Does Rogaine actually PREVENT male pattern baldness from occurring in the first place?

Minoxidil has been shown to slow the progression of hair loss in men. Some will also exhibit some degree of regrowth. However, it is important to remember that there is no way to effectively stop or completely reverse male pattern baldness. Additionally, stopping medical therapy of any kind is typically followed by a loss of any of the gains of treatment.As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS) with experience in hair restoration.

Not necessarily, but it can slow progression. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a hair loss expert to go over your condition and advise you on best treatment options. There are great non-invasive options like prp/progesterone and/or hair transplantation. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Minoxidil helps to stopping hair loss and thickening of hair . But ıf you stop to use minox after a long time usage, you may experience a fast thinning, even loss of hair because of ending action of active ingredient.  if someone used rogaine when they were young before they had any balding and then stopped using it, would they have the same degree of baldness they would've had.

Rogaine can slow male balding and for some men even reverse it a bit. However one never regains the density they once had. But if one stops they lose all the gains they made and quickly catch up to where they would have been. Rogaine is less effective than finasteride and side effects are also less.

Minoxidil (Rogaine) does not prevent balding. There are no medications that can prevent balding just treats the symptoms. The two best medications are Finasteride and Minoxidil in that order