Hair loss affects both men and women, and can seriously impact self-confidence. From medications like Rogaine to hair transplants, treatments abound but results vary.
In this comprehensive review, we analyze ScalpMED‘s line of hair regrowth products to see if they live up to claims and provide real value compared to alternatives.
Understanding Hair Loss
Before assessing ScalpMED specifically, it helps to understand what causes hair loss and review common treatment approaches.
The most common cause of hair loss is androgenetic alopecia, or pattern baldness. This is driven by dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a byproduct of testosterone. DHT binds to receptors in scalp follicles, causing them to shrink and lose function over time.
Stress, illness and medications can also trigger excessive shedding and thinning. As follicles weaken and die off, hair regrowth becomes impossible without intervention.
Typical treatment options include:
Medications: Minoxidil and finasteride aim to oppose DHT and spur regrowth. These can slow hair loss but results vary widely.
Hair transplants: Surgery to move DHT-resistant follicles to balding areas. Very expensive at $4,000+ and carries risks.
Laser devices: Low-level light therapy meant to rejuvenate follicles, though supporting evidence is weak.
Alternative treatments: Special shampoos, supplements and other products making regrowth claims have limited clinical backing. Consumer skepticism is warranted.
As we‘ll explore, ScalpMED aims to balance safety, efficacy and value relative to these other approaches.
Overview of ScalpMED
ScalpMED is made by Modern Health Labs, founded in 2013. The company sells directly to consumers online, focusing specifically on hair regrowth.
Backed by a Medical Advisory Board, ScalpMED uses a patented approach combining three key ingredients:
- NutriSol®: Botanical blend meant to improve scalp health
- Vitadil®: Vasodilator to open blood vessels and encourage circulation
- Minoxidil: The only FDA-approved ingredient for regrowing hair
By improving blood flow and oxygen delivery to hair follicles, ScalpMED claims to create an optimal environment for reversing miniaturization and damage from DHT.
The company offers separate men’s and women’s hair loss products, a hair thickening kit, supplements and more. We‘ll analyze specific formulations later in this review.
Importantly, ScalpMED products do not help with complete baldness or receding hairlines. They aim to improve thinning by addressing active follicles still vulnerable to DHT.
Now let‘s scrutinize the evidence behind ScalpMED‘s hair regrowth claims.
Assessing the Science Behind ScalpMED
ScalpMED‘s formulations are centered around three key ingredients backed by varying degrees of scientific evidence:
Minoxidil
Minoxidil is the only FDA-approved medicinal ingredient for regrowing hair. Initially developed as a blood pressure medication, researchers discovered it had the side effect of increasing hair growth.
While not fully understood, it likely works by enlarging hair follicles and extending their growth phase.
Clinical trials demonstrate that approximately 40% of men and women using minoxidil for hair loss experience significant regrowth after 3-6 months of consistent use.
However, it requires ongoing application as it does not address the hormonal causes of pattern baldness. Hair loss resumes within months if treatment stops.
Still, minoxidil remains widely recommended by dermatologists. When formulated at strength with chemical penetration enhancers, it can be reasonably effective for stimulating weakened follicles.
NutriSol® Blend
ScalpMED‘s NutriSol complex contains several botanical extracts and vitamins meant to nourish hair follicles:
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Biotin: Essential for producing keratin protein needed for hair growth. There is some clinical evidence biotin supplements can help hair regrow faster and reduce shedding.
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Bamboo silicon: Source of silica, used to strengthen brittle strands and aid keratin development. However, there are no studies demonstrating a benefit for alopecia.
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Arnica montana: Soothes inflammation but no proof it grows new hair when applied topically. Oral forms seem more promising.
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Zinc: Can speed up recovery of hair shedding related to zinc deficiency. But benefits questionable otherwise.
While some ingredients show ancillary potential, there is no strong clinical evidence NutriSol alone helps regenerate DHT-damaged follicles or boosts minoxidil efficacy beyond proper scalp health.
Vitadil®-5A Complex
The Vitadil-5A blend contains edelweiss stem cells, apigenin and oleanolic acid targeted at promoting scalp circulation:
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Edelweiss stem cells: Some research indicates they may help delay aging effects in skin and hair. But clinical studies are still in early stages. No definitive benefit proven as yet.
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Apigenin: Bioflavonoid compound with anti-inflammatory effects on skin according to some studies. Potential to improve scalp health.
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Oleanolic acid: Found in olive leaves and suggested to aid skin cell regeneration, but lacks definitive clinical evidence around hair growth applications.
In theory, Vitadil‘s ingredients could enhance the scalp environment to help follicle stimulation efforts. However, robust clinical proof is lacking on the blend’s efficacy for either purpose.
Analysis of Key ScalpMED Products
With the key ingredient science reviewed, let‘s analyze ScalpMED‘s primary hair loss products and the purported benefits they offer users.
ScalpMED for Men
This treatment contains 3% Minoxidil along with patented NutriSol and Vitadil complexes. The formula aims to combat thinning hair and male pattern baldness.
Applying just 2 sprays twice daily, it claims over 96% success in supporting regrowth based on observed results across users.
The high-strength formulation takes advantage of minoxidil‘s clinical hair regrowth potential combined with Vitadil‘s intended vasodilation effects to maximize absorption. NutriSol ingredients provide complementary nourishment.
Considering that properly formulated minoxidil enables 40%+ response rates in studies, a 96% self-reported success rate seems questionable. However, customers do report solid improvements after 3-6 months provided consistent use.
Compared to drugstore minoxidil, the proprietary additions could provide some incremental benefit. But for the premium price, magnitude seems uncertain sans controlled studies.
See ScalpMED for Men pricing and reviews.
ScalpMED for Women
The women‘s regrowth formula contains a lower 2% minoxidil concentration plus the NutriSol and Vitadil complexes. The percentage reduction aims to minimize unwanted facial hair growth, a known side effect.
Besides the adjusted minoxidil level, the regimen works the same way – applying solution directly along the scalp line using the trademarked spraying device.
As with the men‘s variety, almost all ingredients remain identical. ScalpMED does claim nearly equivalent 95% efficacy among female users based on feedback. If accurate, the reduced dosage seemingly retains benefits while mitigating risks.
Ultimately, whether the women‘s formulization justifies the steeper costs depends on individual response compared to over-the-counter options. Tracking progress monthly provides the best indicator of value.
See ScalpMED for Women pricing and reviews.
Review of Other ScalpMED Products
Beyond the flagship hair regrowth kits, ScalpMED sells a variety of supporting products:
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Thickening Shampoos: Contain amino acids and proteins to strengthen follicles and minimize shedding according to the company. Little hard evidence substantiates that these ingredients reverse miniaturization however.
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Scalp Detoxifiers: Utilize charcoal, witch hazel and salicylic acid to dissolve oil and buildup. While not revolutionary, maintaining scalp health supports any regrowth regimen.
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Hair Wellness Supplement: A multivitamin combining biotin, zinc, vitamin C plus herbal extracts like saw palmetto. Only useful for those with nutritional deficiencies otherwise. Saw palmetto appears effective for limiting DHT production, potentially slowing loss. But no definitive help regrowing new strands.
These auxiliary solutions mainly provide scalp health maintenance adjunctive to the core minoxidil-based systems. While not revolutionary, consumers exiting the brand might still benefit from continuing supportive therapies.
ScalpMED Reviews: Success Rates in Practice
With clinical evidence on proprietary formulations being minimal, real-world consumer perspectives provide the best insight on efficacy.
Analyzing verified reviews across retail sites, common themes around ScalpMED products emerge:
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Positive effects kick in around month 3-4 assuming diligent application. Earlier than minoxidil alone. Speed likely attributable to added circulation-enhancing properties.
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Success tied closely to compliance over 4-6 month period. Even short lapses seem to hinder results per user reports.
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Pre-existing conditions affect outcomes. Those with severe DHT sensitivity, extensive slick balding or nutritional deficiencies note less dramatic regrowth.
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Women appear to respond better on the whole according to posted reviews. Reduced minoxidil levels potentially cut side effects.
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Substantial yet not miracle regrowth capability. Most cite notable but incremental thickening over several months. Manufacturer “96% success” stats seem inflated. Complete baldness reversal unsupported based on consumer commentary.
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Adding shampoos and vitamins amplifies benefits marginally according to many reviewers. These function more as maintenence tools.
For both men and women struggling with mild to moderate thinning, ScalpMED users generally confirm the products deliver tangible improvement superior to over-the-counter counterparts given 3+ months application.
Side Effects and Safety Considerations
ScalpMED‘s formulas utilize topical applications at clinical strengths known to cause some side effects. Similar to minoxidil risks, potential issues include:
- Itching, flaking or irritation of the scalp
- Headaches
- Unwanted facial or body hair growth
- Allergic reaction in sensitive individuals
To minimize chances of experiencing these, carefully follow usage instructions and perform a patch test before starting full treatment.
Discontinue use if any concerning symptoms manifest and promptly consult your physician. Do not use ScalpMED solutions if you have no family history of pattern baldness or are undergoing chemotherapy.
For most users who tolerate minoxidil well already, ScalpMED poses low added risk. Still, best to exercise caution with any intensive topical.
Cost Analysis: Is ScalpMED Worth the Investment?
ScalpMED sells its hair regrowth kits exclusively through the company’s website. This allows them to control pricing and frequently offer limited-time sitewide discounts.
Price-wise, ScalpMED costs notably more than generic minoxidil treatments available in stores due to its proprietary formulations. However you gain access to significantly higher strength mixes not available over the counter.
Here is how its pricing shakes out:
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ScalpMED Max Strength Hair Regrowth Kit for Men or Women
- 2 month supply: $120
- 4 month supply: $210
- 6 month supply: $295 (Best value)
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Generic 5% Minoxidil Foam/Solution
- 1 month supply: $50
These options suggest ScalpMED runs 2-3x the cost of pharmacy minoxidil.
Yet for shoppers looking purely at value, its formulas deliver measurable results faster than minoxidil alone based on collective consumer feedback.
Assuming the average user experiences at least some visible improvement after 90 days consistent application, price per positive outcome is quite reasonable considering most reputable hair transplant surgeons charge a minimum of $4000 – with no guarantees.
For sufferers not seeing satisfactory gains from over-the-counter products, ScalpMED garners consideration. Just ensure to purchase the 4+ month supply to allow enough trial time.
Always check the site for active promotions as well – 15% off coupons are common.
FAQs – Common ScalpMED Questions
Does ScalpMED really work?
For most men and women struggling with genetic pattern baldness, consistent use of ScalpMED over 4+ months generates visibly fuller, thicker hair assuming realistic expectations. Results continue improving but require ongoing application.
When will I see results using ScalpMED?
Compared to regular minoxidil, initial changes emerge around 3 months – quicker than the typical 4-6 months averages. But noticeable differences take 4-5 months assuming daily, continual usage without lapses. Existing hair sheds before thicker regrowth occurs.
Can ScalpMED help women?
Yes. ScalpMED‘s women‘s formulation delivers similar efficacy to the men‘s products based on user reviews. Lower minoxidil concentration appears equally effective while minimizing facial/body hair growth side effects.
What about hairline regrowth?
ScalpMED does not claim to restore recession along the frontal hair line or rebuild completely bald areas. The products aim strictly to thicken and revive miniaturized follicles still vulnerable to DHT. Those with no family history of progressive pattern balding tend not to see results.
How long do I need to use ScalpMED?
Like minoxidil, positive effects begin reversing 3-4 months after stopping consistent application. Users wishing to maintain growth must commit to ongoing daily usage long-term.
Is there a money-back guarantee?
Yes, ScalpMED offers customers 120 days to evaluate products after purchase. If unsatisfied with results, remaining supplies can be returned for a full refund minus any initial shipping fees. Just contact support to begin the process.
The Final Take: Who Should Buy ScalpMED?
In closing this review, would we recommend ScalpMED for individuals noticing thinning hair or bald spots?
For most men and women facing pattern hair loss, ScalpMED justifies moderate costs through powerful minoxidil-based formulations offering real improvement over a dedicated 4 month trial based on ample consumer verification.
Compared to Rogaine, ScalpMED’s added proprietary ingredients appear to accelerate and amplify regrowth for willing participants. Just maintain realistic expectations – miracle cures remain elusive.
However those experiencing extensive slick baldness, assuming a healthy scalp, likely need explore hair transplant options after norwood stage 3-4 to restore meaningful coverage. ScalpMED cannot revive completely dormant follicles.
Where no family history exists or chemotherapy related shedding is the trigger, seek medical guidance first.
Reality is hair regrowth science remains imperfect. Yet for people retaining adequate follicles, ScalpMED’s solutions empower one to fight back against progressive thinning using an FDA-backed compound.
Just ensure adhering to the lengthy initial treatment period. Taking months to observe full effects demands patience but commonly pays dividends according users.
With diligence and realistic outlook, the brand’s formulations could help write a new chapter in your hair loss journey.
