Rogaine (USA Brand) or Regaine (UK Brand) Minoxidil is an effective topical product that is used to treat male pattern hair loss (hereditary hair loss) and thinning hair. It is currently the only treatment that is available over-the-counter that contains the active ingredient Minoxidil. Minoxidil is a clinically proven ingredient that can help halt and in some cases reverse hereditary hair loss in males. It was first proposed as a treatment for hair loss after it was observed that patients taking the tablet form of the drug to bring down high blood pressure experienced the unintended side effect of noticeable hair growth. After further clinical research, it became apparent that applying the product topically to the scalp can stimulate new hair growth in some males, and people started using it specifically for this purpose.
How does Rogaine-Regaine Minoxidil work?
While it is not yet clear exactly how Rogaine-Regaine Minoxidil stimulates new hair growth, it is known that the small blood vessels that are located on the scalp become dilated following its application, thereby increasing the blood circulation that is able to reach the all-important hair follicles. This is likely to be a significant contributory reason to the success of this treatment. Rogaine-Regaine Minoxidil works by stopping any further hair loss and also boosting regrowth.
Who are the main target groups for Rogaine-Regaine Minoxidil?
Positive results have been reported by younger males who have only been experiencing symptoms of hair loss for a relatively short length of time and males who only have a small bald area. Men with larger areas of baldness or those who have been facing hair loss over a protracted period of time are less likely to achieve the desired outcome. The very best results have been observed in males between the age of 18 and 49.
How do I apply Rogaine-Regaine Minoxidil?
Rogaine-Regaine Minoxidil is very quick and simple to apply. It is available in both solution and mousse form. Both types of treatment should be applied twice a day. If you are using the solution, simply apply 1 millilitre of the solution and massage it gently into the affected areas. If you are using the foam, you just need to apply a quantity of one gram (around half a cap) into your hand, and then apply it to the affected area, massaging it in with your fingertips. Do not use more than the recommended amount, and do not apply more than twice per day.
Keep in mind that you might need to stick to the treatment for a number of weeks before you see signs of improvement. At first, you are likely to find that any hair growth is very fluffy and soft and therefore might be difficult to see. This will lessen as time passes. However, not everyone will see an improvement to the condition of their hair while using the product . If you have not noticed a change after 16 weeks, you should stop using Rogaine-Regaine Minoxidil. Always wash your hands thoroughly before and after applying the solution and the mousse, and take care that you apply it only to the affected area on your scalp.
How long do I need to apply Rogaine-Regaine Minoxidil?
Regaine Minoxidil is designed for twice-daily application directly to the scalp. If you do experience a positive result, it is important to remember that you will need to keep using the product on an on-going basis to ensure that the new growth continues.
What are the main side effects of Rogaine-Regaine Minoxidil?
Side effects are rare when using Rogaine-Regaine Minoxidil because the topical nature of the product means that very little of it is absorbed into the blood stream. Keep in mind that you might observe some shedding at the beginning of treatment as old hair is lost to be replaced by new growth.. If this persists, stop applying Rogaine-Regaine Minoxidil and consult your GP.
If you experience symptoms such as quickening heart rate, chest pain, swollen feet or hands, dizziness or faintness, noticeable irritation or redness of the scalp, or a sudden weight gain that cannot be explained by changes to your lifestyle, you should stop using the product immediately and seek medical advice. If you suffer from heart disease, palpitations or an irregular heartbeat, you should consult your health provider before using this product.
Some men might experience other side effects including headaches, temporary skin irritation, low blood pressure, changes to the texture and/or colour of the hair, and shortness of breath. If you have any concerns at all about your reaction to Regaine Minoxidil during your treatment, you should talk to your pharmacist or doctor.
Who shouldn’t use Rogaine-Regaine Minoxidil?
Rogaine-Regaine Minoxidil is not suitable for females. It is contraindicated for males suffering from any of the following conditions: hypertension; skin conditions including eczema, psoriasis or sunburn; those who shave their heads; those who have experienced a hair loss onset that is patchy or sudden; those who have no known family history of male pattern hair loss; and those for whom the cause of hair loss has not been determined. It should not be used by anyone who is allergic to any of its ingredients. If you do experience an allergic reaction of any sort, it is important to cease application and consult your GP.
Does Rogaine-Regaine Minoxidil affect any other medications I am taking?
You should not use Rogaine-Regaine Minoxidil if you are currently on any high blood pressure medication. This is due to the fact that Rogaine-Regaine Minoxidil could theoretically have the effect of enhancing the performance of this type of medicine, thus leading to feelings of dizziness. In addition, certain other topical medications such as retinoids and corticosteroids can lead to increased skin permeability. You should not start treatment with Rogaine-Regaine Minoxidil if you are currently using any other topical scalp medications because this could lead to more Rogaine-Regaine Minoxidil than is recommended being absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream, thereby increasing the risk of any potential side effects.