Kirkland Minoxidil for women is one of the most popular and effective treatments for female pattern baldness and thinning hair. This easy-to-use topical solution can help regrow hair and prevent further hair loss in women.

But before you buy Kirkland Minoxidil, there are some key things you need to know to get the best results. This comprehensive buying guide will provide information on how it works, where to buy it, proper usage, side effects, effectiveness, directions, cost, reviews, and more.

What is Kirkland Minoxidil for Women?

Kirkland Minoxidil is the brand name for the generic drug minoxidil produced by Costco under their Kirkland signature label. It is a topical solution containing 5% minoxidil approved by the FDA to treat female pattern baldness and regrow hair in women.

The active ingredient minoxidil was originally developed and used as a tablet to treat high blood pressure. But researchers discovered it had the side effect of excessive hair growth. Further studies showed that applying minoxidil topically could help regrow hair on the scalp by revitalizing shrunken hair follicles.

Kirkland Minoxidil utilizes this effect of minoxidil to stimulate hair regrowth and stop hair loss in women. It is available as a liquid solution that needs to be applied directly onto the scalp twice daily.

How Does Kirkland Minoxidil for Women Work?

The exact mechanism by which minoxidil promotes hair growth is not fully understood. But research shows that it works by widening the blood vessels around hair follicles, increasing blood flow and oxygen to the area.

Some studies suggest minoxidil prolongs the anagen or growth phase of hair follicles, preventing premature transition to the resting phase. It may also stimulate production of prostaglandins which promote hair growth.

When applied topically on the scalp, minoxidil gets absorbed into the skin and penetrates deeply into hair follicles. By improving blood circulation and nutrient delivery to the follicles, it creates optimal conditions for healthy hair regrowth.

For women, the 5% concentration of minoxidil in Kirkland appears effective in stopping hair loss and regrowing hair. It must be used continuously to sustain results. When treatment is discontinued, any new hair grown may fall out after 3-4 months.

Where Can I Buy Kirkland Minoxidil for Women?

Since it is a Costco brand, Kirkland Minoxidil is primarily sold at Costco wholesale stores. You need an active Costco membership to purchase it in-store.

A 6-month supply of Kirkland Minoxidil (6 bottles of 2 fluid oz each) typically costs around $30 at Costco stores. This works out to just $5 per month which is very affordable.

You can also buy Kirkland Minoxidil online from Costco’s website without a membership. But there will be a 5% non-member surcharge added to the price.

Additionally, it is also available on online stores like Amazon, Walmart, and Walgreens for competitive pricing. Buying online gives you the convenience of home delivery.

When purchasing online, check that the Kirkland Minoxidil is specifically for women and not the men’s version with a higher 10% minoxidil concentration.

Also, ensure you buy it from a reputable seller and check the expiration date on the product.

How to Apply Kirkland Minoxidil for Women

To get the best results, it is vital to use Kirkland Minoxidil properly and as directed. Here are some tips on the right application method:

• Wash and dry your hair and scalp thoroughly before application. Remove any oils, sprays, or styling products.
• Use the dropper applicator to apply 1 mL directly onto the scalp twice per day. Do not just apply it to the length of your hair.
• Use your fingers to spread out and massage the solution evenly across the scalp to maximize absorption. Do not just let it pool in one area.
• Try to target the areas of your scalp with the most thinning and hair loss. But apply it evenly all over the scalp.
• After application, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent accidental transfer of minoxidil to other body parts.
• Let the solution dry completely before styling your hair as usual. It takes about 4 hours to fully absorb.
• Be consistent and apply it in the morning and evening everyday for best results. Using it just once a day may reduce effectiveness.
• Continue use for at least 4 months before assessing its efficacy in restarting hair growth.

What are the Side Effects of Kirkland Minoxidil for Women?

When used correctly as directed, serious side effects with Kirkland Minoxidil are rare. But some women may experience the following minor reactions:

• Irritated, itchy, or dry scalp
• Dandruff flaking
• Oiliness or greasy hair feeling
• Unwanted facial or body hair growth (rare)
• Rapid heart rate or low blood pressure
• Headaches
• Water retention or ankle swelling

To minimize side effects:

• Use only the 5% women’s formula, not the stronger 10% men’s version.
• Apply carefully just to the scalp and not on the length of hair to avoid transfer.
• Reduce application to once daily if irritation occurs.
• Discontinue use if reactions persist and consult a doctor.

Is Kirkland Minoxidil for Women Effective?

Multiple clinical studies have found that the 5% concentration minoxidil solution is an effective and safe treatment for reversing female pattern hair loss and thinning hair.

In one major study, about 90% of women using it experienced some hair regrowth after 4 months. Only about 10% reported no improvement.

However, results can vary widely based on factors like age, genetics, diet, health and the extent of hair loss before beginning treatment.

For many women, using it consistently for 4-6 months helps thicken hair, fill bald patches, and slow or stop hair loss. But existing hair loss is not reversed or cured permanently.

Continued use is necessary to sustain hair regrowth. When stopped, loss may recur within 3-4 months. Minoxidil helps regrow hair but does not address the underlying hormonal causes of female balding.

Overall, Kirkland Minoxidil is considered very effective based on clinical evidence, before and after pictures, and positive user reviews. But patient expectations must be realistic, and results take time and continued use.

How Often Should I Use Kirkland Minoxidil for Women?

Kirkland Minoxidil should be applied twice per day, once in the morning and once at night, for best results.

Using it just once a day may reduce effectiveness since minoxidil has a short half-life of around 22 hours. The two-daily application routine helps maintain a steady level of minoxidil on the scalp to stimulate hair follicles continuously.

Each application should be spaced out evenly. For example, apply once after showering in the morning and once before bed at night.

Try to apply it at about the same times everyday to keep a consistent 12-hour gap between applications. It takes 4 months of regular twice-daily use before results can be fairly assessed.

How Long Does It Take to See Results With Kirkland Minoxidil For Women?

Be patient when using Kirkland Minoxidil, as visible results take time to become noticeable. Hair growth is a slow process.

You need to use it consistently for at least 3-4 months before you can expect to see results. In the first 2 months, shedding may actually increase as weaker hairs fall out to make way for new growth.

Improvements are gradual. On average, most women see less shedding and new regrowth starting between months 3-6. Improvement continues progressively with sustained use over 6-12 months.

Take before and after pictures each month to better track changes. The new regrowth may initially be soft, fine hair that thickens and lengthens over time. So stay consistent for at least 6 months before deciding if Kirkland Minoxidil is working for you or not.

What is the Price of Kirkland Minoxidil for Women?

One of the biggest advantages of Kirkland Minoxidil is that it is very economically priced, especially when purchased in bulk from Costco stores.

• A 6-month supply (6 bottles with 2 fl oz each) costs around $30 at Costco.
• A 3-month supply (3 bottles) costs around $18.
• One bottle for 1-month supply usually costs $10-15.
• Buying the 6-month supply brings the monthly cost down to just $5 per month which is excellent value.
• Purchasing online from other retailers may be slightly more expensive due to added shipping costs.
• But online prices from Amazon, Walmart etc. are still very reasonable when compared to name brands like Rogaine.

Considering the proven results and FDA approval, Kirkland Minoxidil offers the best savings for the price. The savings multiply when you buy the 6-month bundle from Costco.

Are There Reviews for Kirkland Minoxidil for Women?

As a popular hair loss treatment, there are many reviews and testimonials for Kirkland Minoxidil that can provide helpful insights from real users.

On Amazon, it scores an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 4,000 reviews. 80% of users give it a full 5 star rating. Most reviews praise its effectiveness for stimulating new hair growth and its affordability.

Many women report seeing slower shedding and new baby hair sprouting after 3-6 months of continued use. Negative reviews are mostly from users who did not see results quickly enough before discontinuing use.

Reviews state that it may cause initial increased shedding of weak hair. But this subsides quickly. Consistency is key for seeing results. There are few complaints about side effects when used as directed for women. Overall, real user reviews indicate Kirkland Minoxidil is an effective treatment option.

Is Kirkland Minoxidil for Women Available Online?

Yes, Kirkland Minoxidil for women is readily available for purchase online. Costco offers it on their website for members and non-members.

It is also widely available on Amazon and Walmart with free shipping options. Other major retailers like eBay, Walgreens and Target also carry it online.

When buying online, always verify that the product:

• Is sold by a reputable authorized retailer
• Is unopened and unexpired
• Does not show any signs of tampering
• Is intended for use by women, not men

Look for the 5% minoxidil concentration clearly marked on women’s formulas. Also check reviews and ratings of the online seller before purchasing.

What is the Difference Between Kirkland Minoxidil for Women and Men?

The key difference is that Kirkland Minoxidil for women contains 5% minoxidil while the men’s version contains 10% minoxidil.

The 5% strength has been clinically tested and FDA approved for safety and effectiveness specifically for female pattern hair loss.

While men can use both 5% or 10%, it is recommended women only use the 5% women’s formula. The 10% concentration has higher risks of side effects for women.

The women’s formula also has a different applicator nozzle size to dispense the right 1 mL dose. Additionally, it is formulated at a slightly lower pH for gentleness on women’s scalps.

So make sure to choose the clearly labeled “for women” product with 5% minoxidil if you are female. Using the wrong one with higher strength can increase side effects.

Can I Use Kirkland Minoxidil for Women With Other Hair Products?

It is generally safe to use Kirkland Minoxidil along with other hair care products like:

• Shampoos and conditioners
• Hair sprays and gels
• Hair dyes and colors
• Hair serums and masks

However, you should avoid applying any other topical products directly on the scalp in areas where you use the minoxidil. This can interfere with absorption and effectiveness.

Products like hair sprays, mousse, gels should only be used sparingly on the length of your hair. Do not use them near the roots and scalp.

Allow minoxidil to fully dry and absorb for at least 4 hours before applying any other hair styling products. It is also best not to shampoo for at least 4 hours after application.

Check with your doctor before using minoxidil with any oral medications like birth control pills, blood pressure drugs etc. which may interact.

Is a Prescription Needed for Kirkland Minoxidil for Women?

A doctor’s prescription is not required to purchase Kirkland Minoxidil as it is an over-the-counter (OTC) drug approved by the FDA.

So you can easily buy it at your local Costco store or order it online without a prescription.

But it is still smart to consult a dermatologist before starting minoxidil to diagnose the underlying causes of your hair loss and rule out other conditions.

A doctor can help determine if Kirkland Minoxidil is suitable for you based on medical history and examine your scalp to assess miniaturization and pattern baldness.

They can also advise on proper use, set realistic expectations, and monitor your results and any side effects. But the product itself does not need a prescription.

What are the Ingredients in Kirkland Minoxidil for Women?

The active ingredient is 5% minoxidil by volume. The other inactive ingredients are:

• Propylene glycol – Enhances minoxidil penetration
• Water
• Alcohol – Helps drying and absorption
• Butylene glycol – Moisturizer
• Polysorbate 80 – Emulsifier
• Stearalkonium chloride – Antistatic agent

The multi-dose bottles also contain a preservative to prevent bacterial contamination. The foam may have additional foaming agents.

The formulas are hypoallergenic. But the alcohol content can cause dryness. Using conditioner after application helps. Consult a doctor if any irritation persists.

How to Store Kirkland Minoxidil for Women

To maintain effectiveness, Kirkland Minoxidil must be stored properly:

• Keep bottles tightly closed when not in use to avoid evaporation or leaking.
• Store at controlled room temperature of 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C). Avoid temperature extremes.
• Keep away from direct sunlight and humidity. Do not keep in bathrooms.
• Do not freeze or refrigerate. crystallization will affect potency.
• Keep minoxidil and any external applicators away from the reach of children and pets.
• Throw away any product if it changes color, becomes cloudy, or shows signs of contamination.

Can Kirkland Minoxidil for Women be Used on Eyebrows?

Using Kirkland Minoxidil on the eyebrows is generally not recommended or approved. The safety and effects of using it on the eyebrows and other body hair have not been established.

The product labeling explicitly warns against application to other areas of the body. The risks include unwanted facial hair growth and potential absorption into the bloodstream through thinner eyebrow skin.

Speak to your dermatologist before trying it on eyebrows. Special eyebrow growth serums containing bimatoprost instead of minoxidil may be a safer option for sparse eyebrows.

But refrain from applying the Kirkland Minoxidil women’s 5% solution directly onto the eyebrows or any other body part besides the scalp.

What is the Return Policy for Kirkland Minoxidil for Women?

Costco offers a risk-free 100% satisfaction guarantee on Kirkland Minoxidil if purchased from Costco warehouses or Costco.com.

If you are unsatisfied with the results for any reason, you can return the unused portion for a full refund of the purchase price at any time.

You will need to provide the receipt and unused bottles when requesting a return at a Costco warehouse. For online purchases, call their customer service line to initiate a return.

Other retailers may have varying return policies. But most will accept unopened product returns within 30 days of purchase. Check the individual seller’s return policy before buying.

Are There Any Discounts on Kirkland Minoxidil for Women?

The best way to get maximum savings on Kirkland Minoxidil is to buy the 6-month supply bundle from Costco. It already provides significant cost savings over other brands.

Costco does not offer any additional discounts, coupons or loyalty rewards. The bundled multi-pack pricing is very affordable to begin with.

When purchasing online from third-party sellers like Amazon, look for any available coupons or promo codes which may offer some discount on the price.

Some retailers provide free shipping on orders over a certain amount. You may also find price-matching offers beating competitor prices.

Limiting frequency of purchases by buying more upfront saves more since you avoid reordering fees. But note that it has a 2-year shelf life once opened.

Can Women Use Kirkland Minoxidil Foam Instead?

Yes, Kirkland Minoxidil also comes in a 5% minoxidil foam version formulated for women. The foam may be preferred by some users for these reasons:

• Easier to apply and spreads through hair more evenly
• Faster drying time compared to liquid solution
• Leaves no runny residue or greasy feeling
• Causes less contact irritation for sensitive scalps
• Works just as well as the liquid solution

However, the foam may be more expensive than the regular liquid version. It needs to be shaken vigorously before each use. The foam may also solidify at cold temperatures.

Check with your dermatologist to see if the foam or liquid solution is better suited for your hair type and scalp condition. But both forms are proven to be highly effective.

Conclusion

Kirkland Minoxidil offers an affordable and convenient treatment for female hair loss that can promote regrowth when used consistently and correctly over 3-6 months. Check with your dermatologist and use the buying guide information above to determine if it is the right option to add to your hair care regimen. With realistic expectations and diligent use, Kirkland Minoxidil can help restore confidence by renewing hair growth.