Currently Using Rogaine For Women With No Results – Can I Use Rogaine For Men?

I am a 43 year old female with androgenetic alopecia since puberty. I have been using Rogaine for women since but notice now it is not working that good. Please tell me if I can use Rogaine for men instead. And if not why? I am desperate and I am willing to give Rogaine For Men a try for a few months to see if it makes a difference.

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Unfortunately androgenetic alopecia is a disease of aging that gets worse as you get older.  Tooth decay is also a disease of aging that gets worse with aging.   Rogaine is similar to toothpaste; neither is perfect.  Tooth paste slows tooth decay and just because you get a cavity does mean the toothpaste is not working anymore.  If you were not using toothpaste, your tooth decay would be much worse. This is similar to Rogaine, if you were not using it your hair loss would be much worse and if you stop using Rogaine you will go back to your genetic predisposition (much worse).  I do think the 5% Rogaine (i.e. – Rogaine for men) is more effective in women and therefore I do have my female patients using it.  I just tell my female patients the side effect profile is similar to the 2% Rogaine, but slightly higher.

Sincerely,

Paul J. McAndrews, M.D.
Clinical Professor, USC School of Medicine
Diplomate, American Board of Dermatology
Senior Medical Advisor, International Alliance of Hair Restoration Surgeons

Paul J. McAndrews, MD Paul J. McAndrews, M.D. is a Clinical Instructor of Dermatology at the USC School of Medicine, teaching the residents the latest advances in hair loss and transplantations. Dr. McAndrews also lectures extensively to other physicians throughout the United States on the etiology and treatment of hair loss. Dr. McAndrews has a private practice located in both Pasadena and Beverly Hills, CA. Unlike most hair transplant surgeons, Dr. McAndrews was formally trained in a residency on hair transplants and the pathophysiology of hair loss. Dr. McAndrews formally learned the art of hair restorations during his dermatology residency at the distinguished USC/LAC Medical Center. He was honored with the distinction of Chief Resident. He also received years of professional training under the mentorship of Dr. M.B. Corbett, who is known as one of the early "pioneers in the field of hair restorations". In 1996, Dr. Corbett asked Dr. McAndrews to join him as a partner in his practice. Dr. McAndrews has since taken over Dr. Corbett's practice that was limited to the field of hair restorations. Dr. McAndrews is the senior medical advisor of the International Alliance of Hair Restoration Surgeons and recommended by the American Hair Loss Association. Visit Dr. McAndrew's Website: www.hairgrowthdoctor.com

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