The Effects of Rogaine on Women

Rogaine is a hair loss treatment for men and women that works by revitalizing hair follicles and stimulating growth. In 1992, a version for women was released. The active ingredient in Rogaine is minoxidil. As it reinvigorates shrunken hair follicles, the follicles increase in size. Tests have resulted in thicker hair growing from these newly stimulated follicles for some women. Women should not use Extra Strength Rogaine because it has only been approved for use by men.

Scalp Irritation & Heart Issues

• One possible side effect of Rogaine is scalp irritation, and women appear to be more apt to suffer this than men. For some, it simply might be a flaky scalp resembling dandruff. But for women who are hypersensitive, the results can be a burning scalp, inflammation at the hair root or a red rash on the scalp. Rogaine should not be used in conjunction with other topical treatments as this can lead to over-absorption of the product.

  Though decreased blood pressure and light-headedness are rare side effects from Rogaine, women appear to be more susceptible to these.

Pregnancy Complications

• Pregnant women should avoid using Rogaine.

  As with many medicines, avoid using Rogaine if you are pregnant or plan to conceive. Specific tests on pregnant women have not been done, and the Food and Drug Administration has listed it as Pregnancy Category C, which means possible side effects to a fetus are unknown. Tests have been done on oral versions of minoxidil, and they show that it can penetrate breast milk, so nursing mothers also should avoid using Rogaine.

Increased Facial Hair

• Unwanted facial hair is a possible side effect of Rogaine use.

  For some women, growth of facial hair can be a possible side effect of Rogaine. Though this hair growth will typically disappear once use of the product is discontinued, in some cases the hair must be removed. Care should be taken to keep the product from dripping onto temples, forehead or the top of the ears when applying it. This side effect is much more prevalent when women use the 5 percent solution as opposed to the recommended 2 percent solution.

Side Effects End

• Most of the possible side effects on women who use Rogaine will reverse if use of the product is stopped, and new hair growth that results from using the product will also reverse if use is discontinued.