Monistat-7 is the latest OTC drug to be used unconventionally. While this antifungal medication is generally used to treat yeast infections, beauty vloggers claim it can promote hair growth. Continue reading and check if there is any truth to these unbelievable claims. Monistat-7 is also used to treat ringworms, jock itch, athlete’s foot, and oral thrush in babies. Recently, people have also started using Monistat for hair growth. Does it really promote hair growth? Let us find out the truth.
Does Monistat Promote Hair Growth?
There is no scientific research to show that Monistat promotes hair growth. The claims are based on anecdotal evidence. Monistat contains miconazole nitrate that prevents infections caused by yeasts and gram-positive bacteria (2). Fungal infection on the scalp causes inflammation, itching, and redness that may harm the hair follicles and trigger hair fall. Usually, doctors prescribe ketoconazole for treating fungal infections on the scalp. Miconazole nitrate has a similar structure and is somewhat effective as ketoconazole in managing topical fungal infections (3). Once the scalp inflammation is gone and it is healthy, hair growth resumes. That is one reason many people found Monistat-7 beneficial in promoting hair growth. In other words, Monistat-7 may help manage the type of hair loss triggered by scalp infections and not for any other reason. However, the truth that Monistat-7 is not a proven medicine for promoting hair growth will remain unchanged. If you are keen to give it a try, follow the methods below. Do a patch test to avoid any adverse reactions.
How To Use Monistat For Hair Growth
It is better to consult a dermatologist before using Monistat and follow their directions. You may also follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to apply Monistat on your scalp and hair. While using, ensure you:
Wear latex gloves and protect your hands Do not keep it on your hair and scalp for more than 15 minutes or as recommended by the doctor. Do not leave it overnight. Wash it off completely from your hair and scalp.
Monistat-7 is generally considered a safe medicine for topical use. However, off-label use may cause some side effects.
Side Effects Of Using Monistat-7 For Hair Growth
Using Monistat-7 on the scalp may cause:
Itching Skin irritation Burning sensation Swelling Redness Pimple-like bumps Flaking Tenderness
The safety guide published on the manufacturer’s website also warns against unregulated use of Monistat-7. The guide specifies that Monistat-7 is “for vaginal use only (4).” Any other usage should be monitored by a healthcare professional. Does Monistat help your edges grow back? According to anecdotal evidence, Monistat may help your edges grow back. How fast does Monistat work? You should use it consistently for a week to see some progress. Does Monistat work on bald spots? While Monistat may help stimulate hair growth, more research is needed to solidify this claim. Does Monistat dry out hair? Anecdotal evidence suggests that using Monistat may cause side effects like flakiness, itchiness, and scalp irritation. However, further studies are warranted to support this claim.
