Will Accutane bring back my alopecia?

Question

I had alopecia areata for a few months, about 5-6 years ago. I went to the dermatologist and recieved corticosteriods and my hair grew back fine. This was when I was 17. I am now 23 and about to go on accutane for the first time. I heard that this drug can cause hair thinning. Will it make the alopecia come back again?

Sally Booth, MD · Answer

I am uncertain what brought about your episode of alopecia areata initially.  This autoimmune skin disease is different for each individual but because you have already had one episode you have an increase risk of it occurring again. Alopecia areata is a highly unpredictable and cyclical condition.  A small percentage of patients on Accutane experience short-term hair loss and it is rare that alopecia occurs with patient who take Accutane but it is a possibility that both could happen with you.  Make certain that your current dermatologist (if they are different) knows about your history of alopecia areata and they will probably recommend corticosteroids again if the alopecia areata returns.

Will Accutane bring back my alopecia?

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Will Accutane bring back my alopecia?

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