I’ve had a love/ hate relationship with my hair for over 40 years.  My hair was straight until I went through puberty. I basically woke up when I was 13 and had spiral curls everywhere, almost had a blonde afro.  Back in the 1970’s no one knew how to cut naturally curly hair.  Needless to say it was a pain.  My hair is very fine and it started getting thin when I was in my early 30’s. I didn’t have a lot of options as to how I could wear my hair.  It sucked.  I was thrilled when Rogaine first came out.  It wasn’t cheap and you had to have a prescription. I was bummed as I really couldn’t afford it at the time.

After my son was born, my hair was falling out in handfuls.  I knew it was hormone related, but having thinning hair on top of that didn’t help.  By this time Rogaine was generic and available over the counter.  I gave it a try.  I used the women’s 2% version at first.  I was thrilled when the 5% solution came out.  My dermatologist said the 5% was okay for women.  I’ve been using minoxidil every day for the past fifteen years.

I have found the best price at Wal-Mart on the Equate brand.  I use it once a day.  My thinning was in my crown area, and I’ve been very pleased with the results.  It is a lifelong commitment though.  Once you stop using the product your new hair growth will fall out.  A three bottle supply of the 5% from www.walmart.com is $18.76.  This is a great value as I get six months use from the three bottle supply.  The Equate 5% foam at www.walmart.com is $19.92 for one can.

I use to use the dropper before going to bed, but it made my head itch.  Now I use it as soon as I get home from work, as it absorbs better.  Losing your hair as a woman is devastating.  So much of our appearance is wrapped up in our hair.  The only side effects I’ve had is that my hair is drier than normal.  I have naturally curly hair that is dry to begin with.

I use the 5% foam on my temple areas, as it’s easier to apply.  I’ve never massaged the liquid into my scalp and it works just fine. I will be using minoxidil for the rest of my life.  My hair will never look like it did when I was in my 20’s, but considering I’m 55, it looks pretty darn good.