Androgenetic Alopecia in Gender Minority Patients

November 2019 in “ Dermatologic Clinics ”

Dustin H. Marks, Maryanne M. Senna

androgenetic alopecia AGA genetic predisposition comorbid conditions gender affirming hormones scarring hair loss topical minoxidil low-level laser light therapy LLLLT oral finasteride low-dose oral minoxidil Rogaine Propecia laser therapy

From the encyclopedia

Minoxidil →

An essential vasodilator with some anti-androgenic effects

Finasteride →

Frontline, gold standard treatment for combatting androgenic alopecia

Studysummary This study highlights the importance of clinicians understanding the effects of gender-affirming hormones like testosterone, estrogen, and antiandrogens on hair growth, to effectively diagnose and treat androgenetic alopecia in gender minority patients.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

This document discusses androgenetic alopecia (AGA) in gender minority patients, including transmen and transwomen. AGA is a common form of hair loss that can be influenced by genetic predisposition, comorbid conditions, and exposure to gender affirming hormones. The document emphasizes the importance of ruling out scarring hair loss before diagnosing AGA in gender minority patients. The FDA has approved only three medical treatments for AGA, including topical minoxidil, low-level laser light therapy (LLLLT), and oral finasteride. Minoxidil and LLLLT are effective and safe treatments for AGA in gender minority patients and have no known interactions with gender affirming hormones. Low-dose oral minoxidil may represent another effective treatment option for moderate to severe AGA in gender minorities.

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Research cited in this study

52 / 52 results

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