Does retin-a cause hair loss? I am 50 years old and have a been experiencing hair loss for an undetermined amount of time.

Question

The hair loss is more than likely from a combination of genetics, chronic stress, and history of Depo-Provera/morena IUD and more recently lo- loestrin birth control pill used to treat chronic migraine headaches . I would like to use Retin-A and vitamin C over my entire face neck and chest area to combat fine lines and sunspots, But I am concerned about the potential side effect of hair loss. Any advice?

Amy Y. Paul, DO, FAAD · Answer

Thanks for your question.  You are probably right about your hair loss being multi-factorial, and I'm sorry you are going through that!  I hope you have a great dermatologist helping you sort it out.  As far as retin-a, it should not affect your hair at all.  Once in awhile I'll get an accutane patient that is experiencing some decrease in hair volume while they are on the medication, but that's pretty rare.  I would not be afraid of topical retin-a affecting your hair.  Discuss it with your dermatologist where you live to be sure, but I bet they will recommend trying the retin-a, as it has a lot of skin benefits.  Best of luck!

F. Victor Rueckl, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

Hairloss is caused by many things, but Retin-A is definitely not one of them. It's not a side effect of this, no matter the strength you use. "This answer has been solicited without seeing this patient and cannot be held as true medical advice, but only opinion. Seek in-person treatment with a trained medical professional for appropriate care."

Does retin-a cause hair loss? I am 50 years old and have a been experiencing hair loss for an undetermined amount of time.

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Does retin-a cause hair loss? I am 50 years old and have a been experiencing hair loss for an undetermined amount of time.

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about Retin-A

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