Overview
Male-pattern baldness, or androgenetic alopecia, is characterized by a gradual loss of hair. It often begins with a receding hairline just above the temples and thinning of the hair around the crown. Eventually, this hair loss progresses to baldness across the top of the head. However, there are sprays available that can treat this condition. These sprays contain minoxidil, one of two medications approved by the FDA to treat hair loss in men.
Minoxidil
Minoxidil is a topical solution used in the treatment of male-pattern baldness. It’s available in either a spray or foam and sold under a variety of brand names, including Rogaine, Follicare and Provillus. When applied to the scalp regularly, it slows the progression of hair loss and might even encourage the growth of lost hair, explains the Mayo Clinic. It’s most effective at the onset of male-pattern baldness, since it works best at retaining hair than stimulating regrowth.
Types
There are two types of minoxidil available for men suffering from androgenetic alopecia. The first is one containing a 2 percent concentration. It’s available in many over-the-counter sprays. The second contains a 5 percent concentration, which is only available by prescription, as of 2010. The higher concentration might provide better results, but everyone reacts differently to the drug. Consult a dermatologist to determine which product is best.
Features
Regardless of the concentration, the topical spray is administered through a metered-spray applicator, notes the National Institutes of Health. Six pumps of the bottle twice a day provide the appropriate dose required to slow hair loss and potentially produce new hair growth. Applying more than the specified amount does nothing to encourage better results.
Time Frame
It can take anywhere from four months to a year to see results, advises the National Institutes of Health. But the Mayo Clinic recommends talking to a dermatologist if no improvement is seen in six months. Another form of treatment might be necessary to slow hair loss and encourage hair regrowth.
Considerations
While some men do benefit from the use of minoxidil, the American Hair Loss Association doesn’t recommend this medication as the first line of treatment for androgenetic alopecia. It explains that results are marginal at best. Finasteride is considered more effective in slowing hair loss and stimulating regrowth. This is the other medication approved by the FDA to treat male-pattern baldness, but unlike minoxidil, this oral medication is available only by prescription. If this form of treatment fails to provide results, the topical application of minoxidil should then be used, according to the association.
