Monistat & Miconazole Nitrate For Hair Growth
Monistat 3 Cream
Monistat & Miconazole Nitrate For Hair Growth
Over the years I have been constantly asked about the underground long hair world belief that Monistat cream, used internally by women for vaginal infections, can grow hair when applied to the scalp. This product is also known as monistat/miconazole nitrate.
There is no scientific proof or recent published evidence that using this treatment method will actually work.
Miconazole Nitrate (MN) pronounced as (mye-KON-a-zole) is the key ingredient in any topical formulations generally available for treating other kinds of suspected external yeast overgrowth problems such as jock itch, ringworm and athlete’s foot/itch also known as tinea pedis.
Some of these creams have been tested as other optional hair growth creams.
The most common brand names for MN include Lotrimin AF, Micatin and Monistat Derm. Generic brands are also available with different names. When in doubt talk with your pharma expert. Medical doctors may also prescribe Clotimazole (1% or more) Econzaolve, Ketoconazole and Betamethasone Dipropionate Cream for related yeast problems and/or chronic psoriasis of the scalp.
Miconazole Nitrate 2%
If you wish to pursue an off-brand name of Monistat, Monistat Derm or a NM formulation look for miconazex vaginal cream (available at some WalMart, Dollar General or Family Dollar stores). The off-brand may not work as well as the hard core Monistat but it is much less expensive as well.
Neosporin AF
Some hair growers have also experimented with Neosporin AF since it also has miconazole nitrate. It is important to purchase the Neosporin AF or some other anti-fungal cream that specifies miconzaole nitrate as a key ingredient.
The idea behind this treatment is that the anti-fungal works on the scalp to increase hair growth by killing fungus living on the scalp and potentially slowing hair growth or blocking the follicles.
Nirzoral
Nizoral which is a common anti-yeast medication contains ketoconazole which is similar to miconazole but not exactly the same.
2% Versus 4% Formulations
Monistat Combo Pack
The amount of miconazole nitrate contained in Monistat versus other anti-itch products may vary from 2-4% in content. Some people believe the 4% rocks because it appears to work faster.
However, it also tends to have the highest risk of side effects.
Personal Testing Of Monistat For Hair Growth
Have I personally tried it? Yes. I always try just about everything related to hair (products, techniques, underground long hair tips).
Did it work for me? Honestly I didn’t see any major difference. In all fairness, I do so many things to keep my hair long and healthy that it’s possible if tried alone the Monistat would’ve made a difference.
I do need to point out that I do not even use Monistat for its intended purpose – yeast infections. Nope, over the past 25+ years I have found much more natural treatment methods that have less potential side effects. I also avoid using anything with miconazole nitrate because it tends to aggravate my chronic yeast.
Did I use the Monistat cream religiously? Yes, for 30 days. Was that a fair test run? Maybe not, but I experienced side effects that concerned me to the point that I was unwilling to continue the test.
Monistat Used To Be A Prescription Drug
Long Hairstyle
Keep in mind that Monistat used to be a prescription drug available only from physicians. Therefore, when anything I use or take has a direct connection to prescription drugs I am extremely cautious about using it.
Is it safe? Some people say that it is because it’s used to treat internal vaginal infections. I don’t know that I agree with that thinking, but then that’s just my own opinion based on previous experiences with the product when used as a internal yeast treatment cream. I always found that it burned when I used it which was somewhat concerning since it was supposed to be soothing and have anti-itch properties.
I can certainly understand the premise behind the use of Monistat cream for hair growth and if you look at it from a yeast viewpoint, it makes sense that it would work when applied to the scalp.
Do I Recommend Monistat For Hair Growth?
Do I recommend it? No. I think there are so many other ways to test the yeast/hair loss/hair growth connections. I would personally be more inclined in the future to use an organic yeast relief composition (suppository) on my scalp than the hard core Monistat.
Of course this is all based on my own opinion and experiences. I also have a very long history dealing with yeast related physical issues starting in my early teens when a dermatologist overdosed me with antibiotics and extending until approximately one years when I became violently ill as a result of tooth surgery and the medically prescribed antibiotics I was required to take.
Long Brunette Hair
My Own Personal Yeast Journey
On a daily basis, for the past 25+ years, once a naturopath diagnosed me with chronic systemic candida I have been following the basic yeast blocking and controlling steps:
1. Taking Probiotics in the morning and evening
2. Supplementing daily with various yeast herbal compositions including Candida Cleanse and Yeast Defense
3. Following a yeast aware food plan.
4. Avoiding antibiotics or antibiotic laced foods which may trigger a yeast overgrowth in my body.
What Happened When I Tested Monistat On My Scalp?
I tried the Monistat cream (purchased directly from a CVS drugstore) straight – applied directly to my dampened scalp with my fingertips. I also tried it mixed with organic jojoba oil which is known to be a growth hair oil.
Note: Some Monistat treatment users have mixed opinions on whether you should apply the formula straight or mixed with oils such as jojoba or Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Ultimately it’s your choice depending on what your hair responds best to.
Since I didn’t really want to apply the Monistat in the morning before I left the house for work, I would apply it at night when I came home, braid my hair and then sleep with the Monistat in.
After I used the Monistat cream for the very first evening I noticed a tingling in my scalp. Honestly, it made me a little nervous. Was I having an allergic reaction? Possibly. Was it kicking up my chronic yeast? Definitely a possibility.
Other Anti-Fungal Yeast Hair Scalp Treatment Options
Long Red Hairstyle
Some fans of the anti-fungal scalp treatments will combine their Monistat, Neosporin or other miconazole nitrate creams or gels with cayenne pepper, which is a known hair root stimulator.
The best cayenne pepper has at least .1% of Capsaicin which can be found in Capzasin HP at some WalMart locations. You can also use cayenne pepper from a health food store that has the required amount of Capsaicin.
Others will mix with cortisone creams, estrogen creams or other suspected hair growth aids.
Depending on what you purchase the formulation may contain either 2% miconazole nitrate or 4% which Monistat usually contains.
What Happened In My 30 Day Trial?
Although some testers apply their cream 2x a day or more, I limited myself to 1x a day at night. I continued to take my regular HairTopia and other vitamins. I also continued to take my Probiotics in the AM and PM along with Candida Cleanse, Yeast Defense and my other candida supplements.
My hair did not seem to grow any faster than it normally does without the Monistat cream. I also noticed consistent itching along my scalp and a slight sensation of burning (I did not use the pepper combo).
I also experienced low grade headaches which I had not previously experienced. I think this method of scalp treatment could definitely be a problem for anyone with a history of migraine, sinus or chronic headaches. I also noticed a slight redness along my scalp, an on again/off again tenderness and a ringing in my ears right after I applied the mixture.
Long Naturally Curly Red Hair
I am assuming that the ringing in my ears was because the cream was impacting my sinus cavity in some manner.
My conclusion? My scalp is already as yeast free as it can be due to my extended use of daily anti-yeast internal supplementation.
Does this treatment really work? I think it works for some and not for others. I never discourage anyone from trying any new hair growth treatments but I do caution that you need to do your own careful research before undertaking this type of treatment.
Yes I did experience side effects with the Monistat. There were other trials I could have done including the following:
1. Using miconazole nitrate in as concentrate form as possible. Monistat has other ingredients as do some of the other name brand anti-itch creams.
2. Using the products less often (1x every other day or even 1x a week).
3. Using 2% of the miconazole instead of the 4%
4. Spending more time massaging the MN
Possible Side Effects
Long time users of the miconazole nitrate scalp treatments have reported that when they stop using the treatment they will often experience increased shedding due to stopping the treatments.
Other side effects include scalp burning, tingling, overall hair dryness and increase of headaches which can range from mild to intense. There could be many reasons for these types of side effects which I will explore in a future column.
The ingredients in Monistat and other related miconzaole nitrate formulations it that niconzaole nitrates are designed to cause instant increased blood flow to the areas by opening up the blood vessels so more blood can flow to the area.
Long Brunette Straight Hair
The good news? The increased blood flow will help with increased hair growth. Many believe that this treatment method is similar to how Rogaine works.
The bad news? It can cause intense headaches and may or may not be safe for people taking other heart medications. A form of nitrates are prescribed for people with a history of heart problems such as angina and congestive heart failure. Some users complain that their entire scalp feels like it is moving after they apply the MN, especially the 4% composition.
As I said earlier, with every experimental treatment there are benefits and also potential risks. Proceed only after you feel comfortable with all the possible side effects.
Final Warning Note
Please note that in no way is this Blog a recommendation for trying this treatment. If you decide to pursue this on your own be sure to first consult with your physician or if you are pregnant, nursing, have a history or chronic sinus problems, migraine headaches or chronic yeast overgrowth.
If you’ve tried this method of hair growth I would love to hear your feedback.
More Information
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January 4th, 2009 at 5:15 pm
[...] Monistat & Miconazole Nitrate For Hair Growth | HairBoutique.com Blog [...]
January 10th, 2009 at 3:26 am
Hello,
I would insist they give you the blood test for hormones. I have a 15yr old daughter that has been experiencing the same problem for the last 2 years. We finally found an endocrinologist that did a blood test and found a very high testosterone free level. She says this is most likely contributing to her hair loss. We just got this diagnosis a month ago so I can tell you if its working yet, but at least it would be something for you to check into.
January 12th, 2009 at 2:41 pm
That is hard to believe that Monistat can help grow hair. So now girls needs to worry about their guys taking their Monistat?!?
February 9th, 2009 at 8:22 pm
You are a very smart person!
February 16th, 2009 at 3:20 pm
Thanks alot for this great post, its my first time commenting, just wanted to say I enjoy your writing.
March 16th, 2009 at 8:31 pm
Very nice information. Thanks for this.
March 25th, 2009 at 4:34 pm
Great article, trying to subscribe to your site but Im having some troubles.
March 25th, 2009 at 3:54 pm
I really liked your blog!
March 31st, 2009 at 1:46 pm
Finally someone who can write a good blog ! I loved your post and will be telling others about it. Subscribing to your RSS feed now. Thanks
April 26th, 2009 at 6:05 am
Great work! I also have my own blog I just find it hard to write quality content like this.
I guess I really don’t have the time.
May 12th, 2009 at 7:35 pm
Nice Post….keep it up !!!! Good job
May 20th, 2009 at 6:17 am
Do let us know if you have up to date news…
May 27th, 2009 at 8:08 pm
I found your blog on google and read a few of your other posts. I just added you to my Google News Reader. Keep up the good work. Look forward to reading more from you in the future.
July 31st, 2009 at 7:11 am
hills prescription diet…
After reading your article I am left with the feeling that there is more to this topic than I originally thought….
August 18th, 2009 at 10:46 pm
Is this the only post on this?
August 25th, 2009 at 3:04 am
I am and have been using monistat for about a year now. The results are wonderful. Before i first started using it, i had cut my hair short due to bad ends…Since i’ve started using it i don’t have split ends and my hair is WAY longer…It’s a little past my shoulders, and i’m going for waist length hair at this point. I think a lot of it may be due to the fact i wear tracks, also before i’ve started using the cream i wore tracks…since the hair must be braided for tracks my hair has been in braids even before i’ve started using monistat…Making it that much healthier because it’s not tampered with when in braids. ALSO…Something positive about monistat is that it prevents FLAKES…I’m not sure if you took notice of this blog poster when using the cream, but it significantly works for flakes as well. The bad would be as you stated the headaches, but mines aren’t ridiculously bad…I have one right now…Lol.
September 17th, 2009 at 10:59 pm
Ijust started using monistat (3rd day), and I did notice a headache, but I thought it was due to a possible sinus infection. My scalps not sore anymore, and it feels healthier already. Too soon to give any real results, so I’ll post at a later date.
October 6th, 2009 at 7:51 am
I started using MN on August 17 and I’ve noticed growth and thickness. Because, I’ve read about the headaches, I made sure to add more oils to try and dilute the MN and I haven’t experienced any headaches. My mix includes JBCO, emu oil, avocado oil, sage and sulfur 8….so far so good. My plan is to use MN until December 17 and then switch to all natural growth aides. I’m trying MN to give my growth a boost and it has done just that.
October 6th, 2009 at 11:16 pm
Candis please update us with your results.
October 13th, 2009 at 4:20 am
I really liked your blog! Bookmarked for future references
October 16th, 2009 at 4:37 am
Hey, this is a great blog, very well thought out a and well written.
November 9th, 2009 at 6:19 pm
This actually worked for me. I used the generic brand and I mixed it with Motions hair grease, carrot oil, and olive oil hair grease. I’ve found that it works best when mixed with the olive oil hair grease. I Applied it to my scalp daily. Yes, your scalp may feel itchy but this is because you will have growing dandruff or the “good dandruff”. It also oxidize the scalp and helps the blood to ciculate. The generic brand is best because it’s not too strong.
November 18th, 2009 at 12:15 am
Really like this website, very well thought out a and well written
Great effort.
December 11th, 2009 at 2:43 am
I really liked your article.
Great Effort.
Keep up the good work.
December 11th, 2009 at 2:15 pm
A few points to add:
-Monistat is used for nursing mothers on the nipple to kill infections. Something that is that safe is certainly safe enough to use on your scalp.
-Monistat also works not only because it kills yeast, but also because it increases blood flow to the scalp, which is why the scalp tingles. Anti-dandruff shampoos also do the same.
-The headache probably comes from the yeast die off. When it dies off, it releases toxins which can cause headaches or burning. In people without other medical conditions, the side effects shouldn’t last.
December 18th, 2009 at 3:48 pm
Oh thanks!! My guy has gone thru a fortune regrowing his hair, this may work.
January 26th, 2010 at 11:15 pm
Hello. This is kind of an “unconventional” question , but have other visitors asked you how get the menu bar to look like you’ve got it? I also have a blog and am really looking to alter around the theme, however am scared to death to mess with it for fear of the search engines punishing me. I am very new to all of this …so i am just not positive exactly how to try to to it all yet. I’ll just keep working on it one day at a time Thanks for any help you can offer here.
February 4th, 2010 at 12:43 pm
Another interesting article from your blog
When will it stop…hopefully never
February 11th, 2010 at 2:04 am
Wonderful writing you are very thorugh. I will begin my trial tomorrow, I have been perm free for 6 months and I am beginning a natural hair challenge along with my sister, sister in law and 3 nieces. I started researching around August. I had a lot of time to do this since I was recovering from a supra cervical hysterectomy. So everything that I found is proven to be true. I like when someone begins their journey and post pics to share and show everyone that what they are doing does work. I want to include some of my favorites here so that some may join this challenge and have great results. MEGA TEX HAIR REBUILDER, AND MEGA TEX CELL GROWTH (AMAZON.COM), PURE SHEA BUTTER IN OIL FORM TO DILUTE PRODUCTS WHEN REQUIRED ALSO GREAT FOR THE SKIN AND FEET WITH THIS COLD WEATHER. NATURAL OILS SUCH AS OLIVE, EUCALYPTUS, JOJOBA ARE GREAT TOO. SHIKAKA OIL AN ALL NATURAL OIL MAINLY USED BY INDIANS AND EGYPTIANS, SULU HAIR OIL, HAIR ONE NATURAL SHAMPOO (COMPARED TO THE EXPENSIVE WEN SHAMPOO) GREAT PRODUCT.
I will continue to read and research and I will definitely post here as well. Good luck on your natural hair journey.
March 17th, 2010 at 12:00 am
I have been using the hard core Monistat 7, straight out of the tube on my dampened scalp. I started using it this last October and used it until February, giving myself a month break from it. I did I am now using it again. I have noticed that my naturally curly hair has grown very significantly in volume and some length. I am going to continue to use it for at least another 8 months. I don’t use it everyday though, but instead once every other day. I apply it to my scalp in the morning about 3 – 4 hours before I shower and then I wash it out. I have not experienced any side effects at all.
March 19th, 2010 at 8:00 pm
This actually worked for me. I used the generic brand and I mixed it with Motions hair grease, carrot oil, and olive oil hair grease. I’ve found that it works best when mixed with the olive oil hair grease. I Applied it to my scalp daily. Yes, your scalp may feel itchy but this is because you will have growing dandruff or the “good dandruff”. It also oxidize the scalp and helps the blood to ciculate. The generic brand is best because it’s not too strong.
March 19th, 2010 at 8:02 pm
very well written blog dude, keep it real yo!
Regards,
April 5th, 2010 at 8:43 pm
I love your post. I was seriously considering using MN prior to stumbling across this information in your blog. I too was diagnosed with overgrowth of yeast. I have the worst case of seborrheic dermatitis in my scalp. I would love to know exactly what your daily regime is to combat this condition naturally. Can you include the names of the specific brands that you use. I only use organic products but I haven’t found the right combination yet that gives me any relief.
Thanks a million
April 8th, 2010 at 8:53 am
Please let us in on the product…I too was diagnosed with overgrowth of yeast.
April 11th, 2010 at 9:18 am
Menopause Hair Loss…
Dry scalp, psoriases, sebhorrheic dermatitis of the scalp, and dandruff is not caused by frequent shampooing, either, but an excessive exposure to hard water, strong soaps and chemicals can aggravate already pre- existing condition by washing out valua…
April 28th, 2010 at 8:07 am
Very wll written blog I just wanted to inform you that nitrates are vasodialators. Vasodialators increase the size of blood vessels which increases blood flow but the major side effect of nitrates are headaches. Medication containing Nitrates are often used for patients with heart problems.
May 3rd, 2010 at 10:25 am
the redness and itchiness of Psoriasis can be relieved easily by corticosteroids.;’`
May 5th, 2010 at 10:33 pm
my friend is a Psoriasis sufferer for several years and there seems to be no permanent cure for it. “
May 7th, 2010 at 12:10 am
you mention the use of Olive Oil, for people that may not know, Olive Oil is a catalyst for athletes foot infection and may also boost other yeast/fungal infections as well. I read a website posted by a doctor that stated he used olive oil as a catalyst when testing for infections on people. I found reference to it in a few old journal articles. Seems like it’s one of those old pieces of information everyone used to know and now everyone has forgotten. I’d go with the jojoba oil, also, what’s the sulfur 8? been looking to try sulfur on my scalp, I heard it’s a good antifungal but can’t figure how how/what to buy.
June 13th, 2010 at 5:54 am
Jojoba oil is really great for acne because it helps balance facial oil.`,`
June 17th, 2010 at 9:01 pm
Olive oil is very tasty and has some nutty taste too.’”"
June 21st, 2010 at 10:57 am
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June 23rd, 2010 at 9:01 pm
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June 25th, 2010 at 10:43 pm
WOW!! Im kinda confused now, I have been hearing so many good review on how monistat has really helped grow hair FAST! But i have suffered from migrans in the past and it is still off and on. I really dont want to take the chance and stir things up to where they come back because of this treatment
I also was considering ovation cell therapy but at the price of $100.00 I would rather at least try this out first just to see if it does wonders for me. I am simply looking for a product that will help my hair grow fast! Mine grows so S-L-O-W and i have no problems with fungus or anything. I will continue to reserch different things and see if anything comes up. Thanks so much for the wonderful blog and to everyone who has posted it really helps people like me who just want a quick fix.
July 24th, 2010 at 3:19 am
Jojoba oil is also great for acne sufferers because it can penetrate oily pores.~.-
July 26th, 2010 at 9:21 pm
Olive oil is very tasty and it has very low saturated fats.*;~
August 13th, 2010 at 2:05 am
Please keep it up. I cant wait to read whats next.and thx!
September 4th, 2010 at 12:08 pm
i heard a lot about that in the last few days and i imagine it might be true. Even though i think everyone is responsible for himself.
September 9th, 2010 at 7:14 pm
i used jojoba oil on my oily acneic face and it is good for unblocking blackheads,~;
September 12th, 2010 at 8:54 pm
olive oil is a great additive on foods since it has low saturated fat”‘:
September 17th, 2010 at 1:28 pm
Thanks for the Information, thanks for this great Post. I will come back later !
September 29th, 2010 at 10:53 pm
Hi all
This blog is very nice & really i got very informative knowledge.
October 5th, 2010 at 2:00 pm
Another great post! I’m with you in saying how helpful probiotics are in the body. I also believe that being healthy outside is a manifestation of how healthy you are inside. A healthy diet plus controlling the yeast population in body can make a big difference when it comes to overall beauty and health.
October 15th, 2010 at 8:25 pm
I’m starting my monistat treatment today. I hope it works.
November 6th, 2010 at 11:56 pm
Thank you for this honest and informative article. I had never heard of Monistat as a growth aid until right now and I’m glad that somebody has shared the good and bad about their experience with the cream! Thanks so much for sharing.
December 29th, 2010 at 1:01 am
I began my mn challenge nov 27 2010. I am seeing amazing results. My edges were completely gone, balding spots as well as, very T-H-I-N hair. Bald spots are just about gone and now my hair is beginning to fill in and I now have a hair line. However I mix mn with sulfa 8 and wild growth and apply hemp oil to edges. I also make sure that I am doing the co-wash on the third day and wash and condition on the seventh day.
I have tried many methods to repair and regrow my hair without success or very slow results. So far so good without any side effects. I will continue the regimen for 4 months.
April 8th, 2011 at 7:19 am
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April 14th, 2011 at 9:51 pm
You have a very nice and motivating posting style, it makes me read your articles with great interest.
April 26th, 2011 at 5:34 am
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May 3rd, 2011 at 6:04 pm
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May 5th, 2011 at 7:45 pm
Thank you for posting this information to us. This is very useful and helpful. Its nice and great. Keep posting…
God bless
May 8th, 2011 at 6:38 pm
Thank you for posting this idea to us. This is very useful and helpful to everyone. Hope you could able to post more about this.
Thank you and God Bless!
May 12th, 2011 at 4:53 pm
Hi,
So sorry for the inconvenience. We are working on it. Unfortunately a lot of the browsers are making it difficult to sync everything up. Thanks for your comment. It is very much appreciated.
May 13th, 2011 at 11:02 am
Nice and a very informative article. I never know that it can help grow hair. I do have problems with my hair too because as I comb it a lot of hair fell into the floor. I’ll try taking monistat and miconazole and see if it really works. Thanks!
May 15th, 2011 at 9:01 am
Hi,
Thanks so much for your feedback.
The key is to use monistat and/or miconazole on your scalp but not take it internally without a doctor’s prior approval. Both are considered drugs although monistat is sold over the counter now in large mass market drug and related stores. Miconazole may or may not require a prescription. Both can alter your normal flora so if you want to try it, only use it externally if you do this on your own without a physican’s advice.
May 15th, 2011 at 5:08 pm
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May 24th, 2011 at 2:50 pm
[...] women resort to less popular methods for getting healthier hair, like using miconazole nitrate (yeast cream), taking birth control pills, and [...]
June 13th, 2011 at 3:28 pm
Thank you. I have tried many methods to repair and regrow my hair without success or very slow results. So far so good without any side effects. I will continue the regimen for 4 months.
July 10th, 2011 at 7:58 am
Heymate,
This is an excellent page for such a complicated topic to discuss.
I look forward to reading many more excellent posts like these.
Thanks
July 28th, 2011 at 6:38 am
Good stuff, thank you for sharing.
September 26th, 2011 at 8:47 pm
I just cut my hair and it looks eeeerie, great topic.
October 3rd, 2011 at 6:06 am
I’m prone to yeast on my skin when I sweat. Maybe that’s what’s exacerbating my hair loss?
October 6th, 2011 at 10:53 pm
Hi there, I discovered your web site via Google at the same time as looking for a comparable subject, your web site came up, it seems great. I have bookmarked it in my google bookmarks.
October 17th, 2011 at 7:06 am
[...]Monistat & Miconazole Nitrate For Hair Growth – HairBoutique.com Blog[...]…