Once a brand transcends a certain level of awareness, funny things start to happen to our perceptions as consumers – we stop asking questions. Having been around for two decades and change, Rogaine is a fitting example of this phenomenon. If we want to improve on 1980s hair-restoration technology or any other tech, though, we have to ask questions about the current state of things. So, does Rogaine really work?
How It Works
The active ingredient in Rogaine is a drug called minoxidil. Minoxidil is a vasodilator, meaning it widens blood vessels. While testing it for heart problems, drug manufacturers realized that it caused hair growth in some subjects. After further investigation, they found that it enlarged hair follicles and prolonged the growth phase under certain circumstances. In the late 80s, the formula was adapted for hair growth and approved by the FDA.
According to Rogaine, their proprietary solution “restores inactive hair follicles” and “increases protein production.” A lengthy list of asterisks, however, adds a less than flattering subtext to these confident claims.
Drawbacks
Rogaine has indeed been clinically proven to stimulate hair growth, but in a much narrower set of circumstances than their marketing materials imply. If you want to benefit from Rogaine, for example, you have to fit into the following criteria:
- Vertex baldness – Rogaine does not address receding hairlines. It only improves vertex baldness, which occurs at the back of the head.
- Younger than 40 – While older populations have reported results, they’re much less significant.
- Cleared by a heart doctor – Because it’s a strong vasodilator, minoxidil can be problematic for certain populations.
Even if you haven’t been selected out by the above exclusions, you can’t avoid Rogaine’s greatest drawback: dependence. We’re not talking addiction, of course, but functional dependence. Immediately after you stop regular doses, you begin balding again. If you want to have consistent hair regrowth, you have to use Rogaine forever. It is for this reason that we believe the answer is no – Rogaine doesn’t work. Thankfully, hair restoration has come a long way since the 80s and 90s.
A Real Solution
We now have robotic hair restoration technology, enhanced by AI technology, called the ARTAS Robotic System. If you want to restore your hair permanently and not have to be fully dependent on a daily maintenance routine, contact Dr. Wolfeld’s office who utilizes the new ARTAS iX for your permanent hair loss solutions.
References
How Rogaine Works: ROGAINE®. (n.d.). Retrieved July 2, 2019, from https://www.rogaine.com/blogs/blog/how-rogaine-works
Does Rogaine Work? On Thin Hair, Beards, Women, or Receding Hairline. (n.d.). Retrieved July 2, 2019, from https://www.healthline.com/health/does-rogaine-work#best-results