Rogaine As A Hair Restoration Medication| Questions and Answers

Most men are familiar with very basic information about Rogaine (Minoxidil). This includes:

(1) the medication can be purchased without a prescription at most drug stores

(2) Rogaine is applied topically twice a day

(3) Minoxidil works by increasing blood flow to the scalp

Before going out to purchase the product, there is other information think about

(1) Whether or not to choose the 2% or the 5% version

(2) The fact that Rogaine is available as a liquid or a foam

(3) Rogaine can be used in conjunction with prescription medications like ketoconazole shampoo or tretinoin.

The drug can even be used simultaneously with Propecia. These types of regimens will, of course, need to be discussed with a doctor who specializes in the restoration of hair. It will also be important to consider where Rogaine will be used. Those who are suffering only from hairline recession may be encouraged to know that the drug is not restricted for use only on the crown.

Which Product to Buy

It may be a good idea to have this discussion with your physician. Generally though, individuals start with 2% to see what benefits ensue from using this concentration. And if a greater strength seems to be needed, then men can use the 5%. 2% is considered to be safe for women.

But it is possible for females to use the 5% version under the guidance of a dermatologist. In addition to the concentration, another consideration is whether or not to use the foam or the liquid for restoring hair. The liquid is the original product version. And the foam is a newer development that was intended to reduce the greasy texture of the medication.

The original Rogaine contains propylene glycol which is intended to enhance the ability of the Minoxidil to penetrate the skin. The foam does not have this. Consumers should be aware that propylene glycol is a form of toxin, which is considered to be moderate in severity. So it would be important to clarify one’s priorities. Some doctors recommend using the liquid product by doubling the quantity at night for a once a day application.

This can then be washed away in the morning to avoid a greasy look. Also, using Rogaine once a day is far more convenient for many people.

How Do Prescription Drugs Work With Rogaine?

Ketoconazole occupies androgen receptors on the hair follicles to block DHT, which is a primary contributor to miniaturization in those who are genetically predisposed to pattern baldness. Also, tretinoin may be prescribed to enhance the skin’s permeability to Minoxidil.

Where to Use Rogaine as a Hair Restoration Drug

Rogaine was only tested for use on the crown. But it seems that this information has been misinterpreted to mean that the medication will only work in this region. The hair follicles and the overall physiology of the scalp is the same in both the crown and the hairline. Therefore, individuals with hairline recession should feel secure in using the product in both areas instead of waiting until baldness and thinning affect the crown.

hair restoration drug| Rogaine- Minoxidil

consumers should educate themselves on the use of Rogaine for their hair restoration needs

It is a common tendency for people to find themselves compelled by promising claims which offer some hope of restoring lost hair. However, with so many companies developing various treatment products and services, it is essential for consumers to arm themselves with the right knowledge so that they can ask the right questions and better navigate the information they come across. The use of hair growth products is obviously an environmental approach to addressing pattern baldness and thinning. But since the condition is genetic in origin, does it make sense to use such items? The answer is yes and no.

The Interplay Between Genes and the Environment

A person’s DNA may result in the creation of hair follicles that are sensitive to the effects of DHT. However, it is possible for environmental factors to facilitate or slow down the rate of hair loss. Unhealthy lifestyle habits can impede processes which normally contribute to the production of hair shafts. More research is showing a link between severe manifestations of baldness and variables like high levels of sun exposure, alcohol consumption and smoking. While healthier lifestyle habits won’t completely override genetic predisposition, they can help slow down the rate of hair loss.

The Use of FDA Approved Products for Hair Restoration

At the moment, there are only two products approved by the FDA for the management of androgenic alopecia.

These include:

(1) Rogaine

(2) Propecia

Rogaine and Propecia are not wonder cures. Their effects will differ across patients. Some individuals will experience regrowth, while others will not. These medications have the most potential for the earliest stages of pattern baldness. And, at the very least, they can be useful for limiting the extent of the condition. Therefore, these are the primary products that doctors recommend for those interested in restoring hair and preventing further loss .

There are other prescription medications that may be used on an off label basis through a physician’s discretion. Rogaine primarily works as a vasodilator for increasing blood supply to the scalp. It is also believed to work on other processes that facilitate hair growth. Propecia works on the primary biochemical pathway that leads to hair loss, which includes the breakdown of testosterone into DHT. DHT is what contributes to the miniaturization of hair follicles. Although certain types of laser combs have also been issued FDA clearance, they have only been approved for safety. These products do not have the backing of clinical trials for their effectiveness in regrowing hair.

Other Commercially Available Products For Restoring Hair

While it is possible for environmental agents to slow down the rate of hair loss, science has not yet found actual ingredients that can be packaged into products that will reliably grow hair. In fact, this search has been ongoing since the start of written history. There are many cases of optimistic individuals who spent exorbitant amounts of money on products that gave them no results. This is why it is important to always questions claims and other forms of surface information prior to making a purchase decision. Also, when in doubt, ask for advice from a physician.