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Minoxidil in Malta: Minorga®, Regaine®, FOLIGAIN® & Results

Minoxidil is one of the best-known and most widely used active ingredients in topical treatments for androgenetic alopecia, meaning progressive hereditary hair loss. In Malta, consumers may encounter several products containing minoxidil, including Minorga® 2% and 5%, Regaine® Extra Strength 5%, Regaine® for Men 5% Foam, Minoxidil Torrent 5% and FOLIGAIN®.

Although two products may contain the same active ingredient and even the same concentration, this does not mean they are identical. They may differ in pharmaceutical form, inactive ingredients, applicator, package size, frequency of use, authorized indications and the group of users for whom they are intended.

This detailed FOLIGAIN® Malta guide explains what minoxidil is, how it may influence the hair growth cycle, the difference between 2% and 5%, foam versus solution, when results may be expected, what initial shedding is, what side effects may occur, what happens if you stop using it, and how the main products available or authorized in Malta compare.

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Contents

What is minoxidil?

Minoxidil is an active pharmaceutical ingredient that was originally developed as an oral medication for high blood pressure. During its systemic use, it was observed that some patients developed increased hair and body-hair growth. This effect led to the development of topical formulations for direct application to the scalp.

Today, when people refer to “minoxidil for hair,” they are normally referring to topical minoxidil in the form of a solution, spray or foam. The two best-known concentrations are 2% and 5%.

A 2% solution normally contains 20 mg of minoxidil per milliliter, while a 5% solution contains 50 mg/ml. A 5% foam is often indicated as 50 mg/g.

It is important to distinguish between topical minoxidil and oral minoxidil. Oral minoxidil creates systemic exposure and may affect blood pressure, heart rate and fluid retention. Topical products are intended for local use on the scalp and should be used according to the instructions for the specific product.

Minoxidil and androgenetic alopecia

Androgenetic alopecia is a common form of progressive hair loss related to genetic predisposition and the sensitivity of hair follicles to androgens.

In men, it often appears as a receding hairline, more exposed temples, reduced density on the top of the head and hair loss in the crown or vertex area.

In women, the pattern is often different and may appear as diffuse reduction in density on the top of the scalp or a widening center part.

Not all hair loss is androgenetic alopecia. Sudden hair loss, patchy hair loss, scalp inflammation, postpartum hair loss, thyroid problems, nutritional deficiencies, medications and other conditions may cause different patterns.

If hair loss is sudden, severe, painful, patchy or without a clear cause, it should be evaluated by a doctor or dermatologist before beginning self-treatment.

How does minoxidil work on hair?

The exact mechanism through which minoxidil supports hair growth is complex. However, topical minoxidil is known to influence the growth cycle of the follicle and help follicles that are still capable of producing hair.

In androgenetic alopecia, sensitive follicles may progressively become smaller. The hair they produce becomes shorter, thinner and less visible.

Minoxidil may help some follicles enter a more active growth phase and, in some cases, may increase the diameter of miniaturized hairs.

Minoxidil does not create completely new follicles in areas where functional follicles no longer exist. Therefore, an area where thin hair is still present may respond differently from an area that has been completely bald for many years.

The hair growth cycle

The anagen phase

Anagen is the active growth phase. It can last several years and is the period during which the follicle actively produces hair.

The catagen phase

Catagen is a short transitional phase during which follicle activity decreases.

The telogen phase

Telogen is the resting phase. After this phase, the old hair falls out and the follicle may begin a new growth cycle.

In androgenetic alopecia, the active growth phase may become shorter, and over time the hair becomes progressively thinner. This is one of the reasons why minoxidil results should be evaluated over a period of months rather than days.

Minoxidil 2% or 5%?

One of the most common questions concerns the difference between 2% and 5% minoxidil.

A 2% solution normally contains 20 mg/ml, while a 5% solution contains 50 mg/ml. A higher concentration means more active ingredient, but it does not automatically mean that it is the right choice for every person.

Different products may have different indications, different application frequencies, different age limits and different precautions.

Therefore, if switching from one brand to another, you should not automatically copy the dosage of the previous product simply because both contain 5% minoxidil.

Minoxidil for men and women

Androgenetic alopecia can affect both men and women, but the pattern of hair loss may differ.

In men, hair loss is often more visible at the crown, frontal hairline and temples. In women, there is often a more diffuse reduction in density across the top of the scalp.

Therefore, when choosing a product, you should check not only the concentration but also who the product is authorized for and how it should be used.

Foam or solution?

Liquid solution

A liquid solution allows precise application to the scalp between the hairs. It may come with a pump, spray, dropper or specific applicator.

In Malta, authorized products are available in solution form, including Minorga 2% and 5%, Regaine Extra Strength 5% Solution and Minoxidil Torrent 50 mg/ml.

Foam

Foam may dry more quickly and, for some users, may be more cosmetically convenient. Regaine for Men Extra Strength 5% Foam is an example of a product authorized in Malta.

Foam is not automatically stronger or better than solution. Concentration, inactive ingredients, dosage and indication remain important.

Alcohol, propylene glycol and sensitive scalp

Some minoxidil solutions contain ethanol and propylene glycol. These help dissolve minoxidil and distribute it across the scalp.

In some people, they may contribute to:

  • scalp dryness;
  • itching;
  • redness;
  • flaking or scaling;
  • a burning sensation;
  • a feeling of residue on the hair.

If one product causes irritation, this does not necessarily mean there is an allergy to minoxidil itself. Sometimes the problem may be related to the inactive ingredients.

How to use minoxidil correctly

Always follow the leaflet for the specific product you are using. In general:

  • minoxidil is applied to the scalp, not just to the hair;
  • use only the indicated amount;
  • wash your hands after application;
  • avoid contact with the eyes and face;
  • do not use more product in an attempt to achieve faster results;
  • allow the product to dry before going to bed or wearing a hat;
  • if you miss a dose, do not automatically use a double dose.

Minoxidil is normally used over the long term. Therefore, formulation convenience is very important. A product that can be used regularly may be more practical than one that is frequently skipped because of how it feels or dries.

Results after 1, 3, 6 and 12 months

After one month

One month is normally too short a period to judge the cosmetic result. The hair cycle progresses slowly.

After 2–3 months

Some users may begin to notice changes in shedding or very fine new hairs. Others may see no noticeable change.

After 3–6 months

This is a more realistic period for an initial evaluation. New hair may appear thin, short or less pigmented at first.

After 6–12 months

A longer period makes it easier to evaluate density, hair thickness, coverage and changes in hair shedding.

Photos taken in the same lighting, from the same distance and with the same hairstyle may be more useful than daily observation in the mirror.

Initial increase in hair shedding

Some users notice a temporary increase in hair shedding after starting minoxidil. This phase is often called shedding.

This may occur when hairs in the telogen phase fall out as the follicle transitions into a new growth cycle.

However, severe, prolonged, painful or patchy hair loss should not automatically be considered normal. In these cases, medical evaluation should be sought.

Minoxidil for the crown, hairline and temples

The crown or vertex is one of the most typical areas affected by androgenetic alopecia in men. Minoxidil is often used in this area.

The frontal hairline and temples may respond more variably. The condition of the follicles and how long the hair loss has been occurring are important factors.

An area where miniaturized hair is still present may respond differently from an area that has been without hair for many years.

What happens if you stop using minoxidil?

Minoxidil does not permanently eliminate the genetic predisposition to androgenetic alopecia. The benefits normally depend on continued use.

After stopping, hair that was maintained or grown with the help of minoxidil may gradually return toward the course that would have been expected without treatment.

Therefore, minoxidil should be considered an ongoing management approach for hair loss rather than a short course that permanently cures the condition.

Side effects and precautions

Possible local side effects include:

  • itching;
  • dryness;
  • redness;
  • skin flaking;
  • irritation;
  • contact dermatitis.

Using more than the recommended amount does not guarantee better results and may increase absorption.

If minoxidil is applied to broken or inflamed skin, systemic absorption may increase.

Symptoms such as fainting, strong palpitations, chest pain, unexplained swelling or significant changes in blood pressure require medical attention.

People with cardiovascular disease, heart rhythm problems or significant scalp disease should consult a healthcare professional.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

During pregnancy or breastfeeding, minoxidil should not be started independently. The product leaflet should be followed and professional advice should be sought.

Oral minoxidil and topical minoxidil

In Malta, Minoxidil POA Pharma 2.5 mg Tablets is also authorized as a prescription product. This is oral minoxidil and should not be considered equivalent to a scalp solution or foam.

Oral minoxidil creates systemic exposure and may affect blood pressure, heart rate and fluid retention.

For this reason, a person considering oral minoxidil for hair should do so under medical supervision and should not simply replace a topical product with tablets.

Minoxidil and DHT

DHT, or dihydrotestosterone, is an androgen associated with follicle miniaturization in genetically sensitive individuals.

Minoxidil is generally not considered a direct DHT blocker. It works through a different mechanism.

Therefore, minoxidil and products or medications that directly target the androgen pathway should be considered different approaches.

Minoxidil and TRIOXIDIL®

TRIOXIDIL® is a proprietary cosmetic complex from FOLIGAIN®. It is not another name for minoxidil and is not a generic version of it.

The FOLIGAIN® range includes products containing minoxidil, TRIOXIDIL® cosmetic products and selected formulations that combine Minoxidil with TRIOXIDIL®.

This allows for a broader routine for the care of thinning hair while maintaining a clear distinction between an active pharmaceutical ingredient and cosmetic technology.

Minoxidil products in Malta

According to the Malta Medicines Authority, several minoxidil products are authorized in Malta. Among the most relevant are Minorga 2% and 5%, Regaine Extra Strength 5% Solution, Regaine for Men Extra Strength 5% Foam and Minoxidil Torrent 50 mg/ml.

There are also oral products containing minoxidil, but these have a different medical profile and should not be considered a simple substitute for topical products.

Minorga® 2% Cutaneous Solution 20 mg/ml

Minorga 2% is a product authorized in Malta containing minoxidil 20 mg/ml, equivalent to approximately 2%.

According to the Malta Medicines Authority:

  • the active ingredient is minoxidil 20 mg/ml;
  • the pharmaceutical form is a cutaneous solution;
  • the product is OTC;
  • its status is authorized;
  • the marketing authorization holder is Laboratoires Bailleul S.A.

Minorga 2% is a good example of a product where the concentration is lower than 5%, and therefore comparison with 5% products should take into account both strength and intended user.

Minorga® 5% Cutaneous Solution 50 mg/ml

Minorga 5% is a product authorized in Malta containing 50 mg/ml minoxidil, equivalent to 5%.

The Malta Medicines Authority indicates that Minorga 5% is a cutaneous solution, OTC and authorized. The product documentation specifies that it contains propylene glycol as an ingredient with a known effect.

The Minorga 5% leaflet indicates that it is intended for adults between 18 and 65 years old with progressive hair loss or thinning on the top of the head, and that use for four months or longer may be required before the result can be evaluated.

This demonstrates why minoxidil should not be judged after only a few weeks.

Regaine® Extra Strength 5% Solution

Regaine Extra Strength 5% w/v Cutaneous Solution is a minoxidil product authorized in Malta.

Regaine is one of the most internationally recognized brand names for minoxidil. However, Regaine is the brand name, while minoxidil is the active ingredient.

When comparing Regaine with Minorga or FOLIGAIN®, you should check the concentration, form, composition, dosage and indications of the specific product.

Regaine® for Men Extra Strength 5% Foam

Regaine for Men Extra Strength Scalp Foam 5% w/w is also authorized in Malta.

The product contains 5% minoxidil in foam form. The foam format may offer a different application experience from a liquid solution.

For users comparing foam with solution, it is important to compare not only the concentration but also the inactive ingredients, frequency of use and how the product feels on the scalp.

Minoxidil Torrent 50 mg/ml

Minoxidil Torrent 50 mg/ml cutaneous spray, solution is another product authorized in Malta.

This product contains 50 mg/ml minoxidil, equivalent to 5%, and comes in a cutaneous spray/solution format.

Minoxidil Torrent is an example of how a single market may contain several 5% products with different formats, package sizes and application systems.

FOLIGAIN® Minoxidil in Malta

FOLIGAIN® Malta offers a broader range of products for thinning hair. Depending on local availability, the range may include:

  • Minoxidil 5% for men;
  • Minoxidil 2% for women;
  • Minoxidil foam;
  • lower-alcohol formulations;
  • Minoxidil + TRIOXIDIL® formulas;
  • TRIOXIDIL® cosmetic products;
  • 2dDR products;
  • TRICHOGEN® products.

The advantage of a broader range is not that one brand is automatically “better,” but rather that the user can compare more than one type of formulation and find a routine that can be followed consistently.

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How to compare Minorga®, Regaine®, Minoxidil Torrent and FOLIGAIN®

1. Start with the concentration

Check whether the product contains 20 mg/ml or 50 mg/ml minoxidil. These correspond approximately to 2% and 5%.

2. Compare the form

Solution, spray and foam may be used differently and may have a different cosmetic feel.

3. Check the inactive ingredients

Alcohol, propylene glycol and other ingredients may influence drying time, feel and scalp tolerance.

4. Compare the applicator

A pump, spray, dropper or foam may be more or less convenient depending on hair length and the area of hair loss.

5. Compare package size

The price of one bottle does not indicate how much a month or several months of treatment will cost.

6. Follow local instructions

Do not automatically use the dosage of another brand simply because it has the same concentration.

7. Think long term

Minoxidil normally requires continuous use. Therefore, convenience, tolerability and long-term cost are all relevant.

Frequently asked questions about minoxidil in Malta

Is Minorga 5% minoxidil?

Yes. Minorga 5% contains minoxidil 50 mg/ml.

Is Minorga 2% also minoxidil?

Yes. Minorga 2% contains minoxidil 20 mg/ml.

Does Regaine® contain minoxidil?

Yes. Regaine is a brand of products containing minoxidil.

Is Minoxidil Torrent 5%?

Yes. Minoxidil Torrent 50 mg/ml corresponds to a formulation of approximately 5%.

Does FOLIGAIN® 5% have the same nominal concentration as 50 mg/ml?

Yes. 5% and 50 mg/ml indicate the same nominal concentration of minoxidil, although the final formulation may differ.

Is 5% better than 2%?

5% is a higher concentration, but it is not necessarily the right choice for every person. The product leaflet should be followed.

How long does it take to see results?

Results are evaluated over a period of months. Some products indicate that several months of use may be required before improvement becomes visible.

Can minoxidil increase hair shedding at first?

Some users may experience a temporary increase in shedding. Severe or prolonged hair loss should be evaluated.

Is foam better than solution?

Not for everyone. The best format depends on the formulation, tolerability and user preference.

What happens if I stop minoxidil?

The benefit normally depends on continued use. After stopping, hair maintained with minoxidil may gradually be lost.

Can I use more product to get faster results?

No. More product does not guarantee better results and may increase the risk of unwanted effects.

Is TRIOXIDIL® the same as minoxidil?

No. TRIOXIDIL® is a proprietary cosmetic complex from FOLIGAIN®, while minoxidil is an active pharmaceutical ingredient.

Official sources and further information

Important information

This article is for general informational and educational purposes and does not replace advice from a doctor, dermatologist or pharmacist. Minoxidil is an active pharmaceutical ingredient. Always follow the leaflet and official information for the specific product you are using.

Authorization, availability, package sizes and indications may change over time. The fact that a brand is mentioned in this article does not mean that every package is available at all times or suitable for every user.

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