About Us

A personal note from Vladimir Fanshil & Eleanor Lyons

Live at Yours began in the most unexpected way — in our own living room. In 2020, when the world fell silent, we refused to believe that music should exist only on screens. So we gathered a handful of people, pulled the chairs close, and performed for twenty guests at a time. Those evenings were small, fragile, unforgettable — and they reminded us why we became musicians: to share something real, something human, something that only exists when people come together.

A New Way to Experience Music

In the first years, we travelled across NSW and the ACT, giving more than 50 performances in lounge rooms, coffee roasteries, tin sheds in the outback, art galleries, churches, synagogues and regional theatres.

It was in those intimate settings that we connected deeply with locals, listened to their feedback, and discovered what Australians truly value in live music: informal yet refined, relaxed yet deeply sincere, intimate yet world-class.

Those conversations shaped everything — from our welcoming tone to having no intervals, allowing the emotional arc to flow without interruption. This is how we crafted the ultimate listening experience we offer today: personal, natural and genuinely shared.

From a lounge room to a national stage

Live at Yours has now grown far beyond our living room — into concert spaces across Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Canberra, Orange, Castlemaine and beyond — yet the essence remains unchanged.

Every venue is chosen for its story and atmosphere. Every performance is lit and shaped to feel close, warm and immersive. And every artist who joins us shares our belief in vulnerability, honesty and connection.

World-class artists, up close

Extraordinary artists, shared in intimate spaces — where every detail comes alive.

Richard Tognetti

Yamen Saadi

Alexander Gavrylyuk

Emily Sun

Elena Kats-Chernin

Andrew Haveron

Kristian Winther

Rosanna Rolton

Vatche Jambazian

Elina Faskhi

Stefanie Farrands

Simon Tedeschi

Committed to the next generation

As Live at Yours grows, so does our responsibility to young musicians. Through masterclasses, mentoring, and partnerships with ANAM and the Sydney Conservatorium, we help the next generation experience the same intimacy and inspiration that shaped our early years.

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Thank you for being part of this journey!
We can’t wait to welcome you — up close, and personal.

Thinking About Buying Minoxidil? Let's Start At The Beginning – An Accidental Discovery. Visit Our Pharmacy ↓

Minoxidil: An Australian Doctor’s Complete Guide to Thicker, Fuller Hair

By Dr. Emily Chen, MBBS, FRACGP — A doctor’s perspective on the gold-standard topical treatment for hair loss, and how to use it safely and effectively in Australia.

Attention: Hair Loss After 30 Is More Common Than You Think

If you’re over 30 and have noticed more hair on your pillow, a widening part, a receding hairline, or a thinning crown, you are not alone. By age 35, around 40% of Australian men and a significant number of women show signs of androgenetic alopecia — pattern hair loss. The emotional toll is real: many of my patients tell me they feel less confident at work, avoid photos, or spend hours trying to style around bald spots. The good news? You don’t have to accept it as “just ageing.” Minoxidil is one of the most effective, accessible, and clinically proven treatments available without a prescription in Australia.

Interest: What Is Minoxidil and Why Do Doctors Trust It?

Minoxidil was originally developed as a blood pressure medication, but researchers noticed an unexpected side effect: increased hair growth. Today, topical minoxidil is TGA-approved in Australia for the treatment of hereditary hair loss in both men and women. It works by prolonging the growth phase of hair follicles, improving blood flow and nutrient delivery to the scalp, and stimulating dormant follicles to produce thicker, stronger hairs.

Clinical studies consistently show that regular use of 5% minoxidil can slow hair loss and promote visible regrowth in 60–70% of users after 4–6 months. It is available over the counter at Australian pharmacies as a liquid or foam, in 2% and 5% strengths. Below is a quick guide:

I often recommend starting with the 5% foam for men and 2% solution for women, but individual needs vary. Your Australian pharmacist can help you choose.

Desire: Specialist Tips to Maximise Results and Minimise Side Effects

As a doctor, I know that the difference between success and frustration with minoxidil often comes down to how you use it. Here are the practical, evidence-informed answers to the questions my patients over 30 ask most.

Minoxidil and LED Light Therapy for Hair

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) devices, such as LED caps or combs, are popular in Australia. There is emerging evidence that combining minoxidil with LLLT may produce better results than either treatment alone. LED light is thought to stimulate cellular energy in hair follicles, while minoxidil extends the growth phase. If you are using both, apply minoxidil first and wait until it is completely dry (about 30–60 minutes) before using your LED device. This prevents interference and avoids scalp irritation. My advice: if budget allows, a quality LED device used 3–4 times a week can be a worthwhile addition — but minoxidil remains the foundation.

Minoxidil and Contact Dermatitis Patch Test

Some patients develop redness, itching, or flaking after starting minoxidil. Often this is due to the propylene glycol in the liquid, not the minoxidil itself. Before giving up, I recommend a simple patch test. Apply a small amount of minoxidil to the inner forearm twice daily for 3–5 days. If no reaction occurs, the scalp irritation may be from concurrent products or over-application. If you do react, switch to the foam formulation (which is propylene glycol-free) or ask your pharmacist about a compounded, low-irritant base. Never ignore true allergic reactions — see your GP for assessment.

Minoxidil and Steroid Use for Hair

For patients with significant scalp inflammation, seborrhoeic dermatitis, or irritant reactions from minoxidil, a doctor may prescribe a short course of a topical corticosteroid (e.g., hydrocortisone 1% or betamethasone) to calm the skin. This does not mean minoxidil is failing; it’s simply managing the environment so minoxidil can be absorbed properly. I often advise using the steroid in the morning and minoxidil at night, or using the steroid for 1–2 weeks before reintroducing minoxidil. Always follow your doctor’s directions — long-term steroid use on the face or scalp can thin the skin.

Minoxidil Pharmacist Advice Australia

Australian pharmacists are an underused resource. They can explain the difference between brands, how to apply correctly, what to do if you miss a dose, and when to see a doctor. In Australia, minoxidil is available without prescription from pharmacies, but that doesn’t mean you should self-diagnose. I encourage patients to ask their pharmacist: “Is minoxidil right for my type of hair loss?” Pharmacists can also check for interactions with other scalp products and recommend a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to support scalp health.

Minoxidil for Beard Redness and Peeling

Many men over 30 use minoxidil off-label to improve patchy beard growth. While it can work, the facial skin is more sensitive than the scalp, so redness, dryness, and peeling are common. To reduce this: use the 5% foam rather than liquid, apply only a small amount (0.5 mL) once daily, and moisturise the area 30 minutes after application. If peeling persists, try a lower strength or reduce frequency. Never apply minoxidil to broken or sunburned skin, and be patient — beard gains can take 6–12 months.

Minoxidil for Curly or Coily Hair Application

Patients with curly, coily, or textured hair often ask if minoxidil will disrupt their hairstyle or if the liquid will run off. The key is to part the hair in sections and apply the dropper or foam directly to the scalp, not the hair shaft. Use a fine-tooth comb or your fingertips to create multiple small parts across the thinning area. For foam, press the nozzle against the scalp and dispense a small amount, then gently massage with fingertips. Avoid over-saturation, which can cause build-up and itching. Applying at night before bed can be easier, but ensure the product is dry before lying down to prevent transfer to pillowcases.

Minoxidil and Iron Supplementation

Iron deficiency is a common, often overlooked contributor to hair shedding, especially in women over 30 with heavy periods or vegetarian/vegan diets. Minoxidil works on the follicle, but if your body lacks iron, hair growth may be suboptimal. I routinely check ferritin (stored iron) levels in patients with thinning hair. If ferritin is below 30–50 ng/mL, I recommend iron supplementation under medical supervision, alongside minoxidil. Do not self-prescribe high-dose iron — excess iron can be harmful. A simple blood test from your GP can guide you.

Minoxidil and How to Clean Applicator

Hygiene matters. A dirty dropper or foam nozzle can harbour bacteria and cause scalp infections or folliculitis. After each use, wipe the dropper or nozzle with a clean tissue. Do not rinse the dropper with water and return it to the bottle, as this can dilute the solution. Once a week, wash the dropper and cap in warm, soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and allow to air dry completely before reassembling. If you use a separate applicator (e.g., a scalp massager or brush), clean it with alcohol wipes after each use. This small habit protects your scalp and keeps the product effective.

Action: Take Control of Your Hair Today

Hair loss is not a life sentence, and you don’t have to wait until it’s “bad enough” to act. The earlier you start minoxidil, the more hair you can preserve. In my practice, patients who commit to twice-daily application, manage irritation properly, and address underlying factors like iron deficiency see the best results. You can purchase minoxidil over the counter from any registered Australian pharmacy — no prescription required. Look for TGA-listed brands, check the strength that suits you, and ask the pharmacist for personalised advice.

If you’re ready to stop watching your hair thin and start regrowing your confidence, talk to your doctor or pharmacist today. With the right routine, the next six months could look very different in the mirror.

**Minoxidil Options in Australia – Doctor’s Comparison**
Formulation	Strength	Best For	Application
Topical solution (liquid)	2% or 5%	Precise scalp application; longer hair	1 mL twice daily (or as directed)
Foam	5%	Quick-drying, less irritation; thinning crowns	Half a capful twice daily
Combination with other actives (e.g., topical finasteride, caffeine)	Varies	Those wanting multi-action approach (compounded)	As prescribed by doctor

**Common Minoxidil Side Effects and Doctor-Approved Solutions**
Side Effect	Likely Cause	Solution
Scalp itching, redness	Propylene glycol sensitivity	Switch to foam; patch test; short-term topical steroid as directed by doctor
Initial increased shedding (weeks 2–6)	Old hairs making way for new growth	Continue use; this is a positive sign, not a reason to stop
Facial hair growth (unwanted)	Product dripping onto face	Apply carefully; wash hands after; use foam to reduce run-off
Dry, flaky scalp	Alcohol base	Use moisturising scalp serum; reduce to once daily if stable

Disclaimer: This article is for general information and does not replace individual medical advice. Always read the product label and consult a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment.