Can cetirizine help with hairloss?

Question

Hello hair loss experts. I recently read online that allergy medication such as cetirizine can help with androgenetic alopecia. Is there any truth to that? Also can it help in immune related hairloss like alopecia areata? For both types of hair loss mentioned above, what type of dosage is needed and does it need to be taken indefinitely? Thank you

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Cetirizine is an antihistamine primarily used to help relieve allergy symptoms. While it's not typically used as a treatment for hair loss, some research has suggested that it may have some benefits for hair growth due to its potential anti-inflammatory effects and its ability to block certain immune responses that can contribute to hair loss.However, it's important to note that these studies are still preliminary and the evidence is not strong enough to recommend cetirizine as a standard treatment for hair loss.If you are experiencing hair loss, it's recommended that you consult with a dermatologist or a specialist in hair loss (trichologist). They can provide a thorough evaluation and recommend appropriate treatments based on the cause of your hair loss. This could include topical treatments like minoxidil, oral medications like finasteride, or procedures like hair transplant surgery, depending on the severity and cause of the hair loss.

Matt Tahsini, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Cetirizine is typically not used to grow hair as it is an antihistamine. If you have hair loss, I suggest you start with your primary physician, have some bloodwork done, and plan your path forward from there.  Best of luck to you.

Dr. T

Can cetirizine help with hairloss?

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Can cetirizine help with hairloss?

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Everything you need to know about Hair Loss Treatment

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.