Bernstein Medical - Center for Hair Restoration » Rogaine Foam

Which is Preferred Hair Loss Medication: Rogaine Foam or Rogaine Liquid Formula?

Robert M. Bernstein M.D. — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 08:19:55 +0000

Q: Do you think there is a difference in the efficacy between the 5% Rogaine foam or liquid formula?

A: In theory, the foam should be as effective as the original solution (liquid). However, an important part of the efficacy is getting the medication directly onto the scalp – rather than just on the hair.

For patients who are applying the medication to areas with a significant amount of hair, using the solution with a dropper applicator enables the medication to best reach the scalp. Because of this, I prefer that patients use the solution with a dropper applicator if they are using the medications in areas with a significant amount of hair.

If patients find the solution irritating to the scalp (or too messy) and the foam less so, then using the foam is better than nothing.

After Hair Transplant, Use Propecia Hair Loss Medication Without Rogaine, or Use Both?

Robert M. Bernstein M.D. — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 07:04:00 +0000

Q: I recently had a hair transplant about a month ago. Currently I’m on Propecia and I am a stickler to taking it at the same time every day. I don’t, however, use Rogaine namely because I fear the irritation it can possibly cause will halt graft growth and because I’ve heard that the grafts and post surgical shock loss hair will return without its use. Is it ok to use only Propecia post-surgically? Or would adding Rogaine be of any significant benefit?

A: I would definitely stay on Propecia and, if you like, you can add Rogaine – it may have a little additional benefit. The new 5% foam formulation is less irritating and can be started a week after the hair transplant.

The only problem with Rogaine is compliance. If you think that you will use it long-term, it is worth using. If, however, you think that you will get tired of it and stop, then it is not worth starting.

Any shedding with either medication is temporary and usually indicates that the drug is working.

Allergic Reaction to Rogaine Liquid Hair Loss Medication but Not Rogaine Foam?

Robert M. Bernstein M.D. — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 06:34:00 +0000

Q: Our dermatologist originally suggested our son use the 5% Rogaine and he developed an allergic reaction to it. Allergy tests confirmed it was the proplylene glycol causing the reaction. I understand that Rogaine foam has 5% minoxidil in it but no propylene glycol. Is that correct?

A: In addition to minoxidil 5%, Rogaine Foam contains: butane, butylated hydroxytoluene, cetyl alcohol, citric acid, fragrance, glycerin, isobutane, lactic acid, polysorbate 60, propane, purified water, SD alcohol 40-B, stearyl alcohol – but no propylene glycol.

How Long After Hair Transplant Should I Wait Before Continuing Treatment with Rogaine Hair Loss Medication?

Robert M. Bernstein M.D. — Wed, 25 Apr 2007 06:51:57 +0000

Q: I stopped using Rogaine for my hair transplant, when can I start using it again? And would it be any different with the new Rogaine foam.

A: I would wait at least 7 days to use Rogaine (minoxidil) in either liquid or foam.

The foam has less alcohol and can be irritating when applied to open wounds, but should be fine one week post-op.