|
Medical Treatments
For Hair Loss
Propecia
Since Propecia became available in January
of 1998 the entire concept of medically
treating hair loss has changed. Prior to Propecia's release there
was only 2% Rogaineª. Rogaine, also known as Minoxidil, had only
limited effectiveness, mostly to slow future hair loss. Today there
are several new and exciting products either currently available or on
the horizon.
Propecia - is manufactured by Merck &
Co. This is by far the most effective treatment. Studies have shown up
to 66% of men demonstrating some regrowth after 12 to 18 months. This
product requires taking a 1mg. pill daily. It works by blocking the
formation of DHT (the male hormone) from binding with the hair
follicle. This appears to interrupt the development of male pattern
hair loss in men. The generic name is Finasteride and is also used for
prostate enlargement under the brand name Proscar. (Not recommended
for women.)
Propecia was developed to treat
baldness in the top back and mid-scalp. There is no current evidence
that Propecia works on the hairline or recession in the temporal
areas. Propecia is available in 90 pill Pro-Packs and cost between
$125.00 to $175.00 and must be taken daily for the rest of your life
or until more effective methods become available.
For additional information on Propecia
visit:
http://www.merck.com/product/usa/propecia/cns/ppi/ppi.html
5% Rogaine
Manufactured by
Pharmacia & Upjohn. This product claims 45% more hair regrowth
than Regular Strength Rogaine (2% Rogaine). Although this may be true
Rogaine 2% grew very little or no hair on most people. Rogaine 2%
appears to be more effective with women and is usually the first
course of treatment in female pattern hair loss. (Currently 5% Rogaine
is not recommended for women.)
Initial indications are that 5% Rogaine
may be more effective when combined with Propecia. 5% Rogaine costs
between $25.00 to $30.00 and must be used twice daily.
If hair growth is accomplished you must
maintain Rogaine application or the new growth will be lost.
Tricomin
Manufactured by ProCyte Corporation.
The development of the Tricomin line of hair care products evolved from
years of scientific research involving copper and its relationship to
skin health. Tricomin is formulated to efficiently deliver vital
micronutrients to the hair follicle environment. Tricomin works by
strengthening and revitalizing your hair. While Tricomin's cosmetic
benefits will be realized in the short term, the added benefits of
younger; fuller healthier hair may require longer use. Tricomin can be
used effectively with other hair treatments including Rogaine and
Propecia. Excellent for both men and women.
The Tricomin product line
includes:
- Revitalizing
Shampoo - $19.95
- Restructuring
Conditioner - $19.95
- Conditioning
Shampoo - $19.95
- Solution
Follicle Therapy Spray - $54.95
-center piece of the product line
GraftCyte Post
Surgical Treatment
Manufactured by Procyte Corporation.
For the past year Dr. Hitzig has used GraftCyte Moist Dressing, Mist and
Shampoo as part of our post surgical care regimen. The unique copper
peptide technology has shown significantly
enhanced healing and
growth for the transplant patient. Dr. Hitzig
reported the improved healing and post
surgical cosmetic appearance of
patients at the recent ISHRS meeting .
|