Editor’s note: It’s important to note that these findings only suggest a potential association. To determine any cause and effect relationship, further study is required.
A recent study investigated the medication minoxidil as a potential trigger for rosacea symptoms. Minoxidil is a vasodilator, often prescribed to treat hypertension and hair loss disorders. Vasodilation describes a physical process in which blood vessels widen, allowing more blood to flow through them. In treating hypertension, this helps reduce blood pressure. Exactly why minoxidil aids in regrowing hair is unknown, but vasodilation may help deliver more oxygen, blood and nutrients to hair follicles.
At the same time, since rosacea affects the facial skin, failure to regulate blood delivery to the area may trigger symptoms. The study’s authors suspected this when several of their patients with erythematotelangiectatic rosacea reported flushing and worsening of their facial redness after taking minoxidil.
Studying anonymous electronic medical records from 2005 to 2025, the authors found patients were at significantly higher risk of experiencing certain rosacea signs and symptoms after using oral or topical minoxidil. For example, compared with control groups, rosacea patients using minoxidil for “non-scarring hair loss” had a 28% higher chance of triggering rosacea, and were more than seven and half times more likely to develop conjunctivitis related to ocular rosacea.
The authors noted that they could not distinguish between oral and topical minoxidil use in the study, and the delivery systems may differ in terms of systemic side effects. While further research is needed, the researchers suggested healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing minoxidil to rosacea patients to avoid worsening symptoms.
Reference:
Vattigunta M, Kooner A, Ira S, Jin XY, Miteva M. Exploring the Potential Link Between Minoxidil Use and Rosacea Using A Real-World Data Base. J Drugs Dermatol. 2026 Mar 1;25(3):294-295. doi: 10.36849/JDD.9767. PMID: 41779756.