Regaine®

Regaine is the original product containing the active ingredient minoxidil for the topical treatment of hereditary hair loss. It is manufactured by Johnson & Johnson.

Available products:

• Regaine Männer solution – 5% minoxidil
• Regaine Männer foam – 5% minoxidil
• Regaine Frauen – 2% minoxidil

Regaine is available at pharmacies without a prescription and is applied to the scalp twice daily. Its effect is based on improved blood circulation and stimulation of the hair follicles.

In some countries, Regaine is also called Rogaine.

Regaine contains the active ingredient minoxidil, whose effect is based on several mechanisms:

Improved blood circulation: Minoxidil widens the small blood vessels in the scalp. As a result, the hair follicles are better supplied with nutrients and oxygen.

Prolonged growth phase: Hair goes through three phases: growth (anagen), transition (catagen), and rest (telogen). Minoxidil prolongs the growth phase and shortens the resting phase.

Stimulation of the follicles: Minoxidil activates ion channels in the cells of the hair root, thereby promoting hair growth.

Results:

• Reduced hair loss in about 80% of users
• Visibly thicker hair in about 30-40%
• Best effect at the crown and the back of the head
• Less effective at the receding temples

Regaine Männer (5%):

• Hereditary hair loss in men
• Typical pattern: crown, back of the head

Regaine Frauen (2%):

• Hereditary hair thinning in women
• Diffuse thinning on the top of the head

Particularly suitable:

• As a first treatment option
• In combination with finasteride (in men)
• For people who do not want to take tablets

Less suitable:

• In cases of completely bald areas
• In cases of non-hereditary hair loss
• In cases of scalp diseases

Regaine Männer solution (5%):

• 1 ml twice daily to the affected areas

Regaine Männer foam (5%):

• Half a capful twice daily

Regaine Frauen (2%):

• 1 ml twice daily

Maximum daily dose:

• 2 ml of solution or 1 capful of foam per day
• Using more provides no additional benefit but increases the risk of side effects

Duration of use:

• At least 4 months before assessing the result
• If successful: continuous use

Solution: 1. The affected areas of the scalp must be dry 2. Fill the applicator up to the 1 ml mark 3. Apply to the center of the area 4. Spread gently with your fingertips 5. Wash your hands thoroughly 6. Allow to air-dry (20-30 min)

Foam: 1. Turn the can upside down, remove the cap 2. Dispense half a capful of foam into your hand (not directly onto your head) 3. Apply to the scalp immediately (melts quickly) 4. Spread with your fingertips 5. Wash your hands

Important notes:

• Do not blow-dry – this can impair the effect
• Let it dry before going to bed
• Do not apply to a wet scalp (e.g., after swimming)

Do not use in case of:

• Allergy to minoxidil or other ingredients
• Scalp injuries or scalp inflammation
• Other scalp diseases
• Age under 18

Use with caution in case of:

• Heart disease
• Blood pressure problems
• Simultaneous use of other scalp products

Pregnancy/breastfeeding: Do not use.

Common:

• Scalp irritation (itching, redness)
• Flaking
• Initially increased hair loss (shedding)

Uncommon:

• Headache
• Facial hair growth (especially in women)
• Dry skin

Rare:

• Dizziness
• Racing heart
• Weight gain

Shedding phase: Hair loss may temporarily increase, usually 2 to 6 weeks after the start of treatment. The hairs are sent into a new growth phase. This effect subsides within a few weeks and can be a first sign of the treatment's effect. If the increased hair loss persists, stop using the product and see a doctor.

Interactions:

• Other scalp products: Leave a time interval between applications
• Blood pressure medications: An additive effect is theoretically possible
• Finasteride: Can be combined (synergistic effect)