What it is

Aminexil is a small molecule structurally related to minoxidil, launched by L'Oréal's Vichy brand and sold in ampoules and shampoos. The brand's stated mechanism is preventing hardening of collagen around the follicle (perifollicular fibrosis). The original manufacturer papers could not be verified. It is sold as a cosmetic in the US, EU and UK.

How it works

Only the manufacturer claim exists. See kopexil for a related compound.

What the studies show

In a 28-day rat regrowth model of 32 animals, 2% minoxidil induced regrowth, while the Aminexil product (Vichy Dercos) showed the lowest hair-growth effect on weight and morphometry. Another product, Kerium, beat the control. These were commercial products with unknown formulas. Orasan 2016
A search of the medical literature found no randomized trial of aminexil in people.

How it's used in studies

The rat study applied 0.3 mL of product daily for 28 days.

Side effects and safety

The lactation database says maternal topical use should pose low risk to older full-term infants but might be best avoided with preterm or newborn infants, and that there are no clinical data (LactMed 2025). No pregnancy data were found.

Bottom line

Weak evidence: the only independent data are from animals, and unfavourable. It is not a substitute for minoxidil. Discuss with a doctor.

Studies 2

Orasan MS et al. Topical products for human hair regeneration: a comparative study on an animal model. Ann Dermatol. 2016

Design: animal
People: 32
Duration: 28 days
Who: rats

Tested: 2% minoxidil vs Aminexil product vs Kerium product vs sham

Result: Minoxidil induced regrowth; the Aminexil product showed the lowest hair-growth effect of the three products.

Read the study ↗

Aminexil. Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed). 2025

Design: other
Who: breastfeeding safety entry

Tested: topical aminexil

Result: No clinical data on lactation; maternal topical use should pose low risk to older full-term infants but may be best avoided with preterm or newborn infants.