Sun 31 Aug 2008
Is Provillus Better Than Rogaine for Alopecia Areata Hair Loss?
Category: Non Surgical Treatments , Product Reviews , Rogaine (Minoxidil) , TopicalsWould Provillus hair treatment really help in baldness type of hair loss? I have had this since I was 13 years old and I am not 24 years old. It has been on and off ever since. At the moment, I’m using minoxidil 2%.
Though Provillus hair loss treatment comes in both a topical and oral solution, the only proven ingredient in this product is minoxidil which is in the topical formula. Some anecdotal evidence exists that saw palmetto (an “active” ingredient in their oral solution) might help block DHT, the hormone responsible for male pattern baldness.
In my opinion, if your alopecia is genetic, I would stick with Rogaine (which contains minoxidil) and consider Propecia (finasteride) for men only, which are both FDA approved to treat baldness. Be sure to consult with a physician and learn about the benefits, limitations, and potential side effects of these medications.
But based on your description above, of “on and off”, I’m wondering if you have alopecia areata, which is characterized by rapid hair loss in a targeted area leaving you with a bald patch in certain areas of the scalp or body. In about 50% of all cases, those suffering from this condition experience hair regrowth without any treatment. However, some treatments have been used including a combination of minoxidil, steroid injections, clobetasol or fluocinonide, creams, cyclosporine (a topical immunotherapy), and anthralin or topical coal tar. Because Provillus topical treatment contains minoxidil, this could probably be used instead. However, generic minoxidil is less expensive.
Be sure to consult with a dermatologist who can recommend a proper treatment for alopecia areata.
Bill
Associate Publisher of the Hair Transplant Network and the Hair Loss Learning Center
View my Hair Loss Weblog
Technorati Tags: Provillus, hair treatment, baldness, hair loss, minoxidil, hair loss treatment, DHT, male pattern baldness, alopecia, Rogaine, Propecia, finasteride, treat baldness, alopecia areata, bald patch, hair regrowth
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September 5th, 2009 at 7:42 pm
I have alopecia areata and it’s getting bad. Im 17 and it just started 5 months ago. Before this I have had long strong healthy hair for 6 years and cut it 1 year ago. After I cut it I had 360 waves. And now I have alopecia and it’s driving my into a lot of stress. I getting to the point where I’m losing focus on school. I tried so much now I just need to know will this help me
September 6th, 2009 at 1:34 am
Parrish,
Unfortunately, there is no cure for Alopecia Areata. However, in many cases, hair loss due to Alopecia Areata does return on it’s own in several months. If you haven’t already, you may want to consult with a dermatologist who can go over your treatment options with you, most of which, will probably improve the chance of full hair restoration. In the meantime, you may want to try to get creative with hairstyles that can help to conceal the area of baldness.
All the best in successful hair restoration,
Bill
Associate Publisher
October 14th, 2010 at 9:54 pm
Hi,
I’ve had alopecia areata for the past ten years now. I first lost my hair when I was ten, and its been an on and off thing since then. Every time the hair grows back, and I cut down on Minoxidil, it seems to revert to the patches. I’m wondering, is there any way to ensure it doesn’t come back once its more or less gone? ANd are there any non-minoxidil medications that may be taken to ensure that the disease is kept at bay; and which have no side effects?
October 20th, 2010 at 3:04 am
Rohan Ray,
As I’m sure you are aware, there is no cure for alopecia areata. However, there are treatments other than Rogaine including, Diprolene and Temovate.
All drugs carry the potential for adverse side effects. I suggest discussing any treatments options with a dermatologist specializing in hair loss.
David (TakingThePlunge)