Nioxin Hair Products

Nioxin shampoo “Systems” (of which there are 6) are each designed to deal with specific types of hair and to address problems associated with everything from normal hair to very thin hair. They combine some of the highest quality botanicals on the market to ensure the best results in hair loss treatment.

This is how Nioxin® sets-up their Systems (of which shampoo is a key product):

• Fine/Thin vs. Normal/coarse hair
• Early stages of thinning vs. Noticeably thinning
• Natural vs. Chemically treated (color, perm, straightened, relaxed)
• Healthy vs. damaged

Additionally, each System has 4 products – Cleanser (shampoo), Scalp Therapy (conditioner), Scalp Treatment (leave-in styling aid and follicle booster), and a Starter Kit that has “sampler sizes” of each.

What factors help me to make my choice of Shampoo?

I need to consider what type of hair that I have. Is my hair thin, normal or coarse? I also need to consider my scalp. Do I have a dry or oily scalp, and are there any specific concerns I have about it?

I also need to think about the overall state of my hair. Is it thinning all over, or are there problem spots. Finally, I need to consider what environmental factors influence the health of my hair and scalp. Do I color treat my hair, or is my scalp frequently exposed to the sun? All of these considerations influence which system is right for me.

What are the different Nioxin systems and what are their uses?

I’ll need to decide on one of six different systems and shampoos to treat my scalp. Each fulfills different needs. In order to select the right one, I’ll have to match the system to my personal situation.

• System 1 – Fine/thin, not chemically treated, in early stages of thinning.  System 1 is for normal, or maybe even thin looking natural hair that is fine in its texture. This system makes the hair more full-bodied and adds a healthy shine to it.
• System 2 - Fine/thin, not chemically treated, with noticeable thinning.  System 2 is the correct choice if my hair is thinning noticeably and is naturally fine. This system also includes a treatment that is left on the scalp for protection.
• System 3 – Fine/thin, chemically treated, in early stages of thinning.  System 3 is designed for normal to thinning hair that is naturally fine, but also receives chemical treatments like hair coloring. It also includes a treatment that is left on to refresh the scalp, and it focuses on adding moisture for treated hair.
• System 4 – Thin/damaged, chemically treated, all stages of thinning.  System 4 is also for chemically treated, naturally fine hair that is thinning noticeably. It, too, protects the scalp and adds moisture that can be lost in chemical treatments.
• System 5 – Medium/coarse, not chemically treated, early stages of thinning.  System 5 is designed for thicker to coarse hair that is normal to slightly thinning. It has a treatment left on to protect the scalp, but also focuses on adding moisture and smooth texture to the hair.
• System 6 – Medium/coarse, not chemically treated, noticeably thinning.  System 6 is also for thicker to coarse hair that has begun to thin noticeably. It provides the same effects as System five, only for thinning hair.

Granted this all can sound a bit confusing and we field dozens of calls daily as to which shampoo should be chosen, but it generally boils down to “early stages of thinning vs. noticeably thinning”.  The best selling System is Nioxin System 2 for normal to thin hair where thinning is obvious – and you need to do something about it.  System 2 (as does all the cleanser/shampoos and Scalp Treatments) help stop thinning but also help hair look and feel thicker.

All I need to do is pick the system that best suits my hair type and how I treat it. It’s an uncomplicated decision that can help me to protect my hair, and prevent further thinning or hair loss.

Follicleanse ME Peppermint Shampoo

Cooling And Stimulating

Products containing menthol very often provide a cooling and stimulating effect. When used in shampoos menthol is beneficial in soothing and treating many scalp conditions.  Peppermint shampoo not only smells and feels great, it has proven benefits for the scalp and hair.

Menthol increases blood flow to the skin with the resulting effect of healthier hair growth when applied to the scalp. Menthol contains anti-irritant properties and often produces a feeling akin to a local anesthetic that aids in the soothing effect of products containing menthol.

Reduces Inflammation And Itching

Many hair products contain menthol specifically to address common scalp and hair conditions such as excessive itching, tightness and dryness; it has also been found to be beneficial in the treatment of scalp psoriasis. The cooling and scalp stimulating effects of menthol make it a popular ingredient in many hair products. Another beneficial aspect of menthol in hair products is the effect it has on reducing excess sebum production that results in less greasy hair.

The use of menthol and peppermint in hair products very often produces an invigorating and refreshing effect on hair and scalp – the refreshing aroma does much to enhance this effect. Peppermint is known to stimulate circulation and the attendant tingling sensations reinforce its cleansing and stimulating properties.  Due to its succes and ability to increase circulation, for some people, peppermint shampoo can be an excellent hair growth shampoo as well.

Cool, Clean And Fresh

The blend of menthol and peppermint is often promoted as creating a cool, clean and fresh feeling to the hair and scalp. Many hair products also claim that the use of menthol and peppermint based potions will improve concentration and revive the senses – providing a wakening and stimulating effect along with their cooling and antiseptic benefits. Using menthol-based products on your hair may also contribute to improving breathing in the case of a blocked or stuffy nose.

When Hair Gets Oil Build Up

While shampoos and other hair products containing peppermint and menthol are suitable for use on any hair, they are especially useful in treating greasy hair as they deal with the excess sebum produced in the hair follicle. Excessive oil along the hair shaft can lead to a build-up of dirt and bacteria, bringing with it the danger of fungal or bacterial infection.

Head Lice

Peppermint and menthol products are useful when dealing with head lice infestation. Head lice are becoming increasingly resistant to chemical products. Often, using an all-natural potion such as peppermint or menthol oil will remove the initial infestation and continued use will prevent a reoccurrence of this common but distressing problem. Regular use of peppermint or menthol oil after shampooing followed by combing the hair through with a nit comb will ensure that head lice do not return.

While Paul Mitchell has met with global success with the entire line, Super Skinny Serum has taken on a life of it’s own – both for men and women.  Most of the women we talk to love the hair sprays, but everyone seems to agree the “serum” is one of the best general-use products they have introduced.

The first positive comments come from the fact you can use it on wet and dry hair.  So, it is helpful getting out of the shower or when on the go (especially with the smaller .85 fl oz bottle).  This makes styling before blow drying or using a flat iron very helpful – it helps detangle (good), improves shine (great), and speeds drying time (great and nearly on-par with Argan Oil – which we have reviewed).

With that said, the most common feedback is that everyone’s hair felt soft (softer) and that they were able to style easier.  This is pretty common with spray-on or leave-in conditioners, but is especially effective if you can use on wet hair.  So, being able to use on wet or dry hair is a big bonus!

The second most common feedback was helping stop the frizz and static electricity.  While we are well into spring, we are still experiencing a few dry, cold days that make frizz and static a problem.  Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum came to the rescue and helped all with smoothing and control.  This is the big test – being able to brush or comb through your hair after getting to work on a cool, low humidity, windy day. Typically this is the worst conditions to test a smoothing serum, but Super Skinny got a “big thumbs up” on this challenge.

On the other side of the spectrum is control during humid days.  As much of the U.S. has experienced, the south has already had it’s share of hot, humid days…perfect for testing Super Skinny Serum.  Again, our “test subjects” reported Super Skinny Serum did a very good job keeping the humidity from flattening hairstyles.  Several folks did supplement their style with Paul Mitchell Freeze and Shine, so the tests weren’t as accurate as we would like; but, over several weeks of testing, everyone agreed the Serum held-up nicely to the the humid weather.

On a couple of side notes, several folks said they liked the shine/shimmer the Super Skinny Serum gave their hair.  Of course everyone has their favorite conditioner or Spray Shine, but this seemed to resonate among most.  Secondly, Super Skinny Serum worked well on long hair, short and curly.  When we all met to discuss our findings, everyone agreed this is probably the most important and positive aspect of the review.  many products we have reviewed seem to work better on one style or another or one length or another.  It was a testament that the control, smoothing, frizz and humidity barriers hold-up to a vast majority of styles.

In conclusion, our staff voted and gave Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum a “9″ out of “10″ – making it one of the highest rated products we have tested.

One of the most overlooked facts when thinking about hair growth is overall health. That is the most important favor you can do for your body. Living healthy, not smoking, not drinking (at least not in excess), exercising regularly to give your body the optimal cellular function it needs and avoiding stress are within your control. Some things are not within your control, like genetic predetermination of certain physical and mental traits. Even though you cannot control your genetic make-up, you may be able to tweak it a little in your favor through some careful maneuvers of your food intake, medical discoveries and innovative alternative treatments.

How to Grow Hair Faster for Men and Women

Increase Your Vitamin B Consumption

A Vitamin B complex containing the B vitamins, such B 3 Niacin, B 6 Pyridoxine, B 9 Folic Acid and B 12 Cyanocobalamine are very involved in the proper function of RBCs and the circulatory system. In addition to aiding in the neuronal transmission of nerve impulses, these B complex vitamins also promote the growth and health of hair. The best way to get B-complex requirement is to supplement your intake with vitamins for hair growth or through proper diet.

By nourishing the hair follicles with all the nutrients that have been gained through the diet and also through synthesis in the body, hair will thrive and grow. Keratin, which forms the layer around each hair shaft, is also being produced abundantly to protect hair. This a protein which will easily be synthesized in the body by eating a proper diet that provides all the necessary amino acids to make all the proteins the body needs. This makes hair grow at the fastest speed possible.

Exercise And  Diet Will Lead To Great Hair Growth

Including all the amino acids and hair growing vitamins, as well as minerals and trace elements in your diet to fulfill at least all the daily minimum requirements, will allow proteins to be synthesized. Exercise will increase the circulatory flow of blood to bring those nutrients to the cells which require a daily supply of all types of amino acids. Scalp massages can be implemented to further increase circulation in the scalp, giving your hair a high luster and fast growth. Vitamin E is also an essential vitamin to which we must pay special attention. It will improve the immune response by its anti-oxidant properties. Free radicals will be dealt with before they can harm cellular function.

Lastly, Let’s Not Forget About Zinc and Zinc PCA

Zinc has a very important role in hair growth. Without it, hair will not grow. It will become brittle, break and fall out. Zinc PCA will keep the scalp from getting too oily and inviting all types of bacterial and fungal infections. Since Zinc is a trace element, only micro-quantities are required to fulfill minimal daily requirements, but these micro-quantities are very important.  In addition to providing enhanced strength physiologically, Zinc (and Zinc PCA) works well to block the formation of DHT.  DHT is well known to men of course if they suffer from male pattern balding.  Why?  Because DHT is the primary, leading cause of this type alopecia.  DHT robs the follicles of blood flow – thus killing them.  It’s possible slow growth may actually be attributable to the on-set of hair loss.  If so, a zinc shampoo like Follicleanse® can help on several levels.

In Summary:

For hair to grow faster, your entire body must be treated with respect and care. Proper diet, vitamin supplements, using natural shampoo, conditioner, and avoiding damage (color treatments, straightening, excess styling products, heat). The result will be beautiful hair that shines and is somewhat elastic when stretched. It is an outward manifestation of your inner health.

• Color – Colors are going to be very important this year. The favored colors are going to be warm tones like dark browns, auburns are warm blonde tones. No florescent pinks please unless you’re going to rave! If you do not want to do one solid color, try going with a solid color all over except with some dramatic and choppy colors around the face. Go dramatic this year to really grab some attention.  If you are going the color route, make sure you use a product like Argan Oil to help protect and enhance and coloring treatments.

• Long – The upcoming styles for long hair are going to include the long and wavy looks. All the celebrities that are keeping it long are going for a natural and carefree image that drives men crazy! If you are going to do this look try doing your part down the middle with some wispy tendrils to either side of your face…all easily done with a good flat iron.  Celebrities that are sporting this look include Jennifer Aniston, Jessica Simpson, Julia Roberts and Kate Hudson.

• Short – Some of the hottest looks are definitely going to be short. You can go many different ways with a short cut, but it seems that the preferred cut will be the pixie with dramatic angles and colors or a vintage bob cut with a modern twist. You can create the modern twist with a bob by making your bangs and layers choppy, asymmetrical and play around with low and highlights.  To add body to shorter hair, look for hair products for short hair that add fullness to give more bounce and manageability.

• Bangs – Bangs are going to get the number one vote for the most popular hairstyles for 2012 because they just make you look sexy and confident. Bangs can work with any type of face shape and have many different ways that you can wear them. Try blunt bangs if you have an angular face and full or wispy bangs if you have a round face. If you have any other face shape, such as oval or square, try to go with dramatic side-swept bangs to bring attention to your cheek bones and smile.

There are many different options for the most popular hairstyles for 2012 and you should think hard about which one you want before you chop all your locks off. Remember there is a special look for everyone this year.

First, a little bit about the Vector system.  The Vector Hair Removal System® permanently removes hair using electrolysis – conducting electricity into the hair shaft and permanently destroying the hair follicle and the papilla – essentially the root of the hair.  The system has been evaluated and approved by the FDA, and provides the consumer an in-home hair removal system equal to most spa and salon treatments.

The Vector comes in an attractive, compact box that contains a set-up guide that begins with explaining how electrolysis works and what you need to know about the chemistry of hair removal.  Included in the box is the Vector Electrolysis Machine, a convenient foot pedal, conductive patches, Galvanic and regular tweezers, and conductive gel to maximize electricity flow.  The box works very well for storage after you have finished your treatment.

As with all electolysis, effectiveness is a function of time, intensity and patience.  The Setup Guide does an excellent job describing the process physiologically so you can set your expectations and understand what needs be done and what is happening during the process.  Simply, electrical current is passed through the skin exiting/entering the hair follicle you select. The electricity’s current is conducted by using a conductive gel.  The electricity destroys the hair shaft – simple enough.

With that said, we have several observations regarding packaging, instructions and set-up:

1. The package design is well laid out and compact.  The information contained in the User Guide/Setup Guide is very useful – especially explaining how and why it works.
2. The machine is simple to use.  Per Vector’s instructions, it took a few tries to get the “intensity” correct.  The higher the intensity, the less time you need to apply the treatment to each follicle.  Their instructions are to turn up the intensity until you find a setting that just begins to tingle the skin.
3. There are appropriate cautions throughout the User Guide.  We recommend you read and study carefully before use.  It is a bit time consuming to read everything (though it is a short, concise guide), but it may save you lots of time later.

Several of our staff used the Vector Hair Removal system on several patches of arm and face hair per instructions.  Soon after electrolysis it was easy to remove the hair and it was evident it had been damaged/destroyed.  The machine’s use is easy, though a bit time consuming because you need to go hair-by-hair.  Our staff reported they felt the best use is for removing hair on the lip and chin (mustache and beard) where there are just a handful of errant hairs that keep reocurring.  It’s also very helpful for problem areas on the arms.

Per Vector’s instructions, you should use a wax or cream to remove hairs first befor applying the electrolysis treatment.  Their rationale is after hairs are temporarily removed (with the wax, gel or cream) they will grow back and be more conductive via moisture and increased mineral content; thus, make the electolysis hair removal process more effective.  Considering we review products weekly, we didn’t have the luxury of waiting, but found the system very effective if you coat the target hair well with the conductive gel.

Overall, we rate the Vector Hair Removal System a 9 out of 10.  For an in-home hair removal system that rivals a spa treatment, you can’t beat it!  It’s a bit time-consuming and requires some patience, but our staff are reporting excellent results with no “grow back” after several weeks from treatment. 

The only concerns brought up in our product review meeting is that you may need to remove the hair first and allow it to grow back before electrolysis.  Some of our staff need instant gratification, and that pushed their patience.  Secondly, to get permanent hair removal, you must “wait out” the hair follicles and their natural growth cycle.  If a papilla is in a resting stage, no hair may be present; however, 2 months from now it may cycle back into a growth stage and the hair appears and requires treatment.  So, you need to go into the electrolysis hair removal process understanding and accepting you may need 2-3 months (an hour per week, maybe) to permanently remove the hairs.

Again, overall, we think the Vector Hair Removal System is a great system, works extremely well, and for an in-home system, is on par with the best most expensive treatments.  Prices range from $225 to $195.  The best price we found was $184.95 at HealthyHairPlus.com.  We recommend a buy!

The higher end products will be very expensive (ingredients aren’t cheap!) and may require a bit of experimentation, but with the right product you could completely stop or reverse the problem if it is caught in time. Premature balding or thinning of your locks is largely genetic so you will want to get a shampoo, conditioner, etc. that is made specifically to block the chemicals in your system (like DHT and Testosterone) from reaching your follicles.

Another ingredient that you will want to look for in 2012 is hair vitamins. A number of nutritional supplements are now available that target hair growth and healthy hair development specifically.  Your follicles need vitamins to stay healthy and be motivated to grow more hair. Look for words and phrases like “root food”, “silk proteins”, “Vitamin Shampoos” and “Nutrition Vitamins” on the label to make sure that you are buying the right shampoo or conditioner. Vitamins strengthen your follicles and stimulate growth.

There are certain chemicals and ingredients that are found in the best hair loss products for 2012. These chemicals are Trichogen and Panthenol and they block reductase enzymes and DHT which are primarily responsible for premature balding and thinning tresses. These are very important to look for in the ingredients list on the back of the bottle or in the information panel where it talks about what this shampoo, conditioner, etc. can do for you.  We recommend Nourish’s DHT Hair Loss Kit…it has their Hair Nutrition Vitamins, Emu Oil topical application, their Trichogen formula Enzy Block, and their very popular DHT blocker Shampoo.

A natural or organic chemical that has been found to stimulate follicles and promote growth is mint and peppermint oils. They have a remarkable ability to cleanse and stimulate your follicles. However, you should never buy these oils and apply them yourself, just look for the high-end hair loss products and mint or peppermint should be included on the list of ingredients.

You do not have to be embarrassed about your premature balding or thinning locks any longer once you start using one of the best products for hair loss on the market. Remember to not be shocked by the sticker price as it will most definitely be more expensive, but think of it as investing in your self-esteem and image instead.

If you are a person that is very health conscious and is concerned about all the harmful and damaging chemicals that are being put into hair products then you probably want to know what the best sulfate-free shampoos for 2012 are. Well, look no further because we have the scoop on what you need to look for when picking out your hair care products.

When you are searching, keep in mind you will want to look for products that specifically say that they do not contain this chemical – Sulfate.  Sulfate is a cleansing agent that they put into cheap laundry detergents, soaps and hair care products that have been shown to cause skin irritations, rashes and severely damage your hair follicles leading to premature thinning or balding.

The easiest way to determine if the product does not have this chemical is to look in the ingredients list. In the ingredients list it will appear as this: “lauryl sulfate” or “sodium laureth sulfate.” This is not something you will want to buy, but be aware that the high-end shampoos (and conditioners) are going to be more expensive than the cheap alternatives…primarily because the ingredients that replace the sulfates are more expensive.

Though there are only several new sulfate-free brands for 2012, our favorite is sFree® Sulfate-Free Hair Products.  From the beginning their focus has been sulfate-free and natural-based formulas.  Their sulfate-free shampoo, sFree® Moisture is our staff’s favorite.  It produces just enough foaming action (rare in sls-free products) and provides just enough moisture – it rinses clean too.  FYI – They also have a sulfate-free clarifying shampoo and conditioner.

However, remember that the more you invest in good hair care products the healthier your hair will be and it will actually be much easier to style.  Sulfate-free shampoos (also known as SLS free) will give more life andbody to your hair like you have never experienced before and will give you natural body and shine to your hair. These products do this because they are not full of the harmful chemicals that actually strip your hair’s natural moisture and bulk.

Another brand that has recently caught our attention is Balance®…small line – they have a shampoo and conditioner, but the products are great.  We reviewed them in September 2011 and all our staff thought they were great.  Their prices are very good, yet they are a boutique manufacturer.  For the effort, Balance® a good sulfate-free brand to consider.

Women with longer hair will get the most benefit of using the sulfate-free formulas because their hair is much harder to maintain and manage. Longer hair needs extra care if it is going to look luscious and well-cared for. The added benefits of the are that they are organic and full of natural cleansers that also have lots of essential vitamins and minerals that your hair needs. They are also safe for color treated hair because you do not have to worry about there being any harsh chemicals that strip the color out.

It is definitely worth the small amount of effort and spending a bit more on the sulfate-free hair products. Think about it this way; if you spend more on your hair care products then you will spend less money on other products to control your split ends, frizz and all the haircuts you will need to trim off the damaged sections of hair.  As an additional note, products with harmful sulfates are thought to trigger what causes scalp psoriasis and dermatitis.  Along with some shampoos and conditioners, mousse, styling aids and coloring agents can incite outbreaks on sensitive scalp tissue.

If your hair becomes damaged it can take quite a while to get it back to its original healthy status. Below are some things you should look for in hair care products for men.

Everything you do in your daily life including your job and diet directly effects your hair. So do what you can to reduce damage by being gently on your scalp. A wet hair breaks more easily than a dry one so when your hair is wet be extra carefully to be gentle with it.

Stay away from blow dryers or any other heating tools, most men do not use them but if you do be careful the high temperatures can fry your hair. If you insist on using a blow dryer be smart and use it at its coolest setting i will take longer to dry your hair, but it will do minimal damage.

If you feel you need to use high heat use a thermal protector to seal and protect the hair from the heat. If you have dry hair take a cooler shower this will help you avoid washing away to much sebum (scalp oil). If you have very oily hair take the hottest shower you can stand this will help break up any oily build up and cleanse your scalp more thoroughly.

Say no to chemicals. Using chemical treatments can literally strip your hair and cause it too be brittle and break. If you do choose to use a chemical treatment then make sure you follow it with a deep conditioner to put some of the moisture back into your hair that was leeched out.

Natural is the way to go so look for naturally based shampoo that will help make and keep hair healthy. You should see a difference after the first week of washings. Believe it or not every thing you do including healthy, diet and lifestyle choices reflect on your hair.

If you eat plenty of fruits and vegetables drink a lot of water and exercise daily your hair will be more healthy. Stress greatly effects your hairs healthy so try to sleep at least 7 hours a night and try to relax stress is terrible for your hair. There is an old saying that if you wear a hat every day your hair will fall out, this is not true at all.

One part of keeping your hair healthy hair regular trimmings. We do not mean a full blown hair cut just get your hair cleaned up. This will remove dead ends and help keep your hair stronger. If you suffer from dry hair try a using conditioner, many men do not use any at all.

Look for hair care products that will compliment you and your hair type. Make sure to stick to naturally based products for the best results. Men want products that work, so it may take a little of trial and error to get ones that work well for you and your specific hair type.

Loss of vitamins and minerals, have you been maintaining a healthy diet. Medications, what medications are you on and do any of them cause hair loss. Surgery, have you undergone any surgeries in the last 90 days. Hormones, are your hormone levels regulations, over production of some hormones can effect hair loss in women.

Some other things to consider, are you a vegan? Vegans usually don’t get enough iron or protein even though they take supplements to help with it, it still can lead to hair loss. Over eating can cause itchy scalp due to the over production of oils. It can also cause hair loss due to very high salt saturation levels.

Fungal infections can cause your scalp to itch and become swollen while leading to hair shed because of the scalp irritation. You can lower your risks of this by eating wholesome foods these will contain plenty of vitamins and minerals to help with hair growth. Cut out anything that is made of or contains white sugar, this will stop or slow a fungal infections plus it is good for your body.

Massage emu oil on your scalp daily to help with the itchy, inflammation, flakes and hair loss. You should see you hair start to get more healthy in just a few weeks. Remember that it is normal to lose about 75 hairs a day so don’t be alarmed if you still see some hair fall this is normal.

Another common reason for itchy scalp hair loss in women is seborrheic dermatitis. It happens when the body over produces oil and skin cells which lead to flaky itchy scalp. It can damage the hair follicle and in the long run lead to thinning hair. Fungus is also a very common method of itchy scalp.

Most women get fungal infections from their local salons, some salons do not clean their tools properly which harbors fungus which can lead to a fungal infection on the next person. Fungal infections usually start with a swollen itchy scalp, then they lead to thick yellow flakes and eventually hair loss if not treated.  As a note, often time fungal infections can be caused by oily hair.  Look for the best shampoo for oily hair to reduce the excess sebaceous gland secretions that tend to clog follicles and pores on the scalp.

Ring worms lead to itchy scalp if they case is severe enough hair loss will follow, but these are the most extreme cases. Here are some things you can do to keep your scalp healthy which in turn will hopefully keep you from developing any of these problems. Do not get your scalp sun burnt, it will damage the scalp and hair, while causing your scalp to overproduce oils leading to oily scalp.

Here are some herbs that help ease itchy scalp, so if you find any of these in a shampoo they can be worth a try. Some natural ingredients that ease the scalp are ginger, lemon, lavender, emu oil, chamomile, Jojoba oil, coconut oil, peppermint, rosemary and apple cider.

So in closing if you eat healthy and stay away from fried foods, and control the oils on your scalp this should help you fight itchy scalp which often can lead to hair loss in women.