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Effects of Rogaine Foam

Rogaine is the brand name for minoxidil, an FDA approved topical over-the-counter medication that encourages hair growth.The user applies the medication to the scalp in concentrations of 5 percent (for men) and 2 percent (for women). Rogaine foam is an improved formula that prevents the greasy appearance that the original lotion creates.

  1. Desirable Effects

    • Rogaine foam promotes two desirable outcomes: it slows balding and helps the user regrow more hair. It does not work for everyone, however.
      The medical community still does not understand the exact reason Rogaine works, according to Bernstein Medical Center for Hair Restoration in New York City. They believe that minoxidil increases the length of the growth cycle of hair follicles and thus improves the diameter and length of the tiny fine hairs, called miniaturized hair, that often still exist in otherwise bald spots.
      Possible changes in hair color or texture are a side effect that may be desirable or undesirable. New hair may be light, thin and fuzzy.

    Location

    • If it produces a good effect for you, it will most likely be on the crown of the head. The research was originally conducted on the crown of the head, so some people think that it will not work at the front of the head to treat a receding forehead, but according to Bernstein Medical Center for Hair Restoration, as long as miniaturized hairs are present, Rogaine may produce effects. If the area is completely bald, you will not see any effects.

    Time Frame

    • You may not see results for up to six months, though most people see results after four months of use, and some people see results sooner. Check with your physician if you do not see hair regrowth after four months. If you stop using Rogaine foam regularly, you may lose the new growth, and your hair loss may then pick up where it left off.

    Undesirable Effects

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, severe allergic reactions may be the result of your body absorbing too much of the drug. These reactions include flushing, headache or lightheadedness; chest pain, blurred vision or other changes to vision; dizziness or fainting; fast or irregular heartbeat; numbness or tingling of hands, feet or face; swelling of the face, hands, feet or lower legs; or rapid weight gain.

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