Nonsurgical Follicle Treatment with Minoxidil (Rogaine®)
Minoxidil increases the amount of time that hairs stay in the anagen (growth) phase versus the telogen (resting) phase. When topical minoxidil is first applied, shedding of telogen phase hairs may be increased for a short time. This loss of telogen follicles is temporary, and the lost telogen will be replaced by new telogen over the following weeks and months.
Two percent topical minoxidil has been shown to stimulate follicle growth in about 30 percent of male patients, with a slightly higher response in female patients. The response rate with 5 percent topical solution is higher in both men and women. Another large study by the manufacturer of the 2 percent solution provided regrowth statistics demonstrating that men ages 18 to 49 with moderate baldness have a 26 percent chance of experiencing moderate to dense growth in four months and a 33 percent chance of minimal regrowth.
After eight months of use, women ages 18 to 45 with mild to moderate loss can expect moderate growth in 19 percent of cases and minimal regrowth in 40 percent of cases. In those whom minoxidil (Rogaine®) is not effective in growing new follicles, it may still have the great benefit of maintaining follicles by slowing down or stopping the progression of going bald. Response time from application of minoxidil to the first regrowth will range from one month to one year.
Follices grow slowly, and the first to appear will be soft and light in color. Follicles may continue to fall out for the first two weeks of use. Topical minoxidil is generally more effective in improving growth in central areas of the cranium than in frontal areas. Those using the product for about one year who notice no growth and no significant reduction in depletion should stop using the product.
Topical minoxidil treatment for androgenetic alopecia is a lifetime commitment if the treatment proves effective. If the daily application is halted, all follicles stabilized or grown in response to the therapy will be rapidly lost over three to six months.
Combined medical restoration treatment of male baldness with minoxidil (Rogaine®) and finasteride (Propecia®) is thought by some researchers to be more effective than either alone. Neither product "guarantees" to stop the loss of follicles or stimulate the growth of new follicles because it may be due to many causes that may or may not be treatable by these medications.
Side effects of these options are few and generally minor. They include skin irritation, itching, and follicle growth. Cranium irritation and/or itching with the 5 percent solution may be relieved by using the 2 percent solution.
Although the 5 percent solution is indicated for men only, some physicians recommend this 5 percent solution for use by women. There is a higher chance of follicle growth in women using the 5 percent solution. Using more than the recommended dosage will not speed growth and may cause hypotension (lower blood pressure).
