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| - Last Updated on July 10, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A Facebook video claims that a hair serum can promote beard growth fast. We did the fact check to term it as Mostly False.
The Claim
According to a Facebook video, a roll-on hair growth serum can promote beard growth fast. The product claims:
“Grow Your Beard Fast with Minoxi Beard Growth Solution
Clinically proven for beard growth, 1500+ happy customers, No side effects, easy to use, Start seeing results from the first week! Order now and begin your beard journey!”
Fact Check
What is Minoxidil?
Minoxidil is a well-known medication primarily used for the treatment of hair loss on the scalp. It is available in various forms, including topical solutions and foams. Originally developed as an oral medication for high blood pressure, its hair growth side effects led to the development of the topical formulation. Minoxidil works by stimulating hair follicles, prolonging the growth phase of hair, and increasing blood flow to the applied area. However, its effectiveness can vary from person to person.
A 2019 review highlights both 2% and 5% solutions effectively promoting hair growth, with the 5% solution being more potent but also causing more side effects. These side effects can include local irritation and hypertrichosis (excessive hair growth). Minoxidil is available in solution and foam formulations, with the foam causing less irritation. It is also used off-label for other hair loss conditions and body hair enhancement, including eyebrows and beards, showing effectiveness in increasing hair density. Despite its established efficacy and safety, we need more research to fully understand its mechanisms and broader applications.
What is Biotin?
Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for various metabolic processes in the body. These include the synthesis of fatty acids and glucose. Biotin is popular as a supplement for improving hair, skin, and nail health. Biotin deficiency can lead to hair loss. But, there is little scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of biotin supplements in promoting hair growth in individuals who are not deficient in this vitamin. The adequate intake (AI) for biotin is 30 mcg for adults and 35 mcg for breastfeeding women.
What increases beard growth?
Beard growth depends on genetics, hormones, particularly testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), environment and lifestyle. Factors that can potentially enhance beard growth include:
- Healthy diet: Nutrient-rich foods provide the necessary vitamins and minerals for hair growth.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity can boost testosterone levels.
- Proper skincare: Keeping the skin clean and exfoliated can promote healthier hair follicles.
- Patience and time: Beard growth can be a slow process and varies significantly among individuals.
Do hair growth products work for beard?
Minoxidil is FDA-approved for scalp hair loss treatment, its use for beard growth is off-label. Some anecdotal evidence suggests that minoxidil can stimulate beard growth, but scientific research on this specific application is limited. Biotin supplements, on the other hand, have not been conclusively proven to enhance hair growth in non-deficient individuals. Therefore, the effectiveness of such products for beard growth remains uncertain and largely unsupported by robust clinical evidence.
Can a hair growth solution really promote beard growth effectively?
Not really. Because the product page lacks necessary information about this beard growth solution. There isn’t an ingredients list, and we couldn’t find any clinical trials for the product. To add, scientific evidence does not strongly support the rapid promotion of beard growth through the use of hair growth solutions like minoxidil or biotin (in case of people who do not have biotin deficiency). Some individuals may experience improved beard density and growth with the use of minoxidil. But, this is not guaranteed and results can take several months to become noticeable. Claims of significant beard growth within a week are likely exaggerated and not reflective of normal or general user experiences. According to our research, it takes a minimum of 8 weeks to see any noticeable effects. The product mentions it uses 5% minoxidil, and the 5% solution tends to cause more side effects than the 2% solution. So, be careful.
Moreover, there is a significant discrepancy between the numbers provided on the product page, which claims over 9,40,34,758 positive reviews, and the promotional Facebook video, which mentions only 1500 happy customers. We could not access the positive reviews mentioned on their website. The website itself is not a popular or reliable shopping site and appears suspicious. It does not cite any clinical trials for the products being promoted. Additionally, the same product is being sold on various lesser-known websites at different prices. We searched for the product on credible e-commerce platforms like Amazon and Flipkart but could not find it. Therefore, while it is present on several shady websites that do not even list the full ingredients, it is absent from reputable e-commerce sites. This further casts doubt on the authenticity of the product.
What does a dermatologist say about this serum for beard growth?
We consulted with Dr Rashi Soni, a Dermatologist at Rashi Hospital in Hingoli, Maharashtra, regarding this topic. She says, “Be cautious with claims about hair growth products. Minoxidil can help with hair regrowth, particularly for androgenetic alopecia, but its impact on beard growth isn’t as clear. Always talk to a healthcare provider before trying new treatments and watch out for products with overblown claims and mixed reviews, especially if you are taking medications.”
What are the side effects of minoxidil?
Minoxidil can cause side effects. Inform your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms, especially if they are severe or do not away:
- Itching, dryness, scaling, flaking, irritation, or burning of the scalp
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of these serious symptoms:
- Unexplained weight gain
- Swelling in the face, ankles, hands, or abdomen
- Trouble breathing, particularly when lying down
- Rapid heartbeat
- Chest pain
- Feeling lightheaded
What to keep in mind before using minoxidil?
Before using minoxidil, speak with a doctor or pharmacist if you take any prescription or nonprescription medications, particularly blood pressure drugs, or vitamins. Also, consult them if you have or have had heart, kidney, liver, or scalp disease, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Be aware that minoxidil can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it’s important to avoid direct exposure and wear protective clothing, sunscreen, and sunglasses. Additionally, check for any allergies to the ingredients in minoxidil. Minoxidil lowers blood pressure and can be dangerous when combined with other vasodilators, such as blood pressure or erectile dysfunction drugs. Use together only if recommended by a doctor.
What foods help grow a beard?
There are no magic foods that can promote beard growth fast. However, a balanced diet can support overall hair health, including beard growth. Foods that may contribute to healthier beard growth include:
- Protein: Hair is mainly made of protein, so consuming a protein-rich diet is essential. Good sources include eggs, lean meats, fish, and legumes.
- Vitamins and minerals: Nutrients such as vitamins A, C, E, and B vitamins, along with minerals like zinc and iron, are crucial for hair health. Fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds are excellent sources.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, omega-3 can help maintain healthy hair follicles.
These food items can help keep your beard healthy and promote healthy hair growth, provided you do not have any underlying conditions.
Conclusion
Be cautious of viral claims promoting natural remedies for hair growth, such as rabbit oil for hair, onion for fast hair growth, sprouted fenugreek for hair regeneration, gulmohar leaves for curing baldness, and neem oil for hair growth. Although these ingredients are popular for their potential benefits, there is little scientific evidence to support their effectiveness. It’s wise to approach such claims with scepticism and consult with a doctor before trying any new treatments. Misleading or sensationalised information can create unrealistic expectations and might keep people from seeking proven and effective treatments for hair loss and growth. Remember, what’s popular on social media isn’t always backed by science.
Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.
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