Rogaine would be one of the first names that pop up when you shop for a medication to stop hair loss. For more than two decades, this medication has helped both men and women fight the depressing reality of losing one’s hair. In this article, you will get all the information you need about Rogaine.

What is Rogaine?

Rogaine (or Regaine in some countries) is a topical treatment for hair regrowth in men and women. It contains Minoxidil as its active ingredient. Minoxidil is a non-hormonal topical hair regrowth treatment which can initiate the growth cycle of hairs and revitalizing shrunken hair follicles.

How does Rogaine Work?

Minoxidil, the active ingredient contained in Rogaine, belongs to a class of drugs known as vasodilators. There is currently no theory that states exactly how minoxidil causes hair growth, but it is known that Minoxidil, a potassium channel opener causes the opening of cell membranes.

By opening the cells membranes of the hair follicles it causes a widening in the blood vessels, thus, allowing hair follicle to gain access to more oxygen, blood, and nutrients. Researchers also believe that this increases the size of inactive hair follicles, allowing them to resume production of thicker, longer strands of hair.

Do You Need a Prescription to Get Rogaine?

In most countries, Rogaine can be purchased without a prescription. This means you can quickly get Rogaine over the counter. However, in certain parts of Canada, Rogaine can be obtained only with a prescription. This also applies to some other countries, so check with a registered pharmacy in your country.

Men’s and Women’s Rogaine; What is the Difference?

Yes, this topical solution comes in two different variants, one for men and another for women. So, what precisely is the difference between the Men’s and Women’s Rogaine? Or is it just a marketing strategy.

First is the Men’s Rogaine which also comes in two different formulas. The first formula contains a 5 percent Minoxidil (its active ingredient) while the second contains a 2 percent minoxidil solution. The second formula is administered to the scalp with a dropper while the first is the more popular Rogaine foam.

The Women’s Rogaine also comes in two different formulas, no surprise there. One formula contains 5 percent Minoxidil (the foam), while the second contains 2.5 percent Minoxidil. So is the Men’s formula different from the Women’s formula?

Yes, there is a difference in both formulas. The Men’s Rogaine formulas should be twice a day for maximum effects while the Women’s Rogaine only needs to be applied once a day to be effective.

Does Rogaine Work?

Rogaine is one of the few medications for hair loss that is sure to work – that is if used correctly. Among women who used the Women’s Rogaine it has been clinically proven (clinical study by Johnson & Johnson’s Clinical Studies) within 6 months, 80 percent of women who applied it once each day regrew their hair.

For men, about 60 percent of men who used Rogaine regrew their hair, the numbers are lower because hair loss in men is more severe than in women. It is important to know that the amount of hair regrowth is different for each person, and new hair growth also comes in up to 48 percent thicker than before.

How Do You Use Rogaine?

There are two formulas for Rogaine; the solution and the foam.

• To use Rogaine solution, first, clean and dry the scalp area (there is no need to shampoo, or apply gel to your hair first).
• Expose your scalp as much as possible. You can do this by parting your hair.
• To use the solution, fill the applicator with 1 milliliter of medication (to the 1-milliliter line), or use 20 drops.
• Generously apply the solution on the affected area of the scalp. Allow the solution to dry on its own.

To use the foam

• First, rinse your hands in cold water and dry thoroughly. A dry hand will prevent the foam from dissolving on your hand.
• Apply about 1/2 capful of foam to the scalp and rub in gently. Allow the foam to dry completely before styling or going to bed.
• Wash your hands with soap and water.

How Long Does It Take for Rogaine to Work?

The length of time it takes Rogaine to work will differ from individual to individual (including in men and women). Some women who use Rogaine daily may begin to see signs of hair regrowth in as little as three months.

For some other, it may take at least five to six months to get visible results. This also applies to men using the men’s formula as instructed. However, if after six months of correctly using Rogaine and you have not seen any results, you should probably stop using the formula and contact your doctor.

What Happens if You Stop Using Rogaine?

Hair loss is a condition that cannot be cured with the use of medication, this means that if you stop using this treatment, your hair loss will resume. It would not happen instantly (nobody loses hair overnight), it may take three to six months to lose the hair you managed to regrow.

To avoid this, it is essential that you continue to use Rogaine as instructed in other to maintain hair regrowth.

Are There Does Side Effects When You Use Rogaine?

Like every other drug available, there are possible side effects to using Rogaine. The widespread side effects are irritation of the scalp, dryness, itchiness, redness and flaky skin. These side effects are usually temporary, but if it lingers see your doctor.

If you notice that the solution changes your hair colour or texture, burns your scalp, causes dizziness, changes your blood pressure, causes acne where you applied it, causes headaches, inflammation, rash, dizziness, hair loss, weight gain or the growth of facial hair. Stop using it and contact your doctor.

Can Everybody use Rogaine?

Rogaine should not be used by everyone. For example, this solution should not be used by individuals under the age of 18, and those who have no family history of hair loss. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also avoid using Rogaine.

If you are on a medication, it is vital that you check with a doctor to know if there will be any drug interaction. Rogaine costs about $30 (USD).