by Barry Girolamo

Created on: August 08, 2009   Last Updated: October 22, 2010

You can add volume to your hair, and in many cases, actually thicken and grow new hair. Two products which are FDA approved for this purpose are Rogaine (that contains minoxidil, the active ingredient in Rogaine) which is a topical solution developed by the Upjohn Pharmaceutical company. It was originally sold only with a doctor's prescription, but can now be purchased over the counter in either a two percent minoxidil content solution, or in an extra strength five percent solution. These minoxidil solutions are affordably priced at any drug store, and in many department stores. This medication is applied to the scalp twice daily, and are sold in two different versions. One for males, and another for females. I'm not sure what the difference is, but there may actually be no difference, in that they both contain the active ingredient minoxidil. Minoxidil will not work on totally bald scalps, and has been shown to only grow new hair on the pate, and not in the front of the head. It is inexpensive and well worth a try. Give it at least a six month trial.

These minoxidil solutions do work to slow hair loss in most people, and in some cases, have even been show to induce the growth of new hair in balding areas. Minoxidil products will work on both men and women.

Propecia is the other treatment for hair loss which has been approved for hair loss, and is only available to men with a doctor's prescription. Women should never take Propecia, as it can have severe adverse side effects, one of which can affect unborn children. Women should not even handle Propecia, even though the pills are coated, as the residue from the pill can permeate the skin and enter into your system.

Propecia has been studied with double blind tests, and has proven to work to some extent in approximately ninety eight percent of men. There is a small percentage of men who have reported mild side effects, including a loss of libido, but these symptoms are usually reversible by a discontinuation of Propecia. I would recommend using a minoxidil product first, and if you are unsuccessful, add the use of Porpecia along with the use of minoxidil. In most cases, this combination will stop most hair loss, and has been shown to grow hair in many cases. A consultation with your doctor is a must before attempting any of these drugs.

Learn more about this author, Barry Girolamo.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.