Initial irritation on Rogaine foam?

Maelstrom · Nov 2, 2010

I've bit the bullet and started using the foam, just on my crown, these past 2 nights. Already I can feel a 'tightness' on my scalp and a bit of irritation.

Having scalp psoriasis isn't going to help I know but did any guys get initial irritation when starting the foam only to have it settle down and ease off in time?

Maelstrom · Nov 13, 2010

To answer my own question - For the first 2 or 3 applications it did sting a little bit, felt kind of 'uncomfortable' and got me a little bit paranoid. However, I persevered and after 8 or 9 days now I can say that the foam is causing me no undue scalp irritation, so far at least.

Perhaps this info may be useful for future hair loss sufferers considering whether to start it or not.

geom341 · Dec 13, 2010

Hey, just a follow up question. Are you still using the foam? Is your scalp irritated? The reason I am asking is that I also have very sensitive scalp with a lot of dandruff. Even small things irritate it. So just wanted to ear your advise on should I use it or not. Thanks, George.

Maelstrom · Dec 15, 2010

Hi George.

The foam I started with was the one with a citrus-like scent. It was fine after the first couple of nights I applied it. I had to stop using it only because there was a fault with the aerosol and I'd only bought one can for testing purposes.

I've now bought some more foam and it is the unscented version. I've only used it twice so far but it seems even less irritating than the scented version.

I would say definately give it a try but you should have a regimen in place to deal with your dandruff issues. Here is an example of what I do:

Monday night: Apply Cocois ointment and leave on for 2 hours. Soak in bath and shampoo then rinse and apply a moisturising conditioner. I do not apply rogaine foam on this night.
Twice weekly (a.m.): Use Alphosyl 2-in-1 shampoo (coal tar 5% with conditioner)
Twice weekly: Nizoral shampoo 2%
Once weekly: Piroctone Olamine shampoo
Any other morning: gentle sls-free shampoo.

All shampoos are left on for 3-5 minutes and I'm only applying the rogaine foam at night btw.

HTH.