Rogaine Review

Rogaine is a popular form of hair loss treatment, one of the few that are FDA approved.  While many treatments on the market utilize natural and botanical supplements, the effective chemicals used in Rogaine required special consideration by the FDA for approval.

Rogaine is a topical hair treatment typically used twice daily.  This product is intended to help reduce hair loss due to genetic pattern baldness.  Men, and women who use the special female Rogaine formula, can experience a re-growth of hair in follicles that were minimized due to the genetic effects of DHT on hair follicles.

The active ingredient in Rogaine is Minoxidil 2% or 5%.  5% minoxidil is considered extra strength and should only be used by men.  Minoxidil helps with circulation and blood flow to the hair follicles and prevents the shrinking effects of DHT, the hormone associated with genetic hair loss.  DHT causes hair follicles to shrink, eventually halting the production of hair.  Users who begin Rogaine treatments soon after the first signs of genetic hair thinning can experience thicker, fuller hair, and even re-growth of some hair after about 3 to 4 months, though a certain amount of natural hair loss may be experienced during the first few weeks of use.

Benefits of Rogaine

The benefits of Rogaine are the stimulation of blood flow to hair follicles.  Minoxidil helps hair follicles fight the genetic effects of DHT, which causes them to shrink and stop producing hair.  A full size hair follicle will likely continue its natural hair growth cycle.

Users who experience the most noticable improvement are those who start Rogaine treatment immediately after the first signs of genetic pattern hair loss.  Treatment must continue if hair loss is to be prevented.  Once the treatment stops, the natural progression of hair loss will continue.

Method of Treatment

Typically, Rogaine is foam that is applied to the hair twice daily.  It is recommended that users leave the product in for at least four hours before washing.  After the application dries, individuals can typically use their normal hair care products, such as gel.  To determine the true effectiveness of Rogaine, individuals are encouraged to use the product for at least 6 months to determine results.

Costs of Rogaine

Typical containers of foam Rogaine can be purchased for about $35 to $39.

Side Effects

Typical side effects that may be experienced after using Rogaine may be scalp irritation or redness.  In smaller cases, users may experience chest pain, faintness, or dizziness.  Users who experience these symptoms are encouraged to call a doctor.   Rogaine Extra Strength in the 5% formulation is not recommended for women, and the lower dose of 2% minoxidil Rogaine is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breast feeding.