Minoxidil. Update on its clinical role.

The study and common use of minoxidil have legitimized research in common baldness. Prior to this time, with rare exception, the field was dominated by charlatans and "snake oil merchants." Minoxidil has opened the door to scientific inquiry and allowed support of serious laboratory investigation. Minoxidil is the first "generation" of hair-growing agents. We hope that succeeding generations will fulfill our wildest tonsorial dreams.