Can I take Rogaine for traction alopecia?

Question

I read somewhere that Rogaine can help with traction alopecia (which I got due to hair extensions), and that once hair growth has returned, it can be safely stopped. Is this true? Or am I doomed to use Rogaine for the rest of my life? And a second question: can I use Rogaine only topically, or will its use impact the whole of my scalp? I'd like to use it only on the traction area and my temples, but I don't want the dread shed on the top of my scalp. Thank you!

William Yates, MD · Answer

If you have traction alopecia and if there is some hair in the area. Yes, Rogaine can be used, if there isn't any hair then it really won't do anything.  Once Rogaine is used and you receive results it has to be continued or what you have gained will go away.  The only area where you would possibly shed hair is where you are using it, if not applied in other areas, the shedding will not happen.Best of lucks!WY

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

You can try using minoxidil for traction alopecia or any type of alopecia,  The results may not be very significant.

Michael Meshkin, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

There are many causes of hair loss. if you suffer hairloss due to traction alopecia, using minoxidil will probably not help you recover your lost hair.

Can I take Rogaine for traction alopecia?

Answers (3)