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Rogaine / Regaine: Answers To Frequently Asked QuestionsNote: Rogaine and Regaine refer to the same product. The brand name Rogaine is used in the United States and Canada while the brand name Regaine is used in Europe and the Asia-Pacific region.
What is the background to Rogaine / Regaine? In 1988 the Pharmacia & Upjohn Company introduced the first drug approved by the FDA to combat hair loss. Minoxidil is the main ingredient of Rogaine / Regaine. Because of an excellent safety record, in 1996 Rogaine / Regaine became available over-the-counter. How does it work? Minoxidil, the main ingredient, is in the class of treatments called "Potassium Channel Openers". It works to stimulate hair follicles into growth. Although the method is not fully understood, it is known that opening the potassium channels in the hair follicles stimulates new hair growth. Who is Rogaine / Regaine for? In its 2% form Rogaine / Regaine has been approved for use in both men and women. However the 5% is typically only for use in men. Women sometimes use the 5% when the 2% form does not work for them, but there may be side effects such as unwanted facial hair growth. It is usually best to start with the 2% solution if a person is just starting to lose hair. What are the ingredients of Rogaine / Regaine? Minoxidil, Alcohol, 60% v/v, Propylene Glycol, and Purified Water. Does Rogaine / Regaine have any side effects? Although uncommon, some report irritation, itching, inflammation, and redness where it is applied. Use of a mild shampoo, and a mild dandruff shampoo a couple of times a week normally reduces or solves the problem. Skin soothing products like Emu Oil, Folligen Lotion, Aloe Vera, Tricomin, or Prox-N can also help greatly. If itching persists, discontinue Rogaine / Regaine and consult your physician. Are there any precautions? The daily dosage should not be exceeded as the main ingredient, Minoxidil, is absorbed into the system. Rogaine / Regaine should not be used if a person has any of these systemic effects:
Additionally, it should not be used on a scalp that is inflamed, infected, painful or irritated, or suffering from abrasions, psoriasis, or even sunburn, as this may increase the absorption. When can results be expected? Some may be alarmed to see hair shedding after using Rogaine / Regaine. This is normal, due to the cycles of hair growth. New hair starts to grow for some after about four months if Rogaine / Regaine has been used as instructed. In other cases men see new growth after about eight months and women after about twelve months. Note: Rogaine / Regaine overrides the effect of hair loss, it does not solve the underlying cause. It takes time to build new hair. It is essential to stick with the treatment for at least four months. How is Rogaine / Regaine applied? The recommended dosage is 1 ml. applied twice per day. The liquid should be applied directly to the scalp to nourish the hair follicles. This should be done in the morning and again at night, preferrably between two and four hours before going to bed. Apply a few drops of Rogaine / Regaine to the scalp, then massage in with the fingers. Then apply a few more drops to another area of the scalp and massage with the objective of applying even coverage to the thinning area. Additional guidelines:
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