A hair loss remedy may help grow a beard

Recent research indicates that minoxidil, originally developed for hypertension, may also promote facial hair growth. A study involving transgender men showed that applying 3% minoxidil twice daily for 12 weeks resulted in thicker facial hair compared to a placebo group. After eight weeks, participants using minoxidil experienced a 17% increase in mustache density and a 15% increase in beard density. Side effects were minimal, and blood pressure remained stable. However, the FDA has not yet approved minoxidil for facial hair treatment, and the effects on cisgender men remain unclear.