Kybella injection caused hair loss in beard?

Question

Hi had one Kybella treatment 6 months ago and I still have bald patches in the treated area. Part of the treated area I don't shave so I'm upset about it. The doctor didn't tell me this could be a possibility. I read that it is a rare side affect and the hair is suppose to grow back in 4-6 months. I'm already past the 6 month mark. Is it possible the doctor did not administer the injections properly causing permanent hair loss?

Don W. Griffin, MD · Answer

I have treated several men and have not seen this problem before. I doubt that the injection technique contributed to your hair loss, it is more likely just a side effect of the tissue reaction to the deoxycholic acid, the active ingredient in Kybella. Hair follicle can go into a quiescent state for a long time and it may take up to a year for them to renter a growth phase. Topical minoxidil and PRP injections into your neck may stimulate hair growth and would be worth pursuing.

Kouros Azar, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear that you have experienced Kybella induced hair loss. While the hair does typically grow back within 6 months, every individual is different. I still think it would prudent for you to schedule an appointment with your cosmetic dermatologist or surgeon to discuss.

Faiyaaz Kalimullah, MD, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  I'm sorry to hear that you are experiencing hair loss after your Kybella treatment.  Unfortunately, this is a rare but known side effect of Kybella injections.  The exact mechanism of hair loss after Kybella is unclear, however I generally try to place my injections a little deeper in male patients to avoid any damage to their hair follicles. Although I have not seen it any of my own patients, the reports of hair loss I have reviewed have all been temporary, with regrowth occuring within 4-6 months.  Since your hair loss has persisted for over 6 months, it may be worthwhile to schedule an appointment with a cosmetic dermatologist to discuss additional treatment options to help your beard hair grow back sooner.  Best of luck!

Sagar Patel, MD · Answer

Hi there,
There have been 4 clinical trials that had patients undergo Kybella injections in a monitored setting. In these trials, females made up 80% of the 1000 patients who were treated with Kybella. Beard hair loss was an observed complication however it was transient. Generally, if noticed early enough treatment options can include steroid injections to the area though there is no proven benefit. Even though it has been 6 months the hair can still regrow. Hair transplantation to the area of loss is also an option. Best of luck.

Dr Patel

Kybella injection caused hair loss in beard?

Answers (4)

Answer: Kybella Alopecia

Answer: Kybella Alopecia

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Kybella injection caused hair loss in beard?

Answers (4)

Answer: Kybella Alopecia

Answer: Kybella Alopecia

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Kybella

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