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.