Is Tretinoin topical used for hair loss?

Question

i am male who is suffering hair loss, i am taking several medication for it. but i read in some clinic website that Tretinoin cream is used for hair loss? this the first time i heard of this medicine, does it really work? and if it really work can i use it with minoxidil? and do i need description for it?

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

Tretinoin may help some types of hair loss but not most. Tretinoin added to minoxidil can increase the potency of minoxidil for males using minoxidil for androgenetic alopecia. I have included reference to a well known study below. Tretinoin can cause irritation and rarely trigger a telogen effluvium when applied topically.  Prescriptions are needed and this should only be used if under care of a specialist. It is important for you to be aware this is not a common treatment and for you to be aware it has a low likelihood of helping.Reference Efficacy of 5% minoxidil versus combined 5% minoxidil and 0.01% tretinoin for male pattern hair loss: a randomized, double-blind, comparative clinical trial.
Randomized controlled trial. Shin HS, et al. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2007.

Jay Goldstein, MD · Answer

“Formula 82M” is a customized compounded prescription solution that contains the FDA-approved hair growth medication Minoxidil plus Tretinoin, Retinoic Acid for enhanced penetration and a sophisticated blend of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-androgen and other ingredients in a non-irritating propylene glycol-free base. It is only available from compounding pharmacies and does require a doctor's prescription.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

Tretinoin is medication used for the treatment of acne and acute promyelocytic leukemia. I will do nothing to address hair loss

Is Tretinoin topical used for hair loss?

Answers (3)

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