Alpecin Review – Get the Facts
[easyazon_link cloaking=”default” keywords=”alpecin” localization=”default” locale=”US” nofollow=”default” new_window=”yes” tag=”hotogrhaba-20″][/easyazon_link][easyazon_link cloaking=”default” keywords=”alpecin” localization=”default” locale=”US” nofollow=”default” new_window=”yes” tag=”hotogrhaba-20″]Alpecin Caffeine Shampoo[/easyazon_link] is made up of a caffeine enhanced formula that immediately provides the hair roots with ingredients that help counteract premature hair loss, strengthen hair and speed up hair growth. For those of you unfamiliar with the effective use of caffeine to stop hair loss, the Alpecin review below will explain it’s prognosis for helping hair to grow stronger, faster and thicker. Alpecin is also an ideal shampoo to use as part of an affordable routine to fight hair loss like the daily treatment outlined in this article.
Get [easyazon_link cloaking=”default” keywords=”Alpecin” localization=”default” locale=”US” nofollow=”default” new_window=”default” tag=”hotogrhaba-20″]Alpecin from Amazon[/easyazon_link]
If you’ve never tried this shampoo, or are considering trying it, this Alpecin review should help you decide if it’s the next product you’ll be adding to your routine.
Alpecin Review
Does Alpecin Work?
After using [easyazon_link cloaking=”default” keywords=”Alpecin” localization=”default” locale=”US” nofollow=”default” new_window=”default” tag=”hotogrhaba-20″]Alpecin[/easyazon_link] for only a few months, there were obvious results. I noticed within the first few weeks that my hair wasn’t breaking off like it used to, and it already had more of a natural shine. Most importantly, it’s reduced the numbers of hairs that I lose. I rarely see hairs in my hands, or in the sink and shower like I used to. In my humble opinion, does Alpecin work? YES, it works! So basically, Alpecin not only serves to reduce hair loss, but also promotes healthier, shinier hair.
You may also be interested in how to hide your hair loss easily and affordably with Toppik.
I’ll be honest – I had my doubts at first, and was on the fence as to whether or not Alpecin was a gimmick. I’m big on sticking with what I know is a solid product and works, like Lipogaine for my minoxidil fix. However, after a great deal of research and few years of use, I am totally sold and will definitely continue to use this shampoo. I had to use a shampoo anyway, so naturally I am quite pleased to find one that helps me keep my hair. It’s also worth mentioning that I scoured the internet reading information from others who have written about their results in an Alpecin Review, and almost all of these reviews have been very encouraging.
NOTE: I think it’s very important to understand the purpose of this shampoo. Alpecin reduces hair loss and strengthens existing weak hairs or hair roots. It is NOT a hair growth product like Lipogaine. For this reason, it is perfect as a regular shampoo to use with a daily hair loss treatment routine.
Alpecin is affordable
This site focuses on affordable ways to deal with hair loss, and let’s face it; shampoo is something we all use anyway. Alpecin is not that much more expensive than a decent regular shampoo, whereas most other shampoo products designed to battle hair loss cost quite a bit more.
Search [easyazon_link keywords=”Alpecin shampoo” locale=”US” localize=”y” tag=”hotogrhaba-20″]Amazon for Alpecin shampoo[/easyazon_link].
Ingredients?
The caffeine complex used in Alpecin is an active ingredient formula from caffeine, the trace element zinc, vitamin A and niacin.
How does Alpecin work?
Alpecin Caffeine Shampoo C1 contains caffeine that helps to stimulate hair growth directly at the roots. Caffeine promotes hair growth and has been proven to reduce hereditary hair loss. The main culprit of hereditary hair loss is DHT, and once inside the hair follicle, caffeine counters harmful effects of DHT.
Studies were performed in a Hair Organ Culture Model (HOCM ) at the Division of Dermatology and Allergies of Friedrich Schiller University in Jena, Germany (Dr. T. W. Fischer, Prof. Dr. P. Elsner). According to research done at the University of Jena, hair follicles that were treated with caffeine showed a highly significant growth rate after 24 hours, and further significant growth was observed after eight days.
The measurement of total culture time in the HOCM yielded further evidence that caffeine exerts a positive effect on the vitality of hair roots. The hair follicles exposed to caffeine under culture conditions exhibited a 37% longer lifetime in comparison with the control.
This information has been used to create Alpecin. Special carriers have been developed by Alpecin to allow the caffeine complex to be delivered directly into the hair roots.
Alpecin Caffeine penetrates even though the shampoo is rinsed out. In just a short time (2 min), caffeine travels along the hair shaft directly into the hair follicles. The caffeine complex remains on the scalp for 24 hours, which effectively blocks the formation of DHT that causes hair follicle shrinkage. If you leave the shampoo on your hair for longer more caffeine will be absorbed into the scalp.
The shampoo has passed all the dermatological tests and therefore suitable for all skin types and especially for sensitive skin. If you’re keen on making your own natural caffeine shampoo, a simple recipe for a homemade coffee oil Shampoo can be found in this article on using caffeine to regrow hair.
Alpecin is developed for men, but appropriate for women
[easyazon_image align=”right” height=”110″ identifier=”B01EI3DFQ0″ locale=”US” localize=”y” nw=”y” nf=”y” src=”https://www.hairforkeeps.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/412tUwjp2L.SL110.jpg” tag=”hotogrhaba-20″ width=”54″]This shampoo is particularly suitable for men, because male pattern baldness leaves men looking for a shampoo that can reduce hair loss and strengthen hair that has already started to thin. [easyazon_link cloaking=”default” keywords=”Alpecin” localization=”default” locale=”US” nofollow=”default” new_window=”yes” tag=”hotogrhaba-20″]Alpecin products[/easyazon_link] were specifically developed for the requirements of male scalps, and have a masculine fragrance and container. Also, based on the intentional omission of softeners such as silicone, the hair structure improves after just a few hair washes – with the added bonus of enhanced hair grip. Fine and weakened hair becomes stronger and can be styled better.
Many women also suffer from hair loss or may simply want a shampoo to promote hair growth, and for this reason may also want to use Alpecin. The caffeine-based active ingredient complex is also effective in women, and the product can also be used by women. There is absolutely no reason why this product would not be just as effective on a woman’s scalp as it is on a man’s. Throughout my research of Alpecin, and looking for the answer to the question “does Alpecin work?”, I noticed that many women have written an Alpecin review to express how they have used this shampoo with very positive results.
How to use Alpecin:
A daily wash with [easyazon_link cloaking=”default” keywords=”Alpecin” localization=”default” locale=”US” nofollow=”default” new_window=”yes” tag=”hotogrhaba-20″]Alpecin C1 Shampoo[/easyazon_link] immediately provides the hair roots with the activating ingredient. Alpecin Caffeine shampoo Hair Energizer is detectable after being left on for as little as 2 minutes. That’s right, the shampoo simply needs to be left in the hair for two minutes for the active ingredients to be absorbed into the scalp. If you have the time to leave it in longer, even more caffeine will be absorbed into the scalp.
NOTE*: I should mention that I use Alpecin on the days when I don’t use Nizoral shampoo. Nizoral has become a very important part of my hair loss routine, and alternating it with Alpecin is an excellent way to make regular shampooing count towards my fight against hair loss!
What would an Alpecin review be without explaining how easy it is to use? – Here are the simple instructions I follow for using Alpecin:
• Distribute shampoo evenly into your hands.
• Massage into your wet hair.
• Leave on the scalp for 2 minutes, from application to rinse.
• Rinse thoroughly.
• Repeat if necessary.
Alpecin is perfect to use with minoxidil and trichogen
The main reason I first decided to try Alpecin caffeine shampoo is that it does not contain dimethicone – a silicone-based compound that has a lubricating, moisturising effect. This coating would make it more difficult for minoxidil or trichogen to be absorbed into the scalp, especially if you apply these treatments after you wash your hair.
Dimethicone is often added to a shampoo or conditioner, because the lubricant helps to de-tangle the hair, and replace the effect of any natural oils that may get washed out of the hair. However, Dimethicone can be a problem if you use topical treatments such as trichogen or minoxidil. This is because dimethicone can coat the scalp, and prevent topical treatments from being absorbed into the scalp.
I can use Alpecin as my regular shampoo and not worry about it blocking the absorption of the minoxidil and trichogen products I use daily to treat hair loss – Lipogaine, [easyazon_link cloaking=”default” keywords=”Kirkland Minoxidil” localization=”default” locale=”US” nofollow=”default” new_window=”default” tag=”hotogrhaba-20″]Kirkland Minoxidil[/easyazon_link] and ProFolla AnaStim Ha. This fact, my personal satisfaction with Alpecin as a shampoo that effectively treats hair loss and it’s lower cost is why I thought an Alpecin review was very appropriate for this web site.
If you are a regular user of minoxidil or another topical treatment, and shampoo or condition your hair before applying it, you may really want to give Alpecin a try.
Where to purchase Alpecin?
Alpecin shampoo is readily available online and at some hair salons and local stores, but I purchase this product strictly from [easyazon_link cloaking=”default” keywords=”Alpecin” localization=”default” locale=”US” nofollow=”default” new_window=”default” tag=”hotogrhaba-20″]Amazon[/easyazon_link]. I have had excellent experiences buying Alpecin, and many other products for that matter, from Amazon, and it’s easy to find it in stock. Add the fact that delivery is fast and convenient, and I simply have no reason to purchase it anywhere else.
Conclusion
The first and primary purpose of Alpecin shampoo is to prevent genetic hair loss. Based on my own personal experience and on what others who have written an Alpecin review have to say, it does a very good job of fulfilling this purpose. Alpecin shampoo contains caffeine that helps to strengthen the hair follicles from inside, and can cancel the undesirable effects of DHT. I never thought I would have been onboard with using a caffeine product to battle hair loss, but this goes to show, an open mind to trying all options can be a very good thing!
This shampoo also provides additional benefits, as it makes an ideal solution for dandruff, itchy skin and weakening of hair.
Alpecin is affordable, easy to purchase from [easyazon_link cloaking=”default” keywords=”Alpecin” localization=”default” locale=”US” nofollow=”default” new_window=”default” tag=”hotogrhaba-20″]Amazon[/easyazon_link], and does not interfere with the absorption of minoxidil or trichogen. Also, since shampoo is a product we all use regularly anyway, it costs very little to add Alpecin to any routine for treating hair loss.
Find [easyazon_link cloaking=”default” keywords=”Alpecin” localization=”default” locale=”US” nofollow=”default” new_window=”default” tag=”hotogrhaba-20″]Alpecin on Amazon[/easyazon_link]
[easyazon_cta add_to_cart=”yes” align=”left” asin=”B0027SU56W” cloaking=”default” height=”28″ key=”small-light” localization=”default” locale=”US” nofollow=”default” new_window=”yes” tag=”hotogrhaba-20″ width=”120″]
[…] It is recommended that you apply this product to dry or at least towel dried scalp and hair. Using the dropper style applicator that comes with each purchase of Kirkland Minoxidil, simply apply to the area(s) of your scalp where you want hair to grow. The dropper is even marked with a ML measurement. Let it dry for a little while as you continue to get ready in the morning or for bed at night. The entire process can be done in a minute or 2! You should wait 4 hours before shampooing your hair. Important: Some shampoos coat the scalp and interfere with the absorption of minoxidil, so I use Alpecin Caffeine Shampoo. Just as importantly, this shampoo also reduces hair loss! Since you have to buy shampoo anyway, Alpecin is the perfect choice to use with your minoxidil routine. You can read more about Alpecin in my Alpecin Review. […]
It’s hard to come by knowledgeable people for this subject, but you seem like you know what you’re talking about!
Thanks
Thanks, I’m really glad you found some value in this site! Growing or keeping hair on your head is not magic, and there are products that really do help. Most importantly, having a good handle on where your hair loss is will always be the best way to form expectations.
hi can you please tell the difference between this shampoo and the lipogaine shampoo, i have been using lipogaine shampoo but did not really see a differene
The two products provide different types of benefits and treat hair loss in different ways. Alpecin caffeine shampoo treats hair loss through a caffeine enhanced formula, while Lipogaine shampoo is a DHT blocker that provides nutrients and includes Saw Palmetto, Biotin and Niacin. They approach the same problem but in totally different ways. I use the Lipogaine topical solution, but I try to round it out with several affordable treatments in one routine. Alpecin shampoo is significantly lower in price than the Lipogaine shampoo, but if you can afford to include the Lipogiane shampoo, perhaps rotating it with the Alpecin shampoo would be worth experimenting with!
I ordered one when purchasing minoxidil as it was on the cheap at the time. However I’m extremely sceptical cos there are no published scientific papers
Can you use conditioner after using alpecin
Hi Claire. You can because the caffeine will have already been absorbed. However, if you plan to apply any other topical treatment, I would not, because conditioners can coat the scalp, and make it more difficult for the topical solution such as minoxidil to be absorbed. Hope this helps, and thanks for visiting!
So does that mean you would advise not to use conditioner?
Sam, I would only not use conditioner in situations where I plan to apply minoxidil shortly after the shampoo. Most conditioners do coat the scalp and can decrease the amount of minoxidil absorbed. Would it make a noticeable difference? I can’t say for sure!
I can say though that growing and keeping my hair is the main concern so honestly conditioner has not been my main priority. If you want to keep that shine and hydrated look, maybe use conditioner a few times a week – I can’t see it being a deal breaker!
Hello,
Thanks for sharing the knowledge.
Alpecin has SLS, which many on the internet have claimed causes more harm than good to the hair. What’s your take on it?
Wouldnt it be better if one use Pura d’or argan organic oil (expensive 🙁 )?
I just want to make sure i go on the right track.
Thanks again for helping out the world.
Hi Nole,
That’s a great question – as you probably know, many sites today promote SLS-free products. To my understanding, the main reason you’d avoid a shampoo containing SLS (MANY shampoos have SLS) would be if you are hypersensitive to it, which I would assume is rare. SLS is added to shampoo to create a lot of bubbles and lather. There were rumors in the ’90s that the small amounts of SLS in shampoos could cause medical problems such as cancer, but that turned out to be false. I mean, who am I to say what would happen if a person drank the shampoo, but I think that would indicate other problems :)!
I am very glad you asked this question, because it got me mining the internet for whatever I could find on the topic (I am inquisitive almost to a fault; can’t help it!), and from what I understand, there’s an awful lot of alternative, high priced shampoos now trying to use the “SLS” scare tactic to persuade people to go with their product.
I have no experience with Pura d’or argan organic oil (and most likely won’t if it’s overpriced), but if I get any information on it I’ll pass it on!
Thank for visiting the site and I hope this answer gave you some insight on the whole SLS thing!
The alpecin liquid makes far more sense than the shampoo as you’re not washing it away after a few minutes.
The liquid provides similar benefits as the shampoo according to the manufacturer’s information, but naturally they suggest using both as a more intensive prevention effort. The thing is, in this case I am already using minoxidil, topical solution (Profolla AnaStim Ha), and taking finasteride. That’s enough to micromanage without the risk of it becoming a hassle – which is exactly what I want to avoid!
If I was ONLY using Alpecin, well yeah sure by all means, go with the liquid..AND the shampoo!
Bottom line, since I am using the other treatments, it only makes perfect sense to use the shampoo, because I need to shampoo my hair anyway. So this is not adding any extra step to my routine!
I hope that answers your question and thanks so much for visiting the site and taking the time to comment.
Thank you so much for this article! Could I ask if you apply minoxidil before or after the Alpecin?
Hi David. You’re very welcome!
I use Alpecin and Nizoral shampoos (not the same day of course) before minoxidil. Once minoxidil is applied you should not wash your hair for several hours afterwards.
Hi,
Have you tried, or heard of Nioxin shampoo. I’ve heard really good things about it. Also, why the change from your previous url. I remember coming across that website a while back. Thanks 🙂
Hi Rafeal. Yes, I have heard of Nioxin. It is a shampoo that focuses on making the most of the hair you have – it enhances the appearance of hair but does very little to fight hair loss. Don’t get me wrong, I can see no reason not to use it, and have thought about using it myself, but with the other products I currently use with great success there’s no reason to add more to the mix!
Nioxin does have some ingredients that may slightly contribute to inhibiting the conversion of testosterone into DHT, but again, if already using minoxidil, finasteride and Nizoral, there would be no point in adding Nioxin just for its minimal effect on DHT. That being said, if you want to test it out to see if it creates thicker “looking” hair, I say go for it! Nioxin also claims to help keep the scalp environment healthy, and that’s NEVER a bad thing.
The newe URL/Domain name for this site has been something I wanted to change for a while now – I just finally got around to doing it! The previous URL was long, generic and easy to miss a word. I recently had some extra spare time and decided to make the change. “Hair for Keeps” is shorter and much easier to remember. The goal is to start contributing more to this site in the near future and turn it into a reliable source of information on hair loss, products, and some of the advancements in the industry which may mean some great new treatments in near future!
My scalp is itching after I started to use Alpecin. My hair also fall out much more. I do not know whether I am allergic to any of the ingeedients. This shampoo is also not paraben free? Please give me more information thank you.
Hi Elsabe. I have not had myself, or heard much about anyone’s hair falling out more after using Alpecin or any similar shampoo. There is a possibility of a short shedding period with finasteride and minoxidil, which is a sign that those treatments are working. If you really feel this is causing irritation I believe you should stop using it, because irritation will cause more harm than any benefit the shampoo provides. Alpecin is simply a shampoo that helps contribute to your fight against hair loss but I would never rely on it alone to regrow lost hair.
Regarding parabens, they are used in so many common every day products as preservatives and in most cases do not cause any allergic reaction. However, in a small percentage of the general population, parabens may cause skin irritation so you may fall in that category – allergies can be tricky to diagnose!
Hi. I’m wondering about shampoos that has caffeine in it… Since Alpecin is the popular brand that promotes caffeine shampoo that supposedly helps reduce the effects of DHT on hair and thus promotes hair growth, will other brands that has caffeine as well in their shampoos have the same effect? I know there’s this 2 other brands that have shampoo with caffeine in it.
First one is Thicker Fuller Hair Revitalizing Shampoo
– https://www.walgreens.com/store/c/thicker-fuller-hair-revitalizing-shampoo/ID=prod6209323-product
The second one is Sebamed Anti-Hairloss Shampoo
– http://www.sebamed.com.au/anti-hairloss-shampoo-200ml
Since Alpecin is not available in my country and these two are, do you think it will be as effective as Alpecin? Also I want to ask about shampooing twice a day. Is it ok to do that? Because I use hair fiber and hair spray in the day and I want to remove all those at night so that my head is clean with no hair products on it. I don’t think by just washing it with water will clean my hair and scalp right… I dont like leaving those hair products when I’m sleeping.
Danni,
Of the two you listed, I would personally choose Sebamed Anti-Hairloss Shampoo, only because I found fewer negative reviews, and it seems more widely available which is an indication that people are buying it. It also does not seem to contain dimethicone, which can coat the scalp and interfere with any other topical treatments you may use such as Lipogaine.
Shampooing twice a day is not recommended by many industry professionals, simply because it can remove many of your scalps natural oils, but I totally understand where you are coming from! I used Toppik and DermMatch for years before I got my hair to a thicker state. I had to rinse it out every evening to apply topical minoxidil and trichogen. It was not convenient. Many times I would simply stick my head under the sink tap and rub my fingers through my hair and wash it out that way. The way I see it, I would use things like Lipogaine and AnaStim Ha which contain a lot of natural ingredients that should serve a similar purpose as the scalp oils I was washing away. I continued to use Toppik while applying the minox until I felt comfortable with the way my hair looked without it. To be honest, there a days here and there when I am going someplace here I need to look “done up” and I occasionally use the DermMatch to give a thicker appearance to my hair in the front – similar to the way one would use a gel, hairspray or wax. It’s not often, but once in a while.
I hope that helps!
Ok thats funny! The Thicker Fuller Hair brand also has their own topical treatment product… If their shampoo contains an ingredient that might interfere with the absorption of topical treatments, then whats the point? I am still planning to use their shampoo and conditioner though because their brand are far cheaper than Sebamed’s… Like more than 3x cheaper, so I cant really afford Sebamed especially if I have to buy it more than once a month. Plus I want to use their topical treatment product as well, so it only makes sense if I use it together with the shampoo right?
About shampooing, are you saying you don’t shampoo your hair in the evening, despite the hair products you used? So you just wash them off with water? Would that remove the hair products effectively? :/ I think I still need to shampoo twice a day because of the very humid condition in my country and we get sweaty a lot in the day plus having the hair products on your hair makes it worst. It feels like your hair is filthy and just by washing it with water doesn’t make it feel clean enough! So I am thinking of using the Thicker Fuller Hair shampoo in the day leaving it on for 2 minutes or more for the caffeine to be absorbed, and then use an all natural shampoo derived only from plants in the evening, washing it off as quickly as possible. Do you think this way it won’t have much negative impacts on the hair? Compared to using the Thicker Fuller Shampoo twice a day because all-natural shampoo is gentle to the hair and scalp right.. I hope.
Shampooing twice a day should not be a deciding factor to hair loss. I simply rinse out anything in my hair in the evening to apply any other topical treatments and water seems to be fine with a little scrubbing. When I used Toppik however, it took a little extra scrubbing and sometimes I simply shampooed it again. Basically, whatever is most convenient!
can women use this to?
Hi Ashling,
There is nothing in this product that would make it harmful to women. Alpecin shampoo treats hair loss through a caffeine-based active ingredient complex. The product is used by women, and many women have given it great reviews. Alpecin should be just as effective on a woman’s scalp as it is on a man’s!
Thanks for visiting the site and I hope that answers your question,
John – HFK
I seem to be growing very thick black curly hairs inbetween my fine light brown hairs. They also have a different kink in in them. After extensive research, ive come to rule out hormonal issues via blood tests and then confirmed that some of my folicals are colapsing.. hence the weird curly texture. I dont have a hair loss problem, just wondering if this elpecin would agravate or be benificial to the black curls.. im constantly picking them out..
Thanks for your help…
Hi Colette,
It’s difficult to know if Alpecin would provide any benefit to address your particular issue, because you aren’t of sure what’s causing these random follicles to produce the hair with different texture and kink. From what you’ve described, these different hairs could be the result of anything that could cause abnormalities in these follicles. Such things as a genetic disorder (which does not have to mean it’s anything serious), insulin resistance, hormonal/thyroid issues, or copper deficiency(or too much zinc, which I understand can cause copper deficiency) could be considered.
A dermatologist or nutritionist might be the best source of information for this particular issue. As for shampoos, Nizoral might be able to offer some benefit here, because it does address inflammation in the scalp, which can have an impact on the hair follicle.
Best of luck, and if you do discover what causes these follicles to produce the thicker, darker hair please keep us updated!
Thanks,
JB – HFK
Hi I have been using alpercin shampoo more than a year. Recently I have noticed I’m getting bald patches on the back and side of my head. Was wondering if I should stop using the product.
Regards
Silas Moodley
Hi Silas,
I have NEVER heard anything about Alpecin causing this, and certainly anything that could cause hair loss in patches would not have taken a year!
I would strongly recommend you see your doctor and address this. It sounds like a form of Alopecia areata, which is an autoimmune disease that causes hair to fall out in patches as you described. This is treated by addressing the cause, which is often stress, lack of sleep, diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, to name a few.
On the bright side, minoxidil has been known to do wonders for this type of hair loss!
I hope you get this sorted out and behind you, and thanks for sharing and dropping by the site.
JB – HFK
Hey
Thank you sharing this review. It was very insightful. I’ve always had very thick hair but earlier in the year i started realizing that my hair is falling out. I have two older brothers (I’m 35) whose hair stated falling out in their 40’s so i inititally wrote it off to hereditary hair loss (although my twin brother has no signs of hair loss). I decided to go onto Minoxidil and at first it seems to have helped by reducing the hair loss BUT 10 months later, after continuous use, my hair is still falling out. Infact more than ever. And there’s definitely no signs of hair regrowth on the areas where the hair is falling out.
I generally applu my Minoxidil to damp, towel dried hair. Then I apply either hair gel / wax to style my hair. Could this be a contributing factor to the Minoxidil not working. I’m freaking out about it and is willing to try anything right now, so i really hope the Alpecin works as well as the review says.
My doctor has also switched me from the Minoxidil spray to Finpecia tablets as I am not happy with the Minoxidil results.
Are you familiar with Finpecia and if so, whats your thoughts on it?
Shaubn,
Thanks for sharing your experience. What you have described is actually quite common and sounds like aggressive male pattern baldness, largely influenced by your genetics. Your switching to Finpecia now at this early stage of loss should provide you with excellent benefits, but be sure to keep using minoxidil with it as well. You have to be patient though, it does not work overnight and really needs at least 6 months before you evaluate it at all. Finasteride (The drug in Finpecia) can even take up to a year to begin producing results and in some cases it’s taken almost 2 years!
Here’s the important thing to keep in mind – From all the case studies, personal experiences, etc one thing is clear: The BEST results come from combining treatments, particularly Finasteride, minoxidil, and ketoconazole (Nizoral Shampoo). Alpecin is an excellent shampoo to use in between Nizoral (2-3 times a week). I have been doing this and am enjoying excellent results. In fact, I only added finasteride back in to the routine a year ago and am STILL seeing improvement in my frontal hairline! My routine is here if you’re interested.
Good luck and please keep us updated!
JB – HFK
Hi JB
Thank you for reverting back to me so quickly. I used Alpecin shampoo for the first time this morning. The amount of hair that fell out was quite concerning. I presume the Alpecin shampoo will need some time to take effect and i will still shed hair over this period?
Thank you for sharing your routine with me. I will definitely try and follow the same steps. It was interesting however to find out that one is able to combine Minoxidil and Fincepia (Finasteride). This is something I will definitely try. I stopped using Minoxidil about a week ago after going onto the Fincepia tablet, but i will definitely reintroduce Minoxidil to the routine.
Once again, thank you so much for sharing your advice.
Regards
Shaun
Shaun, you are very welcome!
Yes, combining minoxidil and finasteride is considered the most effective way to address thinning and hair loss, provided that it has not progressed too far. They work in such very different ways, that it gives you a more diverse approach. Finasteride blocks the production of DHT internally, while minoxidil is a topical, and believed to improve hair loss because it is a vasodilator (widens of blood vessels) allow better blood flow to the hair follicles, and is also believed to increase the duration of the hair follicle’s growth cycle (the anagen phase).
Any hair falling out in the shower the very first time you use Alpecin would very unlikely be related to the Alepecin. This shampoo is simply meant as a supplement to other treatments for loss and could not prevent hair loss on its own.
Thanks again and touch base any time!
JB – HFK
Hi JB
Your site has become my go to site for hair loss queries. Thank you for sharing your knowledge on the subject.
After about a week and a half of using Alpecin daily, I’m still experiencing the same amount of hair falling out. I guess my question is, is this a normal part of the initial shedding process? And if so, how long before i should see a decrease in the hair falling out?
If there is no “shedding process” and i should have see a decrease by now, should i rather discontinue using it? Its quite substantial amounts of hair falling out daily I’d rather discontinue the daily washing if the shampoo is not working as I feel currently its speeding up the balding process, however i do not want to be in too much of a rush if there is a shedding period that i need to go to. Thus i kind of just want to know how long this “shedding process” lasts.
I also just read your article about Nizoral. Not sure if we have it in that form in South Africa but i’ll inquire as I’m definitely experiencing the “itching scalp sensation” you refer to in your article. I definitely want to look at adding it to my routine.
Thank you again for all the advice
Shaun
Hi Shaun,
First off, sorry for the delay – I was ‘unplugged’ most of the holidays! Thanks so very much for visiting the site and I am happy to hear this info has been useful to you.
I’d like to clarify that Alpecin shampoo, on its own, is really not going to be effective as a hair loss treatment. It’s fantastic as a shampoo to use while treating hair loss with finasteride or minoxidil, and as I have mentioned already, we need to use shampoo anyway! It’s best used as a supplement to stronger treatments because caffeine helps as explained in this article.
As for hair fall, nothing works in a week or two anyway …it takes months to notice any improvement and if your hair is falling out at that rate, it would be either because you have made some dramatic change to your lifestyle (stress), have the beginnings of aggressive male pattern baldness (genetic and unfortunately it varies with regards to how aggressive it is from person to person), or you have been using finasteride and/or minoxidil for at least several months and are now experiencing the shedding stage.
It’s important to understand that hair grows in stages and follicles shrink slowly over a long period of time with regards to hair loss. In this same way, any treatment to address the hair loss also takes quite a while to produce results!
As for Nizoral, yes, I feel it’s a critical component because it addresses the inflammation in the scalp, and that’s very important to allow follicles to become healthier and produce thicker, stronger hair. If not Nizoral, any shampoo with ketoconazole should be fine. Ketoconazole is believed to address the inflammation because of its anti-inflammatory effects against T cells and scalp yeast, which creates the inflammation. Ketoconaozle is also thought to inhibit steroidogenesis and decrease DHT levels in the scalp.
Lipogaine now includes ketoconaozle as well!
Hope this helps, and sorry again for the delay!
JB – HFK
hi i am using Trigain caffine Shampoo as suggested by my dermatologist, but I still have my hair falling and also some of my hair turned grey. Does Alpecin causes the same problem ?? If not, Can i use it as my daily shampoo ?
Hi Navin,
I don’t believe a shampoo such as Trigain caffine Shampoo could cause an increase in thinning or grey hair. I would think that is most likely a coincidence. As for the Alpecin as a daily shampoo, that would be great as a supplement to a hair loss treatment such as minoxidil or finasteride (or both). These shampoos are great supplements to complete an overall solution but only adequate on their own if the hair loss is very slight.
All the best!
JB – HFK
Hi,
thank you very much for the article. I have been using Alpocin shampoo with success but if i use it constantly for 2 weeks i do get a lot of itch on my scalp. however i will use nizoral shampoo on Monday, Wednesday and Friday and the remaining day will use Alpocin just like you. Hopefully the itchy issue will go away.
I have another question about Propecia. I used to be on Propecia for about 6 years with excellent results. I stopped using Propecia for almost 3 and half years as i wanted have kids and i really wanted to illuminate any problems. Now i have one 2 year old kid and expecting one kid later this year, I did descide to go back on Propecia and last Monday i started taking 1.25mg generic 5mg proscar (Finasteride GH 5). after taking 1.25mg every day for the next 6 days, on the 6 days i founded that i cant get an erection (normally never had issue). As you might be aware, a lot of people do talk about the sexual side effects on Finasteroide. The first time i took it i never read people review on the internet and i never felt anything. This time however i felt the side effects within few days of using it. I do not know if it is in my head or if the medicine is doing this. I stopped using it and going to see my doctor and also do a test to determine my DHT level. Do you think the side effects will go away once i continue using it. What about long term side effects?
Please let me know.
Raian, you might try using Nizoral with a few more days in between. Once every three days is enough. If Alpecin continues to cause itch, I’d stop. We’re all built different and react differently to even the most minor things sometimes.
I also took Propecia for quite a while with a break in between going back to using finasteride regularly. I saw significant hair loss when I stopped and am pretty sure I caught it just in time by using minoxidil and a few other products as explained on this site. I am using finasteride again and have not experienced any side effects. Again, we’re all susceptible to different things, and react differently to medications. It’s an individual thing. Research suggests that the majority of men who experienced finasteride side effects noticed that these effects went away if they continued the use of finasteride. That’s not a guarantee, but it’s positive. In the case where they stopped using it, almost all reported that the side effects went away. Many men on public forums have said the same for both situations.
It’s also possible that in some cases of reported side effects, these were people who may have had the side effects anyway. The side effects of finasteride are also side effects of other changes in some men as they age, which is also around the same time many start taking hair loss treatments. If you feel a dramatic change in terms of the sexual side effects you mentioned, you may have to cease using the drug. If you think it’s subtle and are OK with giving it time to see how it goes, only you can decide. You might take some comfort in knowing that studies show that the side effects almost always go away if you stop using the drug. Getting hormone levels checked, especially as we get older, is a good idea. It helps you eliminate other possible causes of symptoms.
Good luck, and if you find that the finasteride side effects go away in the case that you decide to continue using it, please let us know! It’s always helpful to hear how things work out, because there’s always someone else in a similar situation who can benefit from the info!
Thanks,
JB – HFK
Hi
After shampooing is a conditioner required
Hi Malcolm,
Conditioner is not ‘required’ any more than it ever is, with or without using Alpecin. I have heard though, that those with longer hair prefer to use conditioner with Alpecin. That’s because longer hair apparently tends to get a little stiffer when using Alpecin shampoo. In any case, conditioner is a personal preference!
Conditioner addresses the state of existing hair, and typically the more hair you have and the longer it is, the more people are concerned with conditioning and maintaining. Alpecin is formulated to address hair loss, and most people with this concern are often focused mainly on that.
Bottom line, there’s no reason why you can’t be on top of both!
Thanks for dropping by and all the best,
JB – HFK
Hi, thanks for the informative answers. I’ve heard caffeine can cancel out the effects of minoxidil, do you know if this is true? I just bought a bottle of alpecin but am hesitant to use it. Thanks for your advice
Hi James. Thanks for visiting the site!
Honestly, I have never heard anything related to caffeine counteracting the effects of minoxidil. In fact, it doesn’t really make sense because minoxidil is believed to be a vasodilator. This means that it widens blood vessels increasing blood flow to the hair follicles and this stimulates hair growth as the follicle becomes healthier.
It needs to be applied regularly in order to allow the follicles to consistently benefit from the supply of nutrients in the blood. Once it’s absorbed, it really shouldn’t make any difference if caffeine is also absorbed into the scalp as well, especially since they are not applied at the same time. The hair and scalp need to be dry before applying minoxidil.
Caffeine works through a totally different mechanism of action – it basically gets absorbed to support the hair root’s energy. There’s no logical reason why they would counteract each other, and they are taken at different times.
I hope that answers your question!
Thanks,
HFK
There is no way you can assess if anything works while on Finasteride. Because that alone will regrow hair. If you want an honest and accurate review of products you should use those and only those.
Mike,
While I appreciate your comment, I have to disagree strongly. I have used JUST finasteride for years, used JUST other products for years, and used BOTH for several years now! I could talk about this all day, but in a nutshell, finasteride only addresses hair loss by blocking DHT internally and as we know, hair loss is caused by a multitude of factors.
Blocking DHT is only one approach, and finasteride only does this through a single mechanism of action, at the source. There are other ways to approach DHT mitigation both internally and topically.
Then there’s scalp health, follicle stimulation, circulation and blood flow to the hair follicle, addressing inflammation and so very much more! Dealing with hair loss with a variety of approaches can provide much better results than any one alone.
You say that finasteride alone will regrow hair. If only that were the case. It may for some people, at some stages of hair loss, but for many it takes a consolidated effort of much more than just blocking some DHT.
Thanks again for your comment and for visiting the site!
HFK
Is anyone can use or need to consult with a doctor?
Hi Sandy,
Since this is available without needing a prescription, it’s safe to use at your own discretion in most cases. However, if there are any underlying medical conditions that you have or are concerned you may have then it’s a good idea to consult with your doctor before using any products …even if the main active ingredient is something simple such as caffeine.
Thanks for dropping by the site!
HFK
Hi John (JB),
Fantastic job creating a very informative unbiased website. With so many sites about hair loss and different perspectives and views, one can become overwhelmed and confused.
What do you think about these shampoos – some contain caffeine and/or with ketoconazole.
Also, I came across another ingredient which states has higher efficacy than ketoconazole – it’s called piroctone olamine. Is this something you would consider?
The effect of Ketoconazole and Piroctone olamine on hair growth:
https://www.hgspecialist.com/informatie/blog/122.the-effect-of-ketoconazole-and-piroctone-olamine-on-hair-growth
“When compared to the well-known ingredient Ketoconazole, Piroctone Olamine has a similar effect on itch and dandruff and scores better when it comes to hair growth.”
PIROCTONE OLAMINE COMPARED WITH KETOCONAZOLE
http://www.neofollics.com/piroctone-olamine/
1. Regenepure DR shampoo
2. Neofollic Sh shampoo
3. Seba Med Shampoo Anti-Dandruff
4. FOLICURE Control Caspa Shampoo
http://www.folicure.com.mx/familias/control/
In addition, I read that in the ketoconazole experiments they used 2% concentration and not 1% concentration – “which seems to effectively stop shedding and increase hair shaft diameter, but not increase hair density.” and, “the most effective tool would be a 2% ketoconazole shampoo rather than a 1% shampoo.” Furthermore, “in the experiments, the shampoo was applied 2 – 4 times each week and was used for at least six months, and up to 21 months in one study.”
Also, I came across a study using topical finasteride:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4314881/
Thanks.
I look forward to your response.
Hi Paul,
Thanks for visiting and for the referenced content. I’m glad you found the site informative!
The Piroctone olamine study seems to suggest that it has benefits that can exceed ketoconazole, but ketoconazole is far more proven and time tested. The main mechanism of ketoconazole is based on its anti-inflammatory properties and creating a scalp environment that favors hair growth. I would be open to trying a Piroctone olamine product but to be honest I see no reason to switch from Nizoral or Lipogaine since they already work! 2% ketoconazole shampoo may require a doctor’s visit.
I have not used the shampoos listed often enough to give a clear opinion but they definitely all have their place in the market. Read reviews, research and if you feel they have potential, give them a try is my best advice!
As for the study on the topical combination of Minoxidil [5%] + Finasteride [0.1%], it basically comes to the conclusion that it is better for hair growth as compared to Minoxidil (5%) alone. It still is unlikely to produce results that measure up to using finasteride as per usual (generic, Propecia, etc.).
Thanks again for the visit and stay in touch!
JB – HFK
Hello John,
I started using Alpecin yesterday and was really impressed and satisfied with its performance it was like the first thing i felt after rinsing it off my hair was strength in my hair and after the shower when I had some olive oil on it i came to find that i wasnt losing as much hair as i was before using alpecin in fact i dont think i lost any hair at all while applying the olive oil.
but what really concerns me is that I really feel like alpecin has gotten my hair dry and I was wondering to get a conditioner along with it. so my question is what hair conditioner do you recommend along with this alpecin c1 shampoo and is this shampoo alone enough for my hair thinning and weakness problem ?
Hi there. First of all, thanks for visiting, and WOW… so great to hear your results! As for conditioners for hair loss go, I’d certainly give Lipogaine’s Big 5 Hair Conditioner a go! It’s infused with keratin, Argan oil, aloe vera and enriched with vitamins and castor oil. It’s also suitable for both men and women. Other than that, I’d suggest any conditioner that is made with keratin and/or infused with vitamins and antioxidants.
Good luck and please keep us updated!
JB – HFK