Can Minoxidil Help with Eyebrow Growth?

There’s no shortage of discussions or solutions when it comes to hair loss on your scalp. But what if you’re struggling with thinning brows? ‘Like scalp hair loss, eyebrow hair loss can be triggered by a variety of factors, whether temporary or permanent,’ says Isfahan Chambers-Harris, certified trichologist and Alodia Haircare founder. Possible causes include alopecia areata, hormonal imbalances, over-plucking, nutritional deficits, health issues, and aging. When it comes to treatments, Minoxidil stands out as the only FDA-approved option that’s shown to effectively stimulate hair growth. If it can work for your scalp, could it also benefit your eyebrows? Here’s what you need to know.

What Is Minoxidil?

You might recognize this ingredient as Rogaine, although many other brands now use it as well. Minoxidil is a topical medication approved by the FDA to treat hair loss and thinning, explains Dr. Craig Ziering, a board-certified dermatologist and hair restoration expert. Interestingly, it was initially created as a blood pressure medication, but researchers discovered it also had the unintended benefit of stimulating hair growth, adds Dr. Chambers-Harris. Despite decades of use, the exact way it works isn't entirely understood. It's believed that because minoxidil acts as a vasodilator, it helps widen blood vessels and boosts blood flow. When applied to the scalp, this may increase nutrient and oxygen delivery to hair follicles, promoting growth, Dr. Chambers-Harris explains.

Can Minoxidil Be Used on Your Eyebrows?

The short answer is yes, though there are important factors to consider. While the FDA hasn’t approved minoxidil for use on areas other than the scalp, experts agree that it may be a viable option for eyebrows when used under professional supervision. Dr. Ziering emphasizes the importance of consulting a dermatologist or doctor to evaluate your hair loss and guide you on how to use the product properly, as it comes in different strengths and formulas.

What Kind of Results Can You Expect from Minoxidil?

Dr. Ziering notes that, based on both clinical practice and patient feedback, individuals using minoxidil on their eyebrows often see improvements in hair density, growth cycle duration, and even follicle size. In other words, it can help you grow thicker, fuller brows. However, it’s not as straightforward as it seems. Like with scalp hair loss, minoxidil tends to work best for issues caused by hormonal changes. Consistency is essential—if you stop using it, the benefits will fade. Additionally, don’t expect immediate results; it may take several months for noticeable changes, and eyebrow hair grows at a slower rate compared to scalp hair, says Dr. Chambers-Harris.

What Are the Potential Side Effects of Using Minoxidil on Your Eyebrows?

Dr. Ziering explains that some of the common side effects of using topical minoxidil include itchiness, scaly skin, irritation, or a burning sensation at the treatment site. This applies to both the scalp and eyebrows, which makes it crucial to be very precise when applying minoxidil to your brows. Be cautious, as improper application (or absorption) can lead to unwanted hair growth in places like your eyelids. To avoid this, he recommends using a liquid or lotion formula for more targeted application, ideally with a cotton swab or a clean spoolie brush. As always, check with a healthcare provider for advice on the right product and application method. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid using minoxidil altogether.

Other Ways to Get Fuller Brows

There are numerous alternative methods for enhancing your brows. One of the easiest is simply letting your brows grow by stopping tweezing or waxing. According to Kristie Streicher, co-owner of STRIIIKE salon in Los Angeles, allowing your brows to grow for about 15 weeks can lead to fuller arches. Another option is using a lash serum. It’s also recommended to avoid putting face moisturizer on your brows, as Sania Vucetaj of Sania’s Brow Bar in NYC explains that creams can clog follicles, slow growth, and even cause hair loss. If you want a quicker fix, tinted brow gels, fiber-filled gels, and micro-fine pencils can give you a fuller look instantly. Regularly brushing your brows with a spoolie brush (essentially a mascara wand without mascara) can also help remove dead skin cells and promote hair growth.

The Bottom Line

Full eyebrows can transform your entire face, accentuating your bone structure and drawing attention away from dark circles. Minoxidil can be an effective treatment to achieve thicker, fuller brows, but it’s important to consult with your doctor before starting it.