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What Causes Dryness Of Eyes Post Minoxidil Usage?

Posted on Thu, 23 Apr 2015

Question: Dr XXXXXXX in my last query we discussed how to best use Minoxidil. When I put the Minoxidil on my scalp in the evening, my eyes become very dry and I get very thirsty. How does the Minoxidil cause this to happen?

Answered by Dr. Sanjay Kumar Kanodia (5 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Dryness of the eyes and related problems: various possiblities.

Detailed Answer:
Dear Sir,

I can understand your concern for the dryness of the eyes and related problems after using minoxidil lotion.

The related problems could be due to various reasons:

- In general we suggest minoxidil to be used only 1 ml at a time and not more than that. In case if we use more than that then can cause irritation.

- It should not be applied beyond hairline. If by any chance it gets near to forehead then can cause irritation and dryness of eyes.

- The strengths of the lotion is quite important. In case if a percentage beyond 2 % is used then can cause the irritation.

So, kindly let me know if you have used 2% or 5% lotion and the amount of lotion used. Also so let me know since how long you started, at what time of day you used and how many times a day.

With regards,

Dr Sanjay Kanodia
MD-DERMATOLOGY & Sexually transmitted diseases

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Sanjay Kumar Kanodia (6 hours later)

Dr XXXXXXX I do use Minoxidil 5% lotion and apply once in the evening. I do use the drops in the very front of hairline. I have been using 5% lotion from Hair Club formula, but in the last few weeks I have been using 5% Rogaine. The Rogaine appears to be causing the irritation.

Answered by Dr. Sanjay Kumar Kanodia (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Use a lower strength of 2% and not 5%.

Detailed Answer:
Dear Sir,

Thanks a lot for your swift follow up with details. I can get that you have applied a higher strength lotion and that too over front of hairline. This has caused the dryness and related problems.

If I had been your treating dermatologist then would have suggested you to Stop the lotion for few days. I would have suggested to use a lower strength of 2% and not 5%. Use only half ml rather than 1 ml and only 1 time at night. Do not use beyond hairline.

Drink plenty of liquids everyday to reduce the dryness.

I hope this information will help you.

With regards,

Dr Sanjay Kanodia
MD-DERMATOLOGY

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Sanjay Kumar Kanodia (5 hours later)

Dr XXXXXXX Thanks, I will reduce to 2%.

Answered by Dr. Sanjay Kumar Kanodia (7 hours later)

Brief Answer:
You can reduce the strength to 2 %. Apply in minimum possible amount.

Detailed Answer:
Dear Sir,

Welcome back and thanks for your further follow up. I am happy to know that you understood the simple facts regarding your problem and related solutions for the same.

You can reduce the strength to 2 %. Apply in minimum possible amount and do not try to over apply.

My all best wishes for your healthy and prosperous life.

With regards,

Dr Sanjay Kanodia
MD-DERMATOLOGY

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar