Quote:
Originally Posted by kimm  Eeeeek!
Don't do it! (apply to areas other than scalp)
Rogaine doesn't work by inhibiting dht. It works as a vasodialator, meaning that it allows for more blood flow to your follicles. It helps give back some zip to ailing follicles. It doesn't address the root cause though (high androgens or dht)
In fact, one of the side effects of rogaine is increased facial hair, even if not used on the face (some of it gets absorbed systemically)
For some that side effect is a deal breaker, for others it's just a small price to pay for the chance at slowing the loss and regaining some hair.
So I'd also look for either a topical or internal either androgen inhibitor/dht blocker or both to add aide in Rogaine's effectiveness. |
You're right about Rogaine -- not only is some of it absorbed systemically, but it needs to remain on the scalp for hours to gain its maximum effect and if it gets left on overnight it tends to rub off on pillows etc. and thus come into contact with the face. Probably most of us who have a tendency to balding also have a strong tendency towards male-type beard growth and, whilst I think that my beard growth disturbs me less than beard growth disturbs most women and I don't mind at all having to shave every day, I certainly wouldn't be wanting to do anything that would have a real risk of increasing my beard growth -- I don't have a problem living with what I have, but the thought of doing anything that would have very real potential of a side-effect that would make me more masculine is something I'd avoid like the plague.