Should I exfoliate my skin before applying?

I’ve been using foam for 2 months as a Middle Eastern with my family all having thick beards. I just have small patches but I haven’t noticed much progress in 2 months of using it, only a little. I’m wondering maybe it’s because I’m exfoliating before I apply minoxidil?. Can someone let me know if I should be exfoliating and drying before applying, or should I just wash with cold water and dry. Thanks