Attention Dermatologists - Cortisone shots in upper/lower eyelashes to prevent hair loss?

Question

My dermatologist injects cortisone shots in my lower/upper eyelids monthly. I was told that I would need a total of three injections to get positive results (stop eyelashes from falling out). I've Googled this procedure and see nothing about this procedure. The injections are quite painful and my eyes bruise terribly. Am I waisting my time?

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

I would need more information to know the cause of your eyelash loss. Cortisone shots really only work in alopecia areata - and don't offer much help in other conditions. And if it is alopecia areata, you may need a few shots or lifetime of shots. If you have alopecia areata of the eyelashes, some of my ophthalmology colleagues will do steroid injections, yes. I have never done this myself for eyelash loss as my first line treatment is generally topical bimatroprost before moving on to systemic agents. Some dermatology colleagues have studied topical tofacitinb.  I would need more information to offer you advice but these are general principles. Please review and discuss with your physician.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

If you are losing eyelashes because of some autoimmune condition, then steroid injections may help you. You have not supplied enough information

Attention Dermatologists - Cortisone shots in upper/lower eyelashes to prevent hair loss?

Answers (2)