Introduction: Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a common hair loss condition characterized by follicular miniaturization. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) plays a key role in promoting angiogenesis and supporting hair follicle growth. Oral minoxidil has been suggested to upregulate VEGF levels, enhancing hair regrowth.

Methods: This prospective study included 50 participants divided into two groups: oral minoxidil (1 mg/day; n = 25) and control (n = 25). Serum VEGF levels were measured at baseline and after 12 weeks of treatment. Hair growth parameters, including hair count, diameter, shedding, and pull test results, were assessed systematically.

Results: Baseline VEGF levels were similar between groups (p = 0.1873). Post-treatment, VEGF levels increased significantly in the minoxidil group (217.88 ± 22.65 pg/ml vs. 142.81 ± 23.14 pg/ml in the control, p < 0.0001). Hair count and diameter improved significantly (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.0040, respectively), with reductions in shedding and pull test results (p < 0.0001). Positive correlations were observed between VEGF and hair count (r = 0.9965), whereas shedding showed negative correlations (r = −0.5374).

Conclusions: Oral minoxidil significantly enhances VEGF levels, promoting hair growth and reducing shedding. VEGF serves as a promising biomarker for assessing treatment effectiveness and understanding the angiogenic mechanisms involved in AGA.

Ahmed A. Kawen, PhD, Professor, is a dermatologist and academic based in Nasiriyah, Iraq. His Cureus profile identifies him as Head of the Department of Educational Resources, College of Medicine, University of Thi Qar, with his primary specialty listed as Dermatology. His reviewer keywords include dermatology and dermatologists.

Available biographical information indicates that he is an Iraqi Board-certified dermatologist and has worked as a dermatology specialist at Al-Hussein Teaching Hospital in Nasiriyah since 2010. He previously served as Head of the Dermatology Department and has academic and teaching responsibilities at the University of Thi Qar.