A lot of people, both men and women, struggle with hair loss. It happens often enough that it's normal, but people still look down on those who must combat it. That battle was made a lot easier by the accidental discovery of Minoxidil, one of the leading anti-hair loss treatments available. It has a surprising history, comes in two varieties, and isn't perfect, but it still manages to work hard against hair loss and keep you looking young and healthy.
Originally, minoxidil was established as a medicine for high blood pressure. It didn't do too badly, but there were some significant side effects that not only made other options better, but led to the discovery of one of the world's leading anti-hair loss treatments. The side effects of the original minoxidil were weight gain, increased heart rate, chest pain, and hair growth. The drug was later changed to work under the brand name Rogaine, and it was sold in both 2% and 5% varieties, designed to combat hair loss.
The 2% variety is designed for minor hair loss in both men and women. Since it has less minoxidil, which is the active ingredient, it is not as effective as the 5% variety, but it also avoids one side-effect which women noticed when using that variety: unwanted facial hair. That's why the 5% solution is recommended for use by men only. Both varieties are a topical solution to be massaged into the scalp where hair loss has occurred, after you have washed your hair with shampoo.
Minoxidil does have a few issues that you will want to take into account before using it. The most significant side effect of the medicine is skin irritation among a small portion of those who use minoxidil. It may also make your hair look greasy, matted, or limp, since it is applied once your hair has been washed. It works best for the crown of the head, but not as well for the temples or a receding hairline. It is most effective for men with recent hair loss in a space four inches across or less.
Rogaine minoxidil is a great product for restoring lost hair. Now that you know its history, its varieties, and its effectiveness, you can make an educated decision about purchasing it for your own use or for someone you love.