The Hair Loss Cocktail: Rogaine and Propecia
Did you know that nearly 40% of people that are taking Propecia are also taking Rogaine? They claim an increase in the effectiveness of the medication, but recent studies have shown that not only does it not increase the effectiveness of either medications, but rather it exemplifies your risk for side effects and ailments.
Both Rogaine and Propecia work through intricate means to achieve a cessation of hair loss or stimulation of new hair growth, and mixing and matching the two is literally a recipe for disaster.
Rogaine
Rogaine used to only be available as a “solution”, which required a bit of insight when using it. It is also the most memorable name when it comes to hair loss treatments, and it has many years of successes and accomplishments underneath it that distinguish it from other treatments.
You can now order Rogaine as a foam-based treatment, and it comes in a package similar to hair mousse. It is applied in the same way that you might apply other foam products into your hair, and most men find it much easier to apply (and remember to apply) than the hair solution.
Rogaine contains a solution of Minoxidil (typically over 5%), and it designed only for certain hair treatments. Much of the regrowth that most men experience comes in the form of “peach fuzz” at first, and then later fills out into a more recognizable shade and length.
You do not need a prescription to take Rogaine.
Propecia
Where Rogaine is applied directly to the areas of hair loss, Propecia is a tablet that is taken once daily. It is important that you know the cause of your hair loss before taking Propecia, as taking Propecia to compensate for a serious medical condition will not result in hair growth of positive treatment.
Propecia’s active ingredient, Finasteride, works by blocking the creation of Dihydrotestosterone, a hormone that has been directly linked with several conditions in men, including hair loss. It is less invasive than Rogaine (both foam and solution based), but it also operates on a different level. Whereas Rogaine is absorbed into the scalp, Propecia works on a hormonal level. Because of this, it is important that you consult with your doctor before taking Propecia, as you will need a prescription.
Side Effects of Mixed Usage
Both Rogaine and Propecia product similar results at first- light, soft “peach fuzz” that slowly turns into full-length hair follicles that have a similar color and feel to them. Taking both products at once will make it nearly impossible to determine which product is working and which isn’t.
As well, both Rogaine and Propecia work based on their formula, so taking more does not always mean that you will see better results. By mixing the two treatments you are also exposing yourself to side effects associated with each, and there’s quite the list when you combine the two.
Unless it is specifically recommended by your doctor, taking Rogaine and Propecia is not recommended or encouraged.