Sarasota

Minoxidil (Rogaine) for Hair Loss

Located in Sarasota, Florida, and serving all of greater Tampa Bay, Hair Transplant Center provides exceptional service and results designed to help our clients to restore their confidence.

Rogaine has become a popular remedy for hair loss, and many physicians have recommended it. But few people know the history of the drug and how it came to be used for this purpose.

Nearly 70 years ago, scientists at the Upjohn Company developed a medication they thought would effectively cure ulcers. The drug, known as minoxidil, failed miserably at its intended purpose. But researchers noticed that the blood vessels of study participants opened more quickly, allowing blood to flow easily and smoothly. Because of this finding, the drug was FDA-approved in the late 1970s for treating high blood pressure.

Marketed as Loniten, the drug exhibited an unexpected side effect, as those taking it for high blood pressure grew more hair. This discovery led to an additional patent, and minoxidil was rebranded as Rogaine, a hair loss treatment for men. In 1991, Rogaine became available for women and is now available globally without a prescription.

Minoxidil (Rogaine)

Rogaine is an FDA-approved hair loss drug, available over the counter without a prescription. Rogaine is a topical liquid or foam solution appropriate for both male and female pattern baldness. (androgenetic alopecia)

Minoxidil is effective against only some types of hair loss and must be used daily to experience results. Even then, most do not regain all of their lost hair, and regrowth is temporary, falling out once usage is discontinued.

How Minoxidil Works

Minoxidil is a vasodilator, which means it can dilate blood vessels and prevent arteries and veins’ from tightening and narrowing. Widened blood vessels facilitate blood flow and circulation in the body.

Doctors are unsure as to how this process results in hair growth. Some attribute the increased blood flow to the scalp, while others theorize that the minoxidil elongates a follicular enzyme called ATP.

It should be noted that minoxidil may also initiate hair growth on other parts of the body. This happens most frequently to women, but it can also happen to men. Ask your doctor about dosage if this is not desired.

Approved Uses

Topical minoxidil treats hair loss – primarily male pattern baldness – in adults 18 years and older.

Dosage

Minoxidil can be purchased over the counter as a liquid (minoxidil drops) or foam solution, in 2% and 5% formulations. When minoxidil is appropriately used, it stimulates new growth and helps to create a fuller, thicker head of hair.

How To Use Minoxidil for Hair Loss

Before applying liquid Rogaine, the head scalp must be clean and dry. The hair is then parted in the affected area, and the liquid is spread evenly over bald and thinning spots. Let the scalp dry thoroughly before adding hair products or going to bed.

To properly apply the foam solution, hands should be rinsed in cold water and dried thoroughly. The foam is rubbed directly into the scalp and should be allowed to dry before styling hair or going to bed.

Additional tips for the safe and effective use of minoxidil include the following:

* Minoxidil should not be used on colored or chemically treated hair.

* Minoxidil should not be used on any other parts of the body.

* Minoxidil should only be applied to a healthy scalp, free of cuts, scrapes, or infections.

* Alcohol in the product can irritate and dry the skin and scalp.

* Always wash hands thoroughly after applying the solution.

* Avoid getting minoxidil in the eyes. Rinse eyes with cool water should contact occur.

The hair growth process requires patience. It can take four months before any changes are evident. Talk to your doctor if your condition does not improve after four to six months. You may need to try alternative medications such as finasteride or consider a hair transplant.

Side Effects

While most clients do not experience side effects while using Rogaine, burning or redness at the application site may occur for a short time. Although rare, the skin can absorb the medication, producing more serious reactions such as the following:

Increased hair loss,
Inflammation at the hair roots
Unwanted facial or body hair
Swelling in the face, scalp, hands, or feet
Changes in vision
Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
Severe dizziness, fainting, or fatigue
Unusual weight gain
Frequent, persistent headaches
Difficulty breathing when lying down

Should any of the following conditions occur, stop taking the medication immediately and seek medical assistance.

Does Minoxidil (Rogaine) Work for Hair Loss?

Rogaine (minoxidil) helps those with male pattern baldness achieve new hair growth. Rogaine does not require a prescription.

Some people find minoxidil sufficient for their hair restoration goals, while others require finasteride. A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology proved that both treatments are beneficial. Deciding between finasteride and minoxidil depends on personal needs and product experience. Your doctor can assist in determining which treatment is best for you.

Are You Ready To Take the Next Step?

If you have been using minoxidil according to recommendations but have yet to experience the results you were hoping for, take to your doctor about alternative treatments such as FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction).

Browse our website for before-and-after photos to learn more about the topical and surgical options available at the Hair Transplant Center – Sarasota.

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