Can tretinoin cream speed up male pattern baldness if I use it on my face?

Question

Hi. PI have male pattern baldness I’m 26 and I’m a Norwood 5. I’m currently on finasteride. I went to the dermatologist last week for skin issues and she prescribed me tretinoin cream for my face. Can Can tretinoin cream speed up male pattern baldness if I use it on my face? I’ve read that retinol can do that. Why do oral retinols cause hair loss and topicals don’t? Please answer all my questions. Thank you very much.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Tretinoin, also known as Retin-A, is a topical medication primarily used to treat acne and reduce signs of aging on the skin. There is currently no scientific evidence to suggest that using tretinoin on your face would speed up male pattern baldness.
Male pattern baldness, or androgenetic alopecia, is primarily caused by genetic factors and hormones (specifically, dihydrotestosterone or DHT). Tretinoin is not known to interact with these factors or increase the rate of hair loss.
However, it's important to use tretinoin as directed by your healthcare provider, as misuse can lead to side effects such as skin irritation and increased sensitivity to sunlight. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about potential side effects or interactions with other medications or conditions.

Can tretinoin cream speed up male pattern baldness if I use it on my face?

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Can tretinoin cream speed up male pattern baldness if I use it on my face?

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Everything you need to know about Retin-A

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