidil neither raises nor lowers testosterone or DHT.
- A 2014 study explored whether Minoxidil affects androgen receptors—the proteins that allow testosterone and DHT to bind and function. It found that Minoxidil might slightly suppress receptor activity, but again, this doesn’t mean testosterone levels increase.
- Another study examined Minoxidil’s effect on 5-alpha-reductase (the enzyme that creates DHT). It showed a very slight increase in the enzyme’s activity—but not to a clinically relevant level.
Conclusion? Minoxidil doesn’t increase testosterone, reduce it, or significantly influence how it’s processed in the body.
Clearing Up the Rumours
Some people speculate that Minoxidil affects sexual health, masculinity, or libido due to its supposed link to testosterone. But this is unfounded. There is no evidence that Minoxidil impacts male sexual function, hormone balance, or “manliness.”
What Side Effects Can Minoxidil Cause?
Although Minoxidil doesn’t interfere with hormones, it can cause side effects—usually related to its effects on blood vessels:
- Dizziness
- Light-headedness or drowsiness
- Irregular heartbeat (in rare cases)
These are more likely in people with naturally low blood pressure, since Minoxidil is a vasodilator (it relaxes blood vessels).
Other potential side effects include:
- Scalp irritation
- Dryness or flaking where the product is applied
- Rare allergic reactions
Key Takeaways:
Minoxidil remains a safe and effective treatment for hair loss with no established link to increased testosterone. While online rumours persist, scientific studies do not support any hormonal side effects. If you’re using Minoxidil to regrow hair, you can do so confidently—just don’t expect it to influence your hormone levels.
