ANYONE who has ever been desperate to grow thinning hair has heard of minoxidil, the active ingredient in Rogaine.
But a pharmacist says there are other ways to grow hair, including using a lesser-known ingredient that also has an “x” in the middle.
Carolina Gonçalves is Superintendent Pharmacist at Pharmaceuticalan online prescription service based in the UK.
Speaking to The US Sun, she shared her unmissable tips for nourishing thinning hair.
AMAZING INGREDIENTS
Gonçalves said scientific research supports the use of biotin, caffeine, minoxidil and copexyl in hair care.
“Biotin assists in the production of amino acids that are part of the structure of keratin – the protein that makes up hair, promoting stronger hair growth and reducing fragility,” she said.
“Caffeine, on the other hand, is believed to help stimulate hair follicles, improve blood circulation to the scalp, and potentially prolong the hair growth phase.”
She revealed that research into the use of caffeine in hair care is ongoing.
“Minoxidil dilates blood vessels, allowing more oxygen, blood, and nutrients to reach the follicles, thereby increasing the size and strength of the hair follicles,” she continued.
“Kopexil has similar effects and can increase the elasticity of collagen around the hair root.
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“Prevents hair loss, anchoring strands to the scalp and contributing to the density of hair fibers.”
POWERFUL POTIONS
Gonçalves said several over-the-counter and prescription products can support hair growth.
Among them is the high-potency topical medication minoxidil, which is sold as Regaine Solution for Men, Regaine Foam for Men, Regaine Foam for Women, and Regaine Solution for Women.
“The active ingredient minoxidil helps blood flow to scalp hair follicles to increase follicle size and hair shaft diameter,” she said.
“This prevents further hair loss and promotes new hair growth.
“I would also recommend finasteride for men to treat baldness.
“Finasteride is a type of medication called a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor that works by stopping testosterone from turning into another hormone known as dihydrotestosterone, which can stop hair growth.”
Hair growth oils, sprays and supplements
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She added that dermatologically tested Nizoral shampoo can be used to treat and prevent dandruff.
“It contains the active ingredient ketoconazole, which has antifungal properties and treats the underlying cause of dandruff,” she said.
“It helps soothe scalp irritation and provides a better environment for hair growth.”
Carolina Gonçalves previously spoke to The US Sun about the best supplements for healthy hair.
Zinc, biotin, vitamin D, iron and collagen powder were among her recommendations.
She also advised wearing loose strands to avoid prolonged tension on the hair roots.
This story originally appeared on The-sun.com read the full story