Απ: Rogaine / Regaine FAQ
Retinoic Acid / Tretinoin
Retinoic acid is most widely used in the treatment of acne and other skin disorders. However studies have shown that retinoic acid alone or in combination with minoxidil can result in hair growth in individuals with androgenetic alopecia and alopecia areata. Many dermatologists recommend using retinoic acid in combination with minoxidil to increase the effects of both these products. Retinoic acid's action is two-fold: it increases the absorption of minoxidil and increases cell turnover, allowing the hair to grow faster.
Possible side effects of retinoic acid include irritation, blistering, altered pigmentation and increased sensitivity to light. Our pharmacists recommend using a plain minoxidil solution in the morning and a minoxidil/retinoic acid combination product in the evening. This regimen helps avoid irritation and lessens the chance of photosensitivity.
Zinc
Zinc has been shown to inhibit the activity of 5-alpha reductase and the subsequent production of (DHT) dihydrotestosterone. This mineral therefore may be of great benefit in the treatment of pattern baldness. Another study has shown that vitamin B6, Zinc and azelaic acid combined together, even at very low concentrations can produce 90% inhibition of 5 alpha reductase activity. We formulate a zinc, azelaic acid and vitamin B6 cream, available by prescription.
Azelaic Acid
Azelaic acid, like retinoic acid, is more commonly used in the treatment of acne and other skin conditions. Studies carried out in France in the late 1980's assessed the effects of zinc sulfate and azelaic acid on the human skin. The result of these studies demonstrated that at high concentrations zinc could completely inhibit the activity of 5 alpha reductase. Azelaic acid was also shown to be a potent inhibitor of 5 alpha reductase. Inhibition was detectable at concentrations as low as 0.2mmol/l and was complete at 3mmol/l. Chemically, zinc and minoxidil can not be added to the same solution without forming a precipitate, so azelaic acid is the DHT inhibiting agent of choice in solution with minoxidil. We offer several solutions that combine minoxidil and azelaic acid.
Saw Palmetto Extract
Studies have shown that saw palmetto is an effective anti-androgen when taken orally. Working similar to finasteride, it lowers levels of DHT in the body by blocking 5 alpha-reductase. Secondly, Saw Palmetto blocks receptor sites on cell membranes required for cells to absorb DHT. Studies have been performed on the use of Saw Palmetto in the treatment of prostate conditions that are dependent upon DHT. These studies have shown conclusively that saw palmetto is effective in the treatment of certain prostate conditions. No studies have been done to gauge the effects of Saw Palmetto's DHT inhibition in androgenetic alopecia.
Cimetidine
Cimetidine is sold under the brand name Tagamet. It is commonly used to reduce secretion of acid in the stomach and to treat stomach and duodenal ulcers, inflammation of the esophagus and other digestive disorders. However cimetidine also has an anti-androgen effect. Cimetidine blocks the binding of dihydrotestosterone to its receptor. Cimetidine has been used to treat excess facial hair in women and studies in women with androgenetic alopecia have yielded promising results. Recently, we have formulated topical cimetidine preparations to be used in combination with minoxidil.
Spironolactone
Spironolactone is an FDA approved diuretic (water pill) used to treat high blood pressure. However, it also acts as an anti-androgen by preventing dihydrotestosterone from binding to its androgenetic receptor similar to action of cimetidine. Like cimetidine, oral spironolactone use by men is discouraged due to possible feminizing effects. We formulate topical spironolactone in the hopes of avoiding the potential side effects. Like zinc, spironolactone is chemically unstable when combined with minoxidil and produces a distinct 'rotten egg' odor. For this reason, spironolactone solution is applied alone, apart from minoxidil.
Nizoral / Ketoconazole
Ketoconazole is currently used as an antifungal agent in the treatment of fungal infections and dandruff. Oral ketoconazole is known to have anti-androgenic effects by reducing the production of testosterone and other androgens. Ketoconazole has also been shown to decrease DHT levels when applied topically. Ketoconazole shampoo is available both with and without a prescription. Prescription Nizoral shampoo contains 2% ketoconazole and is often prescribed for the treatment of fungal infections of the scalp and sebbhoreic dermatitis. Non-prescription Nizoral A-D shampoo contains 1% ketoconazole.
Grape Seed Extract (Proanthocyanidins)
Extracts from grape seeds have been studied for potential beneficial effects on hair growth. Grape seed extract contains a chemical called proanthocyanidins, a powerful antioxidant. Although further studies need to be completed, proanthocyanidins from grape seeds appear to have benefit in androgenetic alopecia. We offer 100% pure grape seed extract as an additive to any of our minoxidil formulations.
Tricomin
Studies have demonstrated the positive effects of Triamino Copper Nutritional Complex on hair follicles. During the anagen phase, the base of the hair follicle (dermal papilla) is richly endowed with substances such as collagen and various proteins. These substances are virtually absent during the resting phase. Copper has been shown to stimulate the cells proteins. These substances are virtually absent during the resting phase. Copper has been responsible for production of these substances. Tricomin products target delivery of copper to the base of the follicle. In addition to the science of copper, other components of the Tricomin products (such as panthenol) add desirable structural qualities to the hair, building body and adding shine. While Tricomin's cosmetic benefits will be realized in the short-term, the added benefits of the Triamino Copper Nutritional Complex may only be seen after continued use for several months, such as with minoxidil. Please visit our Tricomin Shop for more information concerning these products.