I recently found the next used snake oil salesman that I would love for you to comment on (or just put into place). The story goes, Balding guy stumbled upon a website (http://www.physicianshairgrowth.com). The jerks there toy with his emotions with a new product that combines propecia and minoxidil in a topical solution which they claim:

“After many months of research and 6 months of a triple blind study we are proud to announce the availability of Promox. Promox which proves to be 75% effective on both the frontal and vertex areas within a six month period.

At present there are only two products approved by the FDA for hair growth. Promox combines these two in a topical product that blocks 80 to 90% of DHT with minimal side effects.

The results of our study are very positive and confirm the hypothesis that the topical solution of minoxidil and finasteride is more effective than either one alone.”

Will you please respond and let me know if this is just more snake oil, or should I break out the visa?

Your inferences are correct. First of all, it is wrong of them to suggest that any finasteride spray is proven effective by the FDA. There is no such proof available and certainly no FDA clearance of tests on either the spray by itself or the combination of the two medications (finasteride and minoxidil). Secondly, the site for this Promox product says that it “Contains: Minoxidil 5%, Azelaic Acid 1.5%, Progesterone 0.25%, Tretinoin 0.025%, Finasteride 0.1%” — and if the product indeed has progesterone, it may be absorbed by the body. Safety would be an issue, let alone violations of FDA approved language and claims.

For those keeping score, this product is formulated by the same physician that sells Re-Mox (which is his blend of minoxidil and tretinoin). Let the buyer beware!

Paid advertisements (not an endorsement):