HairFarmer
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This is interesting to read due to the types of solutions they had back then...things haven't changed all that much....
Mr X...
I am 40 years old, and I've had a gradually receding hairline since my mid-30's. For most of that time it was not serious, just a gradual loss at the temples and mild regression at the front of the hairline. I didn't have a baldspot at the crown. Over the last year or so, however, the loss began to spread from the temples to behind the hair in front, sort of a horseshoe shape, and the hair in front began to thin noticeably. I had used Rogaine for about 18 months, starting 4½ years ago, but it didn't seem to help. However, when I stopped using it, the loss seemed to accelerate, so it was probably slowing the process.
Last year, my hair stylist recommended that I start using a different shampoo, since my hair was beginning to thin on top, as well, something I hadn't noticed. Wanting to arrest and, hopefully, reverse this process, and knowing that Rogaine is least effective on frontal hair loss, which was what I could see every day, I researched hair loss treatments on the net. I knew that there were several products in clinical trials, which show tremendous promise for growing hair, and that should be available in a couple of years. Until then, I wanted to keep what I had, and if I grew any back in the process, that was a bonus. Many, many thanks to John Ertel for a fantastic site. Through his pages, I learned a lot about what was out there, what might work, and what was bogus. I considered Dr. Proctor's Proxiphen prescription, but I wasn't comfortable with just dumping everything under the sun onto my scalp, and I also wanted to avoid the necessity of a prescription, if possible (Ultimitely, I ended up getting one). So, I decided to devise my own program, using OTC products, adding elements to it gradually, allowing time for my body to adjust to each new component, and, hopefully, avoiding the fall-out that many have noted occurring 2 - 4 months after starting a treatment program.
My approach was two-fold: First, to use topical agents that had a high probability of slowing or reversing my hair loss, and which worked via different mechanisms, thus achieving maximum effect. These mechanisms of action include: anti-andgrogens to reduce the level of DHT in the scalp, vasodilators to improve blood circulation in the scalp, free-radical scavengers, and metabolic stimulators. Second, to take nutritional supplements that would aid the process systemically. Below is a list of the components I'm using and why, as well as a synopsis of my program and its effect to date.
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Components
Topical
Nioxin: A shampoo/conditioner/nourisher program. Nioxin is essentially a vasodilator, although the NX3 booster, which I also used, contains anti-oxidants and free-radical scavengers. The complete program has 4 components, and I used to use all of them. A few months ago my hair stylist refused to sell me any more of the treatments, because the Nioxin sales rep said that it shouldn't be used in combination with minoxidil, since it boosts the absorption of minoxidil. Too bad, because that's one of the reasons I was using it. Ah well. Dr. Lee's formulation, which is described below, also contains menthol as a vasodilator, so I figure it pretty much replaces the Nioxin treatments. I still use the shampoo and conditioner, because they are the best I've ever used. Available only through hair salons, and a couple of websites that I've seen. You can't just buy it at your local WalMart. This is what my stylist first recommended. Before this, I used Pert Plus, which she said was terrible for my hair. After using this stuff, I believe her. Among other things, I no longer clog my shower drain with soap scum and gooey conditioners. Or a lot of hair. Nioxin is an excellent shampoo, conditioner and scalp treatment, and leaves my hair looking very good. It is a powerful vasodilator; if you get some on your face, you'll look like you have one of those raspberry birthmarks for a while. I use it before the Rogaine, as I believe it helps with the absorption of the minoxidil. Cost: about $25 a month for the basic 3 pack and another $15 for the booster. It's half that, if you can find a way to get it from a cosmetic supply house. Also cheaper if you buy larger quantities. There are also other vasodilating shampoos out there (Stef, for example, but it's more expensive). Ask your hair stylist.
Note about Nioxin: I've received a fair amount of flak on alt.baldspot for recommending the Nioxin product line. A lot of people think it is crap, and say so most vehemently. All I know is that I had positive results from using it. I started using it without ever seeing anything about it on the web, based solely on the recommendation of my hair stylist. After checking out a couple of sites that promote it, I can see why people would rip the product, as the claims made are pretty hyperbolic. Never-the-less, I believe that vasodilation is good for your hair, and I also believe that Nioxin helps with the absorption of minoxidil, especially at the front of the scalp, where the skin is thicker and minoxidil is known to be less effective. If I had not seen results from 5% minoxidil and proscar, then I would have given them up and gone back to Nioxin, since it definitely helped me.
Rogaine (Minoxidil) 2%: The standard generic stuff. Clinically proven to grow hair in at least some people. I used to buy Rogaine over the net from SmallWorld. Dave's a real nice guy, and it only costs 99 bucks for 12 bottles. I used about 1 ¼ to 1 ½ mls per application, 2 times a day, not because I think more is better, but because I have a lot of hair and much of the Rogaine ended up on the hair, not on the scalp. Applied after the Nioxin to a wet scalp. Cost: about $9/month.
Minoxidil 5%: Industrial strength. Also, clinically proven to grow hair in at least some people, although the numbers are a little better than for the 2% strength. I buy it as part of Dr. Lee's formulation over the net from Community Pharmacy. You need a prescription for this formulation, although it looks like the FDA will soon approve straight 5% Regaine, which is 5% Minoxidil, for OTC (over-the-counter, as in: non-prescription) sale. You can also order Regaine from some overseas pharmacies. Before I got my scrip, I obtained Regaine this way from Airport Oaks Pharmacy in New Zealand. I use 1 ml per application, 2 times a day. Cost: for Dr. Lee's formulation, which includes Retin-A in the evening application, is about $35/mo (four 65 ml bottles for about $130 plus shipping).
Folligen: A copper peptide complex, Folligen was developed from a wound care product that grew hair as a side effect. Essentially a metabolic stimulator, although it also contains Saw Palmetto, an anti-androgen. I used it at night, after the Rogaine. While I applied the Nioxin and Rogaine all over the top of my head, I only applied the Folligen to the front area of my scalp. (I finally stopped using it, because it was turning my gray hair VERY green.) Let it dry before you go to bed, or you'll stain your pillows green. I got mine from SmallWorld. Cost: about $18/month.
Saw Palmetto Extract: a known anti-androgen, Saw Palmetto Extract is already in the Folligen, so I didn't apply any more topically, although I did take it orally. Studies have shown that it also aids in controlling Benign Prostate Hypoplasia. Stopped using it, when I started using Proscar.
Retin-A: A metabolic stimulator, believed to accelerate cellular reproduction. As I said above, it's in Dr. Lee's formulation for evening application at 0.025%.
Systemic (All vitamins and saw palmetto extract are Vita-Smart brand unless noted):
Proscar (finasteride): anti-androgen. Originally developed to treat BPH, the active ingredient is currently awaiting FDA approval as a hair regrowth treatment. That treatment will be 1 mg per day, and Proscar tabs are 5 mg, so I use a pill cutter to divide the tab into quarters, thus, taking 1.25 mg per day. I take it at night, along with my vitamin supplements. I also buy this from from Community Pharmacy, and yes, you need a prescription for Proscar. Cost: about $20/mo. (approx. $60 for 30 tabs, which will last 3 months.)
Vitamin C: anti-oxidant. K-Mart. Cost: about $2.50/month.
Vitamin E: anti-oxidant. K-Mart. Cost: about $2.50/month.
BioFolicH: a vitamin supplement I found on the net that supposedly aids in growing hair. Relatively expensive and doesn't contain a whole hell of a lot of active ingredients. I used up my trial supply and switched over to a basic B-complex supplement. Cost: about $25/month.
Multi-Vitamin/Mineral: 'Men's Multi' Just a way to make sure I'm getting enough B vitamins. K-Mart. Cost: about $2.50/month.
Saw Palmetto Extract: See above. K-Mart. Cost: about $10/month.
Selenium: Added this, not for hair care, but because a recent study, reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association, indicates it may have some anti-cancer properties. With all the other stuff I'm taking, what's one more pill? K-Mart. Cost: about $2/month.
Note: Yes, I KNOW that any excess vitamins are just pissed away [except for the fat soluble ones like Vitamin E], and I have the yellow urine to prove it. However, there is evidence that the body CAN utilize some supplements, when they are available in higher quantities, Vitamin C for example, and it's an easy way to make sure I'm getting enough B vitamins and minerals. I work a lot of hours, don't always eat right, and smoke, so every little bit helps. Besides, they're cheap.
That's it for the components. Not really all that many, when you look at the list. It takes me about an extra 5 minutes in the morning and again at night to apply all the topical ingredients. The only change in my lifestyle from this program is that I now blow-dry my hair in the morning. That's because the Rogaine leaves it a little greasy and matted, if I just let it air dry. I also comb everything through my hair very well, to make sure it's distributed evenly. Combing is also a mini scalp massage. Other than that, no change.
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Cost
This is based on my curent program. You can add up the various components that I've used over the course of my treatment, if you want to design your own program, which I highly recommend, as everyone is different and will react differently to various treatments.
Topicals: about $35/month for Dr. Lee's formulation [not counting the Nioxin shampoo and conditioner, which are on par with other salon available shampoos and conditioners. More expensive than Pert, though.]
Supplements: about $30/month [Proscar + vitamins]
Total: $65/month
If you've been tracking this page, then you know that I used to spend about $60/mo. for all my non-prescription components. So, excluding the vitamins at $10/mo., which I'd be taking anway, I'm actually paying about $5/mo. LESS for the generally recognized state-of-the art treatment regimen of 5% minoxidil, 0.025% retin-a and 1.25 mg Proscar. Not bad.
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Application
AM - Shower with the Nioxin shampoo and Scalp Therapy (conditioner). Towel dry hair and apply Dr. Lee's morning treatment (5% minoxidil). Spread a little with fingers to ensure good coverage. Comb in. I used to blow dry my hair, but, since I cut back on the topical applications, I don't need to do that, anymore.
PM - Apply Dr. Lee's evening formulation (%5 minoxidil + 0.025% retin-a). Spread a little with fingers to ensure good coverage. Comb in. Wait a couple of minutes before going to bed.
Supplements Vitamins: Taken with orange juice just before breakfast in the morning, and again with orange juice, just before getting ready for bed at night. Proscar: Taken with vitamins at night.
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Program History
1) August
Treatment: Nioxin shampoo/conditioner/nourisher AM nourisher PM.
Effect: no change in hair growth, fall out reduced.
2) September
Treatment: Added Nioxin NX3 booster AM PM.
Effect: some vellus hairs around temples? Received compliment on hair - seems premature.
3) October
Treatment: Same.
Effect: vellus hairs seem longer, more of them, filling in 'wrap around' area at temples. Hair growing faster. Hair stylist sees some new growth on crown.
4) November
Treatment: Added Rogaine AM PM Folligen PM Vit C 1g, Vit E 400 IU, BioFolicH 1unit AM PM. Began applying Rogaine to crown of head as well.
Effect: vellus hairs approx. ¼". Hair stylist notes continued progress. Received a couple of compliments on my hair.
5) December:
Treatment: Added Saw Palmetto 250 mg PM. End month - Mega-multi vitamin AM BioFolicH only PM, Saw Palmetto 250 mg AM. Began blow drying hair, Rogaine somewhat greasy.
Effect: many vellus hairs approx. ½" starting to pigment, visible in mirror from distance as 'shadow'. Hair seems thicker all over top, a few new hairs at front of hairline. Some vellus hairs have grown more rapidly, appear to be maturing. Very fine, tiny vellus hairs appearing down to 'original' hairline at temples - it ain't dead yet. Hairstylist notes continuing progress 'hair is definitely thicker'. Saw friends over the holiday. Several compliments on hair. Had long discussion with one friend, who is very interested in my program.
6) January
Treatment: Boosted selenium to 100 mcg AM and PM.
Effect: Vellus hairs continue to mature, some can be combed back with other terminal hairs. Really filling in at temples. More short, new hairs along front of hairline. Growth seems to be spreading gradually down from 'adult' hairline at temples and filling in towards 'youthful' hairline.
7) February
Treatment: Cut back Folligen to use just around the temples where hair is thinnest. Was turning my gray hairs green.
Effect: Thought I experienced some fall out early in the month, but it was pretty mild. The vellus hairs that matured earlier are combed back with the rest of the terminal hairs. New vellus hairs are a fine down underneath them, slower to mature. Had friends visit for a weekend and received several comments along the lines of "What did you do to your hair?" Wrote down my program for one friend, who wants to try it.
Note: These notes were written several months after the fact. Even though I've kept a personal log of my treatment, I don't have as much detail to report as in previous months, because I just can't remember them as clearly. My apologies. The entry for September is more of a synopsis of progress to date.
8) March
Treatment: Stopped using Folligen.
Effect: Not much change. New vellus hairs seem 'reluctant' to grow out. Ordered some 5% minoxidil over the net to see, if I can boost the process a little. Never thought I'd go that route, but many emails from others have convinced me that it's worth a try. Stuff is expensive w/o a prescription, though.
9) April
Treatment: Added 5% minoxidil, applied at night in place of 2%.
Effect: Pretty much status quo. No loss, but no real gain. Green hair starting to grow out.
10) May
Treatment: Ran out of 5% minoxidil, back to 2%.
Effect: Maybe some new fuzz at temples? Green hair continuing to grow out. Visited family over Memorial Day and received a couple of compliments on my hair. Nice to hear.
11) June
Treatment:Got some more 5% minoxidil, for evening application, as well as Proscar, 1/4 tab, also at night. Stopped taking Saw Palmetto extract, since Proscar is a stronger anti-androgen. Ran out of Nioxin treatment and NX3 booster. Just using shampoo and conditioner. Stopped blow-drying hair, as it's not as wet w/o the Nioxin.
Effect: Decided to go whole hog and ordered Proscar from overseas. Arrived in one week with the 5% Regaine. Hair seems a little thicker in front. Green hair almost gone. Hopefully, no new loss will result from stopping Nioxin treatment.
12) July
Treatment:Got a prescription for Dr. Lee's formulation. On order. Should arrive in time to avoid running out, again.
Effect: Hair at temples is thick enough to support itself, when combed back, although scalp is still visible. No apparent fallout from boosting to 5% minoxidil and proscar. No real side effects from Proscar, either. No reduction in libido (sex drive), but some reduction in quantity of ejaculate. No breast tenderness. One year anniversary calls for a toast to my new hair. Program has been very successful. Green hair is finally gone. Must have actually stained hair still in the follicles to last this long.
13) August
Treatment:Using Dr. Lee's night time formulation, but still using Regaine in morning, until bottle exhausted.
Effect: One year anniversary calls for a toast to my new hair. Program has been very successful. New hairs continuing to appear and vellus hairs are getting longer.
14) September
Treatment:Using Dr. Lee's morning and night time formulations.
Effect: Definitely seeing new growth at temples a good 1/4 inch down from existing hairline. Vellus hair is colored and about 1/2 inch long. New hairs at front edge of hairline, too. Getting a straighter hairline out to the temples. Pretty amazing to watch. While I originally wanted to fill in the 'horseshoe' pattern of loss between the temples behind the hair in front, it looks like I'm actually regaining hairline at the temples, as well. Hair stylist said that hair in back has completely filled in to normal density, which was great news. Glad I don't have to worry about that anymore. She also confirmed new growth at the temples. My sister actually gave me a compliment over Labor Day weekend, which was a real accomplishment. The 'divot' I used to have just behind the hair in front has been gone for a few months. Looks like the 5% minoxidil and Proscar are kicking in. Was worth it to make the switch. No apparent ill effects from stopping the Nioxin treatments, or from the Proscar.
15) October
Treatment:No change (5% minoxidil AM, 5% minoxidil w/0.025% Retin-A and 1.25 mg finasteride PM + vitamins].
Effect: Vellus hairs at the temples continue to grow longer and melanize [become colored]. There are enough hairs at the temples that they have a little body, when i comb them back. Getting some buoyancy from the vellus hairs underneath. The pics I put up on my page were a great reality check. The difference between what my hair looked like before I began my program and what it looks like now were really obvious to me. It used to be that I hated they way my hair looked after I got it cut, because it showed how thin it was at the temples. While it is still thinner there than the rest of my hair, I no longer worry about haircuts, because it looks better each time.
16) November
Treatment:No change (5% minoxidil AM, 5% minoxidil w/0.025% Retin-A and 1.25 mg finasteride PM + vitamins].
Effect: Not much to report this month. Maturation of the vellus hairs at the temples continues. There are a couple of spots at the front hairline, just to the sides, that seem to be 'flaring out' slightly with new vellous hairs. I'll watch these areas closely, because, if they are filling in, then it looks like my hairline at the front is actually getting wider, and not just filling in at the temples. No new pics this month. I shot a few, but my QuickCam camera doesn't have the resolution to show such subtle changes. I'll try again next month. I only want to put pics on this page that show something of value.
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Comments
After 16 months, I feel that the program has been very successful and would classify the new hair growth as 'very good'. My hair is filling in down to my original 'adult' hairline [the one I had when I was about 30 and had a 'full' head of hair]. The hair at the crown has completely filed in. With the switch to 5% minoxidil and Proscar I'm seeing a new burst of vellus hair growth. While still relatively small, they are adding to the density I achieved severl months ago, before I started with the stronger stuff. You can still see my scalp at the temples, but there is a definite, lower hairline, and there are also enough terminal hairs to comb back. These appear to be supported by the fluffy, vellus hairs underneath, so the overall effect is fuller. There is WAY more hair, then when I started 16 months ago.
So, over a year later the process continues. What has most surprised me is the fine fuzz that has appeared all the way down to the hairline I had when I was a kid. I figured those follicles had long since moved on, but it shows that they are still capable of producing hair. While I don't really expect them to mature with my current program (those little guys haven't changed in appearance in several months), who knows what will happen, when Pileil, or one of the other new compounds now undergoing clinical trials, become available? I have experienced only minimal fallout, unlike what some have reported, so maybe staggering the addition of the treatment components worked. Or, maybe I have enough hair to not make the fallout noticeable. Staggering the addition of components might also have slowed the overall regrowth process somewhat, so I might have paid a small price there.
I started working out in the gym in January, after an absence of about 2 years, due to a torn rotator cuff. There's been some talk on the net about whether or not weight-lifting, because it boosts testosterone levels, can increase the rate of hair loss. Based on my own experience, I'd say there is either no effect, or the effect is minimal (maybe what I experienced in February). Also, even though I'm taking an anti-androgen like Proscar, I've had no problem in building muscle, and I haven't experienced any of the other potential anti-androgenic side effects, like tender breasts or impotency (Thank God).
The conversation I had with a friend of mine over the Christmas holiday was most interesting. He is a natural skeptic, and has commented on my hair loss in the past. He said my hair looked great and there was definitely more of it. When I saw him again in February [a reunion of my old band], he said it looked even better. I ended up giving him a breakdown of my program, because he, too, is slowly losing his hair, but didn't think there was anything he could do about it. Since I didn't tell him ahead of time that I was doing anything for my hair, his comments could be considered to be 'unsolicited' and a general endorsement of my program. I had another conversation in September with a friend, who is very bald on top (buzzes what he has to about 1/4 inch). He didn't believe any of the current treatments could regrow hair. I finally told him what I was doing and showed him the new hairs around my hairline. He was impressed to the point where he wants to try to regrow some hair. And this guy is a doctor. At this point I have received a number of positive comments from people, all unsolicited, and my hair stylist is really impressed with my hair regrowth. So I'm convinced that the results are real and not just wishful thinking. One other indicator that things are working: my hair is growing a lot faster. I've had to increase the frequency of my hair cuts from every 5 to 6 weeks to every 4 to 4 ½ weeks. Also, I'm not self-conscious about my hair anymore, which is a very nice feeling.
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Advice
If you start a hair care program, whatever it may be - BE PATIENT. It can takes months before results become noticeable. If you see a treatment that promises results in a couple of weeks, be very cautious.
Don't check every day for results, you'll just be disappointed. If you can, use a mirror in a different bathroom or bedroom to be your 'check' mirror, especially if the lighting is different. Only use it once a week.
Try to identify a landmark or two on your head, against which you can measure your progress. Something like a mole or a scar near your hairline is good. This way, you can eliminate some of the subjective bias you're bound to have as you try to see results. I have one 'lonely' terminal hair at the temple that was a good inch away from the rest of my hairline. Over the months I've watched my hairline slowly creep towards that hair. Soon, I suspect it won't be 'lonely' anymore.
Taking pictures is fine to gauge your progress, but that's easier said than done. It's HARD to take the same pic from month to month with identical angles and lighting conditions. Just try it with something easy, like a plant in a window, or your foot, where you can use he viewfinder. If you can't be consistent, don't waste your time or film.
Don't blab to everyone you know that you are on a hair re-growth program. You'll just get peppered with questions and possibly negative comments ["Hey, it's been a week and _I_ don't see any results."] Let people come to YOU and ask you what you're doing differently about your hair. Unsolicited comments are the best, and they will really make your day.
Be consistent in your program. Set up a pattern that becomes a part of your normal routine, so you don't have to 'remember' to do it, you just do it. If you miss a treatment, don't 'double up' the next time, you'll just waste material.
Everyone is different, especially as it applies to hair re-growth. What works for one person might not do anything for someone else. Don't be afraid to try other compounds that have similar modes of action.
Mr X...
I am 40 years old, and I've had a gradually receding hairline since my mid-30's. For most of that time it was not serious, just a gradual loss at the temples and mild regression at the front of the hairline. I didn't have a baldspot at the crown. Over the last year or so, however, the loss began to spread from the temples to behind the hair in front, sort of a horseshoe shape, and the hair in front began to thin noticeably. I had used Rogaine for about 18 months, starting 4½ years ago, but it didn't seem to help. However, when I stopped using it, the loss seemed to accelerate, so it was probably slowing the process.
Last year, my hair stylist recommended that I start using a different shampoo, since my hair was beginning to thin on top, as well, something I hadn't noticed. Wanting to arrest and, hopefully, reverse this process, and knowing that Rogaine is least effective on frontal hair loss, which was what I could see every day, I researched hair loss treatments on the net. I knew that there were several products in clinical trials, which show tremendous promise for growing hair, and that should be available in a couple of years. Until then, I wanted to keep what I had, and if I grew any back in the process, that was a bonus. Many, many thanks to John Ertel for a fantastic site. Through his pages, I learned a lot about what was out there, what might work, and what was bogus. I considered Dr. Proctor's Proxiphen prescription, but I wasn't comfortable with just dumping everything under the sun onto my scalp, and I also wanted to avoid the necessity of a prescription, if possible (Ultimitely, I ended up getting one). So, I decided to devise my own program, using OTC products, adding elements to it gradually, allowing time for my body to adjust to each new component, and, hopefully, avoiding the fall-out that many have noted occurring 2 - 4 months after starting a treatment program.
My approach was two-fold: First, to use topical agents that had a high probability of slowing or reversing my hair loss, and which worked via different mechanisms, thus achieving maximum effect. These mechanisms of action include: anti-andgrogens to reduce the level of DHT in the scalp, vasodilators to improve blood circulation in the scalp, free-radical scavengers, and metabolic stimulators. Second, to take nutritional supplements that would aid the process systemically. Below is a list of the components I'm using and why, as well as a synopsis of my program and its effect to date.
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Components
Topical
Nioxin: A shampoo/conditioner/nourisher program. Nioxin is essentially a vasodilator, although the NX3 booster, which I also used, contains anti-oxidants and free-radical scavengers. The complete program has 4 components, and I used to use all of them. A few months ago my hair stylist refused to sell me any more of the treatments, because the Nioxin sales rep said that it shouldn't be used in combination with minoxidil, since it boosts the absorption of minoxidil. Too bad, because that's one of the reasons I was using it. Ah well. Dr. Lee's formulation, which is described below, also contains menthol as a vasodilator, so I figure it pretty much replaces the Nioxin treatments. I still use the shampoo and conditioner, because they are the best I've ever used. Available only through hair salons, and a couple of websites that I've seen. You can't just buy it at your local WalMart. This is what my stylist first recommended. Before this, I used Pert Plus, which she said was terrible for my hair. After using this stuff, I believe her. Among other things, I no longer clog my shower drain with soap scum and gooey conditioners. Or a lot of hair. Nioxin is an excellent shampoo, conditioner and scalp treatment, and leaves my hair looking very good. It is a powerful vasodilator; if you get some on your face, you'll look like you have one of those raspberry birthmarks for a while. I use it before the Rogaine, as I believe it helps with the absorption of the minoxidil. Cost: about $25 a month for the basic 3 pack and another $15 for the booster. It's half that, if you can find a way to get it from a cosmetic supply house. Also cheaper if you buy larger quantities. There are also other vasodilating shampoos out there (Stef, for example, but it's more expensive). Ask your hair stylist.
Note about Nioxin: I've received a fair amount of flak on alt.baldspot for recommending the Nioxin product line. A lot of people think it is crap, and say so most vehemently. All I know is that I had positive results from using it. I started using it without ever seeing anything about it on the web, based solely on the recommendation of my hair stylist. After checking out a couple of sites that promote it, I can see why people would rip the product, as the claims made are pretty hyperbolic. Never-the-less, I believe that vasodilation is good for your hair, and I also believe that Nioxin helps with the absorption of minoxidil, especially at the front of the scalp, where the skin is thicker and minoxidil is known to be less effective. If I had not seen results from 5% minoxidil and proscar, then I would have given them up and gone back to Nioxin, since it definitely helped me.
Rogaine (Minoxidil) 2%: The standard generic stuff. Clinically proven to grow hair in at least some people. I used to buy Rogaine over the net from SmallWorld. Dave's a real nice guy, and it only costs 99 bucks for 12 bottles. I used about 1 ¼ to 1 ½ mls per application, 2 times a day, not because I think more is better, but because I have a lot of hair and much of the Rogaine ended up on the hair, not on the scalp. Applied after the Nioxin to a wet scalp. Cost: about $9/month.
Minoxidil 5%: Industrial strength. Also, clinically proven to grow hair in at least some people, although the numbers are a little better than for the 2% strength. I buy it as part of Dr. Lee's formulation over the net from Community Pharmacy. You need a prescription for this formulation, although it looks like the FDA will soon approve straight 5% Regaine, which is 5% Minoxidil, for OTC (over-the-counter, as in: non-prescription) sale. You can also order Regaine from some overseas pharmacies. Before I got my scrip, I obtained Regaine this way from Airport Oaks Pharmacy in New Zealand. I use 1 ml per application, 2 times a day. Cost: for Dr. Lee's formulation, which includes Retin-A in the evening application, is about $35/mo (four 65 ml bottles for about $130 plus shipping).
Folligen: A copper peptide complex, Folligen was developed from a wound care product that grew hair as a side effect. Essentially a metabolic stimulator, although it also contains Saw Palmetto, an anti-androgen. I used it at night, after the Rogaine. While I applied the Nioxin and Rogaine all over the top of my head, I only applied the Folligen to the front area of my scalp. (I finally stopped using it, because it was turning my gray hair VERY green.) Let it dry before you go to bed, or you'll stain your pillows green. I got mine from SmallWorld. Cost: about $18/month.
Saw Palmetto Extract: a known anti-androgen, Saw Palmetto Extract is already in the Folligen, so I didn't apply any more topically, although I did take it orally. Studies have shown that it also aids in controlling Benign Prostate Hypoplasia. Stopped using it, when I started using Proscar.
Retin-A: A metabolic stimulator, believed to accelerate cellular reproduction. As I said above, it's in Dr. Lee's formulation for evening application at 0.025%.
Systemic (All vitamins and saw palmetto extract are Vita-Smart brand unless noted):
Proscar (finasteride): anti-androgen. Originally developed to treat BPH, the active ingredient is currently awaiting FDA approval as a hair regrowth treatment. That treatment will be 1 mg per day, and Proscar tabs are 5 mg, so I use a pill cutter to divide the tab into quarters, thus, taking 1.25 mg per day. I take it at night, along with my vitamin supplements. I also buy this from from Community Pharmacy, and yes, you need a prescription for Proscar. Cost: about $20/mo. (approx. $60 for 30 tabs, which will last 3 months.)
Vitamin C: anti-oxidant. K-Mart. Cost: about $2.50/month.
Vitamin E: anti-oxidant. K-Mart. Cost: about $2.50/month.
BioFolicH: a vitamin supplement I found on the net that supposedly aids in growing hair. Relatively expensive and doesn't contain a whole hell of a lot of active ingredients. I used up my trial supply and switched over to a basic B-complex supplement. Cost: about $25/month.
Multi-Vitamin/Mineral: 'Men's Multi' Just a way to make sure I'm getting enough B vitamins. K-Mart. Cost: about $2.50/month.
Saw Palmetto Extract: See above. K-Mart. Cost: about $10/month.
Selenium: Added this, not for hair care, but because a recent study, reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association, indicates it may have some anti-cancer properties. With all the other stuff I'm taking, what's one more pill? K-Mart. Cost: about $2/month.
Note: Yes, I KNOW that any excess vitamins are just pissed away [except for the fat soluble ones like Vitamin E], and I have the yellow urine to prove it. However, there is evidence that the body CAN utilize some supplements, when they are available in higher quantities, Vitamin C for example, and it's an easy way to make sure I'm getting enough B vitamins and minerals. I work a lot of hours, don't always eat right, and smoke, so every little bit helps. Besides, they're cheap.
That's it for the components. Not really all that many, when you look at the list. It takes me about an extra 5 minutes in the morning and again at night to apply all the topical ingredients. The only change in my lifestyle from this program is that I now blow-dry my hair in the morning. That's because the Rogaine leaves it a little greasy and matted, if I just let it air dry. I also comb everything through my hair very well, to make sure it's distributed evenly. Combing is also a mini scalp massage. Other than that, no change.
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Cost
This is based on my curent program. You can add up the various components that I've used over the course of my treatment, if you want to design your own program, which I highly recommend, as everyone is different and will react differently to various treatments.
Topicals: about $35/month for Dr. Lee's formulation [not counting the Nioxin shampoo and conditioner, which are on par with other salon available shampoos and conditioners. More expensive than Pert, though.]
Supplements: about $30/month [Proscar + vitamins]
Total: $65/month
If you've been tracking this page, then you know that I used to spend about $60/mo. for all my non-prescription components. So, excluding the vitamins at $10/mo., which I'd be taking anway, I'm actually paying about $5/mo. LESS for the generally recognized state-of-the art treatment regimen of 5% minoxidil, 0.025% retin-a and 1.25 mg Proscar. Not bad.
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Application
AM - Shower with the Nioxin shampoo and Scalp Therapy (conditioner). Towel dry hair and apply Dr. Lee's morning treatment (5% minoxidil). Spread a little with fingers to ensure good coverage. Comb in. I used to blow dry my hair, but, since I cut back on the topical applications, I don't need to do that, anymore.
PM - Apply Dr. Lee's evening formulation (%5 minoxidil + 0.025% retin-a). Spread a little with fingers to ensure good coverage. Comb in. Wait a couple of minutes before going to bed.
Supplements Vitamins: Taken with orange juice just before breakfast in the morning, and again with orange juice, just before getting ready for bed at night. Proscar: Taken with vitamins at night.
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Program History
1) August
Treatment: Nioxin shampoo/conditioner/nourisher AM nourisher PM.
Effect: no change in hair growth, fall out reduced.
2) September
Treatment: Added Nioxin NX3 booster AM PM.
Effect: some vellus hairs around temples? Received compliment on hair - seems premature.
3) October
Treatment: Same.
Effect: vellus hairs seem longer, more of them, filling in 'wrap around' area at temples. Hair growing faster. Hair stylist sees some new growth on crown.
4) November
Treatment: Added Rogaine AM PM Folligen PM Vit C 1g, Vit E 400 IU, BioFolicH 1unit AM PM. Began applying Rogaine to crown of head as well.
Effect: vellus hairs approx. ¼". Hair stylist notes continued progress. Received a couple of compliments on my hair.
5) December:
Treatment: Added Saw Palmetto 250 mg PM. End month - Mega-multi vitamin AM BioFolicH only PM, Saw Palmetto 250 mg AM. Began blow drying hair, Rogaine somewhat greasy.
Effect: many vellus hairs approx. ½" starting to pigment, visible in mirror from distance as 'shadow'. Hair seems thicker all over top, a few new hairs at front of hairline. Some vellus hairs have grown more rapidly, appear to be maturing. Very fine, tiny vellus hairs appearing down to 'original' hairline at temples - it ain't dead yet. Hairstylist notes continuing progress 'hair is definitely thicker'. Saw friends over the holiday. Several compliments on hair. Had long discussion with one friend, who is very interested in my program.
6) January
Treatment: Boosted selenium to 100 mcg AM and PM.
Effect: Vellus hairs continue to mature, some can be combed back with other terminal hairs. Really filling in at temples. More short, new hairs along front of hairline. Growth seems to be spreading gradually down from 'adult' hairline at temples and filling in towards 'youthful' hairline.
7) February
Treatment: Cut back Folligen to use just around the temples where hair is thinnest. Was turning my gray hairs green.
Effect: Thought I experienced some fall out early in the month, but it was pretty mild. The vellus hairs that matured earlier are combed back with the rest of the terminal hairs. New vellus hairs are a fine down underneath them, slower to mature. Had friends visit for a weekend and received several comments along the lines of "What did you do to your hair?" Wrote down my program for one friend, who wants to try it.
Note: These notes were written several months after the fact. Even though I've kept a personal log of my treatment, I don't have as much detail to report as in previous months, because I just can't remember them as clearly. My apologies. The entry for September is more of a synopsis of progress to date.
8) March
Treatment: Stopped using Folligen.
Effect: Not much change. New vellus hairs seem 'reluctant' to grow out. Ordered some 5% minoxidil over the net to see, if I can boost the process a little. Never thought I'd go that route, but many emails from others have convinced me that it's worth a try. Stuff is expensive w/o a prescription, though.
9) April
Treatment: Added 5% minoxidil, applied at night in place of 2%.
Effect: Pretty much status quo. No loss, but no real gain. Green hair starting to grow out.
10) May
Treatment: Ran out of 5% minoxidil, back to 2%.
Effect: Maybe some new fuzz at temples? Green hair continuing to grow out. Visited family over Memorial Day and received a couple of compliments on my hair. Nice to hear.
11) June
Treatment:Got some more 5% minoxidil, for evening application, as well as Proscar, 1/4 tab, also at night. Stopped taking Saw Palmetto extract, since Proscar is a stronger anti-androgen. Ran out of Nioxin treatment and NX3 booster. Just using shampoo and conditioner. Stopped blow-drying hair, as it's not as wet w/o the Nioxin.
Effect: Decided to go whole hog and ordered Proscar from overseas. Arrived in one week with the 5% Regaine. Hair seems a little thicker in front. Green hair almost gone. Hopefully, no new loss will result from stopping Nioxin treatment.
12) July
Treatment:Got a prescription for Dr. Lee's formulation. On order. Should arrive in time to avoid running out, again.
Effect: Hair at temples is thick enough to support itself, when combed back, although scalp is still visible. No apparent fallout from boosting to 5% minoxidil and proscar. No real side effects from Proscar, either. No reduction in libido (sex drive), but some reduction in quantity of ejaculate. No breast tenderness. One year anniversary calls for a toast to my new hair. Program has been very successful. Green hair is finally gone. Must have actually stained hair still in the follicles to last this long.
13) August
Treatment:Using Dr. Lee's night time formulation, but still using Regaine in morning, until bottle exhausted.
Effect: One year anniversary calls for a toast to my new hair. Program has been very successful. New hairs continuing to appear and vellus hairs are getting longer.
14) September
Treatment:Using Dr. Lee's morning and night time formulations.
Effect: Definitely seeing new growth at temples a good 1/4 inch down from existing hairline. Vellus hair is colored and about 1/2 inch long. New hairs at front edge of hairline, too. Getting a straighter hairline out to the temples. Pretty amazing to watch. While I originally wanted to fill in the 'horseshoe' pattern of loss between the temples behind the hair in front, it looks like I'm actually regaining hairline at the temples, as well. Hair stylist said that hair in back has completely filled in to normal density, which was great news. Glad I don't have to worry about that anymore. She also confirmed new growth at the temples. My sister actually gave me a compliment over Labor Day weekend, which was a real accomplishment. The 'divot' I used to have just behind the hair in front has been gone for a few months. Looks like the 5% minoxidil and Proscar are kicking in. Was worth it to make the switch. No apparent ill effects from stopping the Nioxin treatments, or from the Proscar.
15) October
Treatment:No change (5% minoxidil AM, 5% minoxidil w/0.025% Retin-A and 1.25 mg finasteride PM + vitamins].
Effect: Vellus hairs at the temples continue to grow longer and melanize [become colored]. There are enough hairs at the temples that they have a little body, when i comb them back. Getting some buoyancy from the vellus hairs underneath. The pics I put up on my page were a great reality check. The difference between what my hair looked like before I began my program and what it looks like now were really obvious to me. It used to be that I hated they way my hair looked after I got it cut, because it showed how thin it was at the temples. While it is still thinner there than the rest of my hair, I no longer worry about haircuts, because it looks better each time.
16) November
Treatment:No change (5% minoxidil AM, 5% minoxidil w/0.025% Retin-A and 1.25 mg finasteride PM + vitamins].
Effect: Not much to report this month. Maturation of the vellus hairs at the temples continues. There are a couple of spots at the front hairline, just to the sides, that seem to be 'flaring out' slightly with new vellous hairs. I'll watch these areas closely, because, if they are filling in, then it looks like my hairline at the front is actually getting wider, and not just filling in at the temples. No new pics this month. I shot a few, but my QuickCam camera doesn't have the resolution to show such subtle changes. I'll try again next month. I only want to put pics on this page that show something of value.
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Comments
After 16 months, I feel that the program has been very successful and would classify the new hair growth as 'very good'. My hair is filling in down to my original 'adult' hairline [the one I had when I was about 30 and had a 'full' head of hair]. The hair at the crown has completely filed in. With the switch to 5% minoxidil and Proscar I'm seeing a new burst of vellus hair growth. While still relatively small, they are adding to the density I achieved severl months ago, before I started with the stronger stuff. You can still see my scalp at the temples, but there is a definite, lower hairline, and there are also enough terminal hairs to comb back. These appear to be supported by the fluffy, vellus hairs underneath, so the overall effect is fuller. There is WAY more hair, then when I started 16 months ago.
So, over a year later the process continues. What has most surprised me is the fine fuzz that has appeared all the way down to the hairline I had when I was a kid. I figured those follicles had long since moved on, but it shows that they are still capable of producing hair. While I don't really expect them to mature with my current program (those little guys haven't changed in appearance in several months), who knows what will happen, when Pileil, or one of the other new compounds now undergoing clinical trials, become available? I have experienced only minimal fallout, unlike what some have reported, so maybe staggering the addition of the treatment components worked. Or, maybe I have enough hair to not make the fallout noticeable. Staggering the addition of components might also have slowed the overall regrowth process somewhat, so I might have paid a small price there.
I started working out in the gym in January, after an absence of about 2 years, due to a torn rotator cuff. There's been some talk on the net about whether or not weight-lifting, because it boosts testosterone levels, can increase the rate of hair loss. Based on my own experience, I'd say there is either no effect, or the effect is minimal (maybe what I experienced in February). Also, even though I'm taking an anti-androgen like Proscar, I've had no problem in building muscle, and I haven't experienced any of the other potential anti-androgenic side effects, like tender breasts or impotency (Thank God).
The conversation I had with a friend of mine over the Christmas holiday was most interesting. He is a natural skeptic, and has commented on my hair loss in the past. He said my hair looked great and there was definitely more of it. When I saw him again in February [a reunion of my old band], he said it looked even better. I ended up giving him a breakdown of my program, because he, too, is slowly losing his hair, but didn't think there was anything he could do about it. Since I didn't tell him ahead of time that I was doing anything for my hair, his comments could be considered to be 'unsolicited' and a general endorsement of my program. I had another conversation in September with a friend, who is very bald on top (buzzes what he has to about 1/4 inch). He didn't believe any of the current treatments could regrow hair. I finally told him what I was doing and showed him the new hairs around my hairline. He was impressed to the point where he wants to try to regrow some hair. And this guy is a doctor. At this point I have received a number of positive comments from people, all unsolicited, and my hair stylist is really impressed with my hair regrowth. So I'm convinced that the results are real and not just wishful thinking. One other indicator that things are working: my hair is growing a lot faster. I've had to increase the frequency of my hair cuts from every 5 to 6 weeks to every 4 to 4 ½ weeks. Also, I'm not self-conscious about my hair anymore, which is a very nice feeling.
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Advice
If you start a hair care program, whatever it may be - BE PATIENT. It can takes months before results become noticeable. If you see a treatment that promises results in a couple of weeks, be very cautious.
Don't check every day for results, you'll just be disappointed. If you can, use a mirror in a different bathroom or bedroom to be your 'check' mirror, especially if the lighting is different. Only use it once a week.
Try to identify a landmark or two on your head, against which you can measure your progress. Something like a mole or a scar near your hairline is good. This way, you can eliminate some of the subjective bias you're bound to have as you try to see results. I have one 'lonely' terminal hair at the temple that was a good inch away from the rest of my hairline. Over the months I've watched my hairline slowly creep towards that hair. Soon, I suspect it won't be 'lonely' anymore.
Taking pictures is fine to gauge your progress, but that's easier said than done. It's HARD to take the same pic from month to month with identical angles and lighting conditions. Just try it with something easy, like a plant in a window, or your foot, where you can use he viewfinder. If you can't be consistent, don't waste your time or film.
Don't blab to everyone you know that you are on a hair re-growth program. You'll just get peppered with questions and possibly negative comments ["Hey, it's been a week and _I_ don't see any results."] Let people come to YOU and ask you what you're doing differently about your hair. Unsolicited comments are the best, and they will really make your day.
Be consistent in your program. Set up a pattern that becomes a part of your normal routine, so you don't have to 'remember' to do it, you just do it. If you miss a treatment, don't 'double up' the next time, you'll just waste material.
Everyone is different, especially as it applies to hair re-growth. What works for one person might not do anything for someone else. Don't be afraid to try other compounds that have similar modes of action.
