Minoxidil Foam vs. Liquid for Hair Loss: 4 Differences to Consider

Minoxidil (Rogaine) is one topical hair-loss product that you may see on pharmacy shelves. It comes in a few different forms and concentrations, including a topical foam and liquid solution. But which one should you choose?

Minoxidil foam and liquid have a few similarities. For example, they’re both available over the counter (OTC), applied twice a day, and need to be used continuously for several months before you’ll see results. But potential side effects, how you apply them, and how quickly they dry are a few differences to consider. We cover these differences and more below.

1. Minoxidil foam may be less irritating than the liquid

The minoxidil liquid solution contains propylene glycol. This ingredient helps mix minoxidil into the liquid. It also helps minoxidil reach your hair follicles. But it can cause allergic reactions and skin irritation for some people, including a rash, flaky skin, and itching.

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To reduce irritation, a foam version of minoxidil was developed that doesn’t contain propylene glycol. Studies have shown that people who use the foam don’t have as much burning, itching, and flaking skin.

If you experienced irritation from minoxidil liquid, you may consider trying a lower strength or the foam. But be careful — some foams are made with propylene glycol. Ask your pharmacist if you need help finding a minoxidil product that doesn’t contain this ingredient.

If you’re still experiencing irritation after switching products, you may be allergic to minoxidil itself. In this case, you should follow up with your healthcare team for guidance.

2. Minoxidil foam may be easier to apply than the liquid

One advantage of the minoxidil foam is that it may be easier to apply than the liquid. Both forms are applied directly to the area where you want to treat hair loss. But some research has shown that the foam may be preferred when it comes to ease of application. 

People also like that the foam dries fast and doesn’t drip as much. Minoxidil foam is made to evaporate off of your skin quickly — within 30 seconds. It doesn’t usually leave a residue on the skin afterwards, unlike the liquid form that can sometimes feel greasy.

When applying minoxidil foam, make sure to spray the foam into cold hands, since it melts quickly. Then, massage it into the areas where you want to treat hair loss.

EXPERT PICKS: WHAT TO READ NEXT

• Minoxidil side effects: Are you experiencing scalp irritation after starting minoxidil? Here’s a list of potential minoxidil side effects and how to manage them.

• Can it affect your sex life? Certain hair-loss medications can affect your sex life. But is this the case for minoxidil? Here’s what the evidence says about potential sexual side effects.

• Minoxidil FAQs: Learn more about how long minoxidil takes to work for hair loss, plus what happens when you stop using it.

3. Minoxidil liquid may be better for thick or long hair

If you have long or thick hair, you may prefer minoxidil liquid over the foam. 

Minoxidil liquid comes with a dropper or in a spray bottle. This allows for more targeted application to reach areas on your scalp through long or thicker hair. Just remember that you’ll still need to massage the medication into your scalp with your fingers after applying it.

4. Minoxidil liquid may cost less than the foam

Insurance plans, including Medicare Part D, usually don’t cover topical minoxidil. How much you’ll pay depends on whether you’re buying a brand-name or generic product and the formulation you choose. Generic versions typically cost less when compared to their brand-name counterparts. And before discounts, minoxidil liquid may cost slightly less than the foam at certain pharmacies.

You can save on OTC medications like minoxidil by using a free GoodRx coupon. But you’ll need a prescription from a healthcare professional in order to use the coupon at the pharmacy. 

With a GoodRx coupon, the price for one bottle is as low as $6.92 for minoxidil 2% liquid and as low as $11.57 for minoxidil 5% liquid. This is compared to one can containing 60 g of foam that costs as low as $9.68.

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Written by:

Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD

Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD, is a licensed pharmacist in California. She has been a retail pharmacy manager and staff pharmacist for over 7 years and has contributed drug information content to different health companies.

Edited by:

Alyssa Billingsley, PharmD

Alyssa Billingsley, PharmD, is the director of pharmacy content for GoodRx. She has over a decade of experience as a pharmacist and has worked in clinical, academic, and administrative roles.

Reviewed by:

Maria Robinson, MD, MBA

Maria Robinson, MD, MBA, is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist who has practiced dermatology and dermatopathology for over 10 years across private practice, academic, and telehealth settings. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and the American Society of Dermatopathology.

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