This hair loss product is a 5% custom solution that combines Minoxidil with Azelaic Acid. Developed by Dr. Richard Lee, a hair loss physician, it’s available by prescription only.

Xandrox’s two main ingredients tackle hair loss in two ways. The minoxidil stimulates hair growth, while the Azelaic Acid, which contains the 5 Alpha Reductase enzyme, blocks DHT. However, while minoxidil is a proven hair loss treatment, Azelaic Acid is only proven as an acne medication. Many patients feel that Xandrox is preferable to Rogaine because it’s less greasy.

As of yet, Xandrox has shown few side effects, and may cause less itching and flaking than Rogaine.

There may be some burning irritation though, due to the Azelaic Acid. But one type of Xandrox counteracts this side effect. It contains a Betamethasone Valerate, a corticosteroid.

However, you need to know that corticosteroids may cause problems. Short-term use is pretty safe, but if used long-term, they may cause thinning of the skin or skin damage. It may also lead to brittle bones or diabetes. For this reason, it’s recommended that if you have no itching problems that you should use the Betamethasone-free Xandrox. It is available, and it works as well as regular Xandrox.

There are other types of Xandrox, including the Day Formula, the Night Formula, and Xandrox 12.5%, a cream that’s used for more stubborn areas, such as the frontal hair line, and contains 12.5% Minoxidil. One ml of Xandrox should be applied twice per day, and a routine should be established.

This hair loss product, meant for women, is a synthetic form of Progesterone, a hormone and steroid that occurs naturally in the ovaries. The body uses the Progesterone treatment to control a variety of functions. These include the regulating of the menstrual cycles, anticancer properties, the slowing and prevention of bone loss and ensuring the female sexual organs’ health. Another important function of Progesterone is to maintain the hormone balance of estrogen.

But in regards to hair loss, Progesterone treatment is an effective DHT-inhibitor. However, there has not been much research conducted as to Progesterone’s impact to male and female pattern baldness (MPB, FPB). What research was conducted showed that it may be effective at stopping hair loss, but not at hair regrowth.

Nevertheless, topical Progesterone has been used by some European dermatologists in Europe to treat MPB and FPB. For this, they only used 1% or 2% topical concentrations, and no more than 40mg a day. Researchers believe that higher doses could cause menstrual irregularities.

Topical Progesterone is available as capsules, vaginal creams and suppositories. Patients use the medication by rubbing it into the body’s soft areas, such as the breast, abdomen, inner thighs and the palms of the hands (which is thought to be the most effective area).

It’s advised that women use about 1/8-1/2 teaspoon, once to twice daily, for 21days. Physicians also advise women to stop using the medication for 5-7 days each month. They also advise women to change the application areas periodically.

Balding Has Been Cured

Try telling that to 80 million men and women who are suffering from hair loss in the United States. They will laugh at you. Yet on a daily basis we are bombarded with ads for hair loss treatments like Avacor, Hair Genesis, Fabao and Procerin that use misleading advertising to sell their products. Thanks to their persuasive messages promising to regrow hair, consumers will spend nearly one billion dollars trying to find an effective hair loss remedy and fall victim to misleading advertising like this.

Thinning hair is a source of distress for millions of men and women so it is not unusual for them to seek help from anything that sounds like it will work. Most questionable hair loss products use similar, misleading marketing techniques ranging from claims to testimonials and photos.

Hair Loss Product Claims

Many hair loss products claim to be able to restore hair through the use of drugs, herbal lotions or other exotic applications like lights, lasers or electrical fields. While many of these products have been around for years, there is little evidence that they can restore hair.

How are they allowed to make such claims? These products often use small amounts of generic drugs found in Propecia and Rogaine (finasteride and minoxidil) which allows them to make the claim to stop hair loss or they imply hair growth with 'cosmetic' claims.

Misleading Marketing

Some hair loss products lead you to believe that they can stop hair loss by parsing their words. They can't come out and claim to regrow hair or stop hair loss, so they advertise vague claims like "thicker, fuller hair". This is a 'cosmetic' claim that any product can make. Be advised that cosmetic claims cannot restore hair or grow hair because they are not proven to do so.

False Testimonials

With the anonymous nature of Internet postings, people posing as users will mislead others with false testimonials. Often, positive reviews are produced by people compensated to post these messages. Since there is no real regulation of online postings, consumers are advised to take testimonials with skepticism.

Phony Photos

Most product advertising that claim that you can "Regrow Hair!" or make your hair 'thicker and fuller' and show a photo of a balding person with thin hair next to a photo of the same person with thicker hair covering the baldness. Photos don't lie, do they?

Well, yes they do.

You can prove it yourself. Take a photo of a head with thinning hair using a flash camera and then photograph the same head without the flash. The photo with the flash will look like a bald head and the photo without the flash will look like more hair.

Lighting, length of hair and how the hair is arranged on the head determine whether a photo of a head looks bald or not. Most people go through the same routine as balding advances: they push hair from here to there and hair spray it into place in the hope that no one will notice that we are going bald. To the extreme, this becomes the 'comb-over' hair style.

Review the photos of hair loss products you've seen. In most cases there will be just a few and they will all have misleading elements like lighting, hair style and length of hair in the 'before and after' photographs. If the products or services are really legitimate, there should be dozens of photos, if not hundreds or thousands.

The FDA and the FCC

Sadly, we think that the United States Food and Drug Administration and the Federal Communications Commission (agencies who regulate such issues) can stop these scams. Unfortunately, they can't. Since the FDA approved Minoxidil and Finasteride as effective in stopping hair loss, any inclusion of these products in any form enables marketing companies to make hair restoration claims.

Even the studies done for Rogaine and Propecia are not that encouraging. When Rogaine was studied (active ingredient is minoxidil), 16% of the placebo group had measurable new hair growth. Four out of twenty-five people had real, measurable hair growth when they believed they were using something that worked. Both studies were limited in time and scope. To read the studies that were done achieve FDA approval, visit the FDA web site and scroll down to Propecia and Rogaine. (http://www.fda.gov/cder/foi/nda/index97.htm )

Hair Loss and Hair Restoration

If a person is genetically prone to hair loss and balding, FDA proven hair loss treatments may help slow the process if they are used early and often. If you are like many and have already lost more hair than you're happy with, there is only one option to restoring your own natural hair: hair transplants. Hair transplants have become an art in the restoration of natural hair which is genetically resistant to the causes of balding.

Like any surgical solution, your success depends upon the quality of the doctor you choose. Doctors who are successful in restoring a natural looking head of hair are carefully reviewed by the Coalition of Hair Restoration Physicians for membership in this exclusive organization. They must allow access to past patients, confirm their training and provide photos and videos of their patients.

While hair transplants are not possible for everyone, they are now more natural and affordable than ever before.

View hundreds of real hair transplant photos done by the world's top hair loss specialists who are members of the Coalition of Hair Restoration Physicians.

For many hair loss suffering men and women, topical concealers are a necessary aspect of the "daily routine." Usually composed of hair shaft adhering microfibers or darkening cream, concealers help balding men and women both camouflage areas of noticeable baldness and increase the apparent density of thinning hair. Below, we provide our readers with a product review of the new and popular hair loss concealer Caboki.

Caboki was released back in 2005 but is only just now receiving more attention, most likely due to increased advertising. Like others before it, Caboki concealer claims to be a "hair loss breakthrough". Despite ambitious promises, Caboki's claims leave several unanswered questions: is Caboki really a breakthrough concealer? How does it compare to other, similar products like Toppik, DermMatch and COUVre? Is Caboki a worthwhile product for purchasing, or will it fall from grace like other alleged "breakthrough" hair loss miracles before it?

While many products, such as "Toppik" (a popular microfiber-style concealer) and "Couvre" (a concealing cream) are popular and trusted within the hair loss community, new, unproven concealers arrive on the market every day. What's more, many of these new concealers try to "best" the products currently offered and claim to camouflage hair loss in a way "never seen before." However, as with many alleged miracle cures, these products often fail to meet expectations and leave hair loss sufferers disappointed and discouraged. So let's explore how Caboki works to conceal hair loss below.

Caboki is comprised of a series of charged microfibers that, when applied to the scalp, tightly bind hair shafts and create a denser, fuller appearance. According to the manufacturer, these microfibers are comprised of two different elements: Moroccan Gossypium Herbaceum fiber and iron oxide-based natural (mineral-based) colorants. The makers of Caboki claim these elements allow the product to create a natural, healthy appearance, capable of withstanding harsh lighting conditions, sweat, wind, and rain.

However, because these elements have been used in other concealer products (Toppik particles, for example, are both charged and made from natural keratin), Caboki still must demonstrate why it's revolutionary. So, what makes Caboki a "hair loss breakthrough?" According to the manufactures, Caboki differs from other concealers in the following ways:

• Caboki particles, unlike other microfiber concealers, are negatively, not positively charged. Allegedly, positively charged particles (usually made from wool fibers) possess a greater tendency to repel and oppose not only each other, but also the positively charged hair shafts. Because of this, when the particles attach near each other on a hair shaft, they are more likely to repel and detach. According to Caboki creators, negatively charged fibers (made from Moroccan Gossypium Herbaceum fiber) do not experience this intense phenomenon, and create a much greater (200%), electronically attractive (negative to positive), bond. If this is true, Caboki microfibers should bind and adhere to hair shafts with a much stronger, more permanent affinity.
• Because Caboki particles create a stronger charged bond, the thicker, more volumized hair shafts are likely to stand erect and less non-bonded concealer will collect on the scalp. This combination, according to Caboki, will eliminate the "dull, flat" appearance associated with other concealer products.
• By only utilizing natural elements (Moroccan Gossypium Herbaceum fibers and iron oxide colorants), Caboki avoids some of the potentially harmful synthetic dyes, fillers, and artificial preservatives used in other concealer products.

So, it's now clear why the manufacturers of Caboki believe it is a superior product, but does this mean Caboki is a legitimate hair loss concealer? Does it truly outshine other concealer product currently on the market?

While the product is still fairly new, most anecdotal experiences and testimonials from real hair loss suffering men and women are positive. Most individuals believe the negatively charged Caboki particles bind strongly to the positively charged hair shafts and create a longer-lasting increase in density. Furthermore, the particles seem to be more resistant to potentially damaging elements like water, sweat, and wind. Having said that, many individuals report some common problems experienced with other concealer products – concealer wiping off on pillows and clothes, some smearing with sweat, and difficultly creating a natural appearance in the hairline. However, these same individuals claim the problems occur less frequently with Caboki. Altogether, it's likely that Caboki is both a helpful hair loss concealer and equivalent to other products currently on the market. While it is clear that Caboki does possess some advantages and interesting claims, it could be difficult to quantify whether it truly exceeds or simply meets the standard set by other available hair loss concealers. Truthfully, only time and the opinion of hair loss sufferers will determine whether Caboki lives up to its claims and defines itself as a legitimate concealer breakthrough.

Reviving Thinning Hair

These types of treatments work by stimulating hair growth. However, they can't stop hair loss completely as they don't address the root causes of hair loss. Products that act to stimulate hair growth include Rogaine, Tricomin, Folligen, Proxiphen (along with Prox-N and Nano Shampoo) and Retin-A.

Tricomin

Tricomin, which is used by men and women, is a topical spray that has undergone a wide variety of scientific testing. The spray’s main ingredient is copper, which has been proven to be beneficial for hair.

The FDA has conducted some clinical studies, with the subjects applying the treatment twice per day for 24 weeks. These results were shown to be very positive. However, the product’s parent company, ProCyte Corporation, chose to release Tricomin as a cosmetic. They wanted to avoid the FDA approval process, which tends to be very lengthy.

Tricomin may be an effective option for those who want a treatment that’s undergone scientific testing, yet isn’t drug-based.

The product can be used safely by men, women and children. It’s also non-irritating and has no known side effects. Tricomin can be used for any type of hair loss

The product should be sprayed to damp or dry hair twice each day. But if you’re using another topical treatment, such as Rogaine, you should wait a few hours before applying Tricomin. This is because the scalp may turn a greenish color when mixed with other products. However, this discoloration isn’t permanent and washes out. And like other treatments, Tricomin needs to be used regularly to maintain its results.

Besides the spray, Tricomin is available as a shampoo and conditioner. They should be used as an addition and not as a replacement, though.

For more detailed information of Tricomin Follicle Therapy Spray, Shampoo and Conditioner, click here.

Folligen

The makers of Tricomin make this product, available as a cream, lotion and spray. It was originally designed as a skin repair cream in the Dermatology Department at the University of California at San Francisco.

However, a 41-year-old woman with severe hair loss re-grew lost hair in two and one-half months with the cream. The company, Skin Biology, has since marketed this cream, which also contains copper-peptide as a hair loss treatment. The blue-colored copper-peptide complexes are meant to improve hair vitality and the health of the scalp and hair follicles.

Folligen products are meant for both men and women. They feature a cream for hairline application, spray for overall use, and lotion for bald spots. While Folligen may work on its own, its best results may be seen when it’s used with products like Rogaine.

Essentially, Folligen’s products soothe irritated scalps. They also relieve the itching and burning associated with Rogaine. However, the Folligen spray may cause itching or burning. Also, because the cream and lotion are bright green, it’s better to use them at night, while covering your pillow.

And while you can wash Folligen off easily, it’s not advisable for people with very light blonde hair to use the product. They may develop a greenish tinge to their hair.

Proxiphen, Proxiphen-N, NANO Shampoo

Proxiphen is a prescription formula topical cream that has not yet received FDA approval. It combines the power of minoxidil and other chemicals. The cream should be applied everyday for the first 8 - 12 months, and after that, every other day. Proxiphen is dispensed only when a physician gives a diagnosis of hair loss.

Proxiphen-N, the non-prescription Proxiphen is less expensive and is also not as strong. It’s advisable for patients to use minoxidil with Proxiphen-N.

NANO (nicotinic acid N-Oxide) shampoos and conditioners are an excellent compliment to your existing minoxidil treatment. They contain NANO, which is a minoxidil-like hair growth stimulator. They also have agents that stimulate hair growth. These products are beneficial when used with Proxiphen and Proxiphen-N.

In order to see some results, Proxiphen-N and the NANO products need to be diligently used for at least 8-10 months at the very least.

A one-month supply at prescription strength is about $100. A 2-month supply of Proxiphen - N will cost $59.95. A 90-day supply of NANO Shampoo and Conditioner will cost $39.95 and $29.95, respectively.

Retin-A

Retin-A (also known by its scientific name, tretinoin gel 0.1%), is a topical treatment that’s primarily used as an acne medication. However, research has shown that Retin-A, either by itself or with Rogaine, may grow some hair in those with male pattern baldness or female pattern baldness.

To use Retin-A, you should apply a thin layer with a gauze pad or cotton swab to the affected areas at bedtime. Remember to wash your hands immediately after using the product! You should also take care not to get any Retin-A near the eyes, mouth, or open cuts. The medication may irritate sensitive skin.

It should also be mentioned that if Retin-A is used more often, the results will not improve. Rather, the side effects may increase. These effects include an immediate warming of the skin. Other skin problems may include peeling, itching, scaling, redness and maybe mild stinging. Luckily, once your skin adjusts to the medication, these effects should subside.

Retin-A may also cause increased sensitivity to sunlight as well as wind and cold. For these reasons, you should avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and sunlamps. You should also use effective sunscreens, and wear protective clothing.

In regards to pregnant mothers, research hasn’t shown any risk of birth defects, as of yet. Nevertheless, physicians recommend using Retin-A during pregnancy only if necessary. You should also consult your doctor before breast-feeding. One tube of Retin-A Cream can be purchased for about $28.00.

Click to learn more about Superoxide Dismutase (SOD's)

It was Hippocrates, the “Father of Modern Medicine”, who first recognized a connection between hair loss and the sexual organs. Hippocrates’ studies of eunuchs (men castrated before puberty) observed that these men did not suffer from hair loss.

We know today that this is due to the absence of testosterone, which is normally converted into dyhydrotestosterone or DHT – the active ingredient in baldness. In March 1995, Duke University researchers came to the conclusion that " . . . while castration may be a cure, it is not commercially acceptable."

Hippocrates had a personal interest in finding a cure for baldness as he suffered from hair loss. He developed a number of different treatments including a mixture of horseradish, cumin, pigeon droppings, and nettles to the scalp. This and other treatments failed to work and he lost the rest of his hair. The area of permanent hair on the back and sides of the head (from which donor hair is taken for hair transplants) is also known as the “Hippocratic wreath.”

Ancient Rome and Hair Loss

Moving from Greece to the Roman Empire, we find that Julius Caesar employed a variety of methods to hide his thinning hair. In addition to the laurel wreath that he wore, he first grew his hair long in the back, and then combed it forward over his bald spot. Yes, the “Comb Over” is ancient.
Learn how man has treated hair loss up to modern times.
Being a Eunuch – the sure way to stop baldness

In the 1940’s, the studies of Hippocrates and Aristotle were continued. Both men had concluded that eunuchs always kept all their hair.

This finding was backed up by the work of Dr. James Hamilton.

He discovered that certain male hormones (missing in eunuchs) were critical to the development of male pattern baldness.

There are several topical treatments like Revivogen, Crinagen, Progesterone Creams, Kevis 8 and Xandrox that claim to minimize or block the amount of dyhydrotestosterone (DHT) present in the scalp.

DHT acts as a catalyst for the hair loss process as it binds with the receptor sites in hair follicles that are genetically vulnerable to hair loss. Over time, this process of DHT acting on the genetically vulnerable hair follicles hurts their ability to grow healthy hair.

The success of these topical treatments in reducing DHT levels in the scalp has not been clinically proven. However, the possibility of reducing DHT only in the scalp region rather than through out the entire body as with Propecia or Avodart is appealing.

Click to learn more about how to stop hair loss with Hair Growth Stimulators