There’s a seemingly endless list of medications, supplements, and products claiming to slow hair loss or aid in hair growth. While many of these have little scientific support, there is growing evidence that tretinoin (a type of synthetic retinol) may be a promising treatment for several types of hair loss.
Tretinoin is a prescription retinoid medication used to treat skin issues. Retinoids – which are stronger than naturally derived retinols – stimulate the growth of skin cells… reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, lightening age spots, and decreasing the frequency and severity of acne outbreaks.
Can Tretinoin Help With Hair Loss?
Early research indicates that tretinoin may also be helpful for some types of hair loss. Including the most common form, androgenic alopecia – frequently referred to as male (or female) pattern baldness. It has also shown some success in treating alopecia areata and telogen effluvium. When treating hair loss, tretinoin is typically used in conjunction with minoxidil.
At this time, topical tretinoin is FDA approved for skincare use only and its application for hair loss is strictly off-label. Tretinoin is by prescription only and, for hair loss treatment, it should be compounded with Minoxidil by your pharmacist.
Does Tretinoin Increase Minoxidil Effectiveness?
The previously referenced study indicates that tretinoin significantly increases minoxidil’s effectiveness, even in some participants for whom minoxidil did not work previously. In another study, tretinoin improved Minoxidil’s adherence to and absorption by the scalp, and allowed participants to apply Minoxidil only once a day as opposed to twice (with similar or better results).
While more research is needed, these results are promising. At the very least, tretinoin users could benefit from the convenience of once-daily – as opposed to twice-daily – Minoxidil application.
Does Tretinoin Cause Hair Thinning?
There is no evidence that topically applied tretinoin causes hair thinning, but hair loss may be a side effect of taking tretinoin orally. Tretinoin is a derivative of vitamin A and over-consumption of vitamin A in food, supplements, or medication can trigger hair loss on the scalp, face, or elsewhere on the body.
How Often Can I Use Tretinoin?
Only use tretinoin as prescribed and directed by your physician. Typically, it is applied once a day, in conjunction with Minoxidil treatments. Applying tretinoin more frequently will not increase its efficacy and it may cause scalp irritation.
RHRLI Finds the Best Treatment for Your Hair Loss
At RHRLI, we will perform a thorough examination to determine the cause of your hair loss and to find the best treatment or combination of treatments to meet your hair restoration goals. We offer both surgical and non-surgical options, as well as lifestyle advice to optimize your existing hair and to keep your hair strong and healthy during and after treatment. We specialize in hair replacement with the ARTAS® Robotic FUE Hair Restoration System, a minimally invasive procedure that provides natural looking results with little downtime. Contact us today for a free consultation and to begin your journey to a fuller head of hair.