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Rogaine: Answers
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What is the background to Rogaine?
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.
Because of an excellent safety record, in 1996 Rogaine 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 for?
In its 2% form Rogaine 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?
Minoxidil, Alcohol, 60% v/v, Propylene Glycol, and Purified Water.
Does Rogaine 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 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 should not be used if a person has any of these systemic effects:
- chest pain
- rapid heartbeat
- faintness
- dizziness
- sudden unexplained weight gain
- swelling of the extremities
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. This is normal, due to the cycles of hair growth. New hair starts to grow for some after about four months if Rogaine has been used as instructed.
In other cases men see new growth after about eight months and women after about twelve months.
Note: Rogaine 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 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 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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DO NOT use a hair dryer after applying Rogaine.
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Keep the scalp dry for at least four hours after applying Rogaine.
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If the scalp gets wet, reapply Rogaine once the scalp is dry.
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Wash your hands after use.
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Keep Rogaine away from the face and eyes.
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As Rogaine needs to be absorbed into the scalp, wait four hours before shampooing or swimming.
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Wait about half an hour before using styling aids after applying Rogaine.
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Rogaine can be used on permed or color treated hair. However, don't use it on the same day you use chemicals on your hair. Resume using Rogaine the day after.
