Allergic Contact Dermatitis to Topical Minoxidil Solution: Etiology and Treatment

    Edward Friedman, Paul A. Friedman, David Cohen, Ken Washenik
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    TLDR Minoxidil can cause skin allergy; use alternative solvents or treatments if allergic.
    The article discusses allergic contact dermatitis caused by topical minoxidil solution, a treatment for hair loss. Propylene glycol, a solvent used in the preparation of minoxidil, is the most common allergen causing contact dermatitis. Patients who are allergic to propylene glycol can be given alternative solvents such as butylene glycol, glycerin, and polysorbate. However, patients who are allergic to minoxidil are no longer candidates for the topical treatment of their alopecia with minoxidil. Systemic androgen modulators provide an alternate treatment option for some of these patients.
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