I’ve been using squaric acid to treat my alopecia. Is it too much of a reaction? (photo)

Question

I’ve been using squaric acid to treat my alopecia and My dermatologist is away. My scalp is very red and itchy and bumps are forming . Is it too much of a reaction ? I don’t see fluid filled blisters but there are raised bumps . Thanks a lot

Robert Nettles, MD · Answer

To prevent any harmful side effects, I would recommend stopping the squaric acid and to speak with a hair regrowth specialist who will perform lab tests to determine the underlying cause of your thinning.Any medicine that actually can make changes inside your body, are  required under the FDA to be available by prescription only. This therefore means that it is not possible for anything that does not  require a prescription to cure or prevent hair loss or regrow thinning hair. Thus, a personalized medicine will be the best choice because instead of a "one size fits all" approach, you will be taking something which is truly catered to your body's needs.

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

You’ll want to speak to the office and send in better quality photos. With squaric acid, we want their to be some itching and some rash as that is the whole purpose of the treatment. If the reaction is too severe, the dose should be lowered and the rash possibly treated with topical or oral steroids depending on the severity. You should contact your dermatologist as soon as possible as your question can not be properly answered via this forum. Your dermatologist will have a plan in place for what to do in situations like this.

Arbella Sarkis, MD · Answer

I recommend you consider stopping your treatment and get in to see the covering physician.
Wishing you a good outcome.
Warmly,
Arbella Sarkis, MD

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

It looks like you have a reactive dermatitis. You might consider stopping the medication or better yet, find out which doctor is covering your vacationing doctor and see that doctor

I’ve been using squaric acid to treat my alopecia. Is it too much of a reaction? (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Dermatitis

Answer: Dermatitis

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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.

I’ve been using squaric acid to treat my alopecia. Is it too much of a reaction? (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Dermatitis

Answer: Dermatitis

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Recommended reading

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.