Minoxidil & Rogaine
Minoxidil is a medication that dilates blood vessels, originally developed in the late 1950’s by Upjohn
Company. Minoxidil was first approved by the FDA in 1979 for treatment of high blood pressure, in the form of an oral tablet. Studies conducted for Minoxidil as an anti-hypertensive medication showed unexpected hair growth and led to its development as a treatment for hair loss. The over-the-counter product, Rogaine for men, contains 5% Minoxidil. Rogaine for women contains 2% Minoxidil.
In contrast to Finasteride and Dutasteride, Minoxidil does not affect DHT. Minoxidil appears to improve hair loss by its effect on hair growth; increasing the Anagen or growth phase of the hair growth cycle. This allows the miniaturized follicle to grow longer and gain greater diameter. The longer, thicker hairs have more volume and provide better coverage.
