Androgenetic Alopecia: An Evidence-Based Treatment Update

May 2014 in “ American Journal of Clinical Dermatology ”

Supenya Varothai, Wilma F. Bergfeld

androgenetic alopecia male pattern baldness female pattern baldness finasteride minoxidil anti-androgen drugs estrogenic drugs hair transplantation low-level light therapy AGA Propecia Rogaine LLLT

TLDR Effective treatments for male pattern baldness include oral finasteride and topical minoxidil, while topical minoxidil is best for female pattern baldness.

This 2014 document provides an evidence-based update on treatments for androgenetic alopecia (AGA), also known as male or female pattern baldness. The most effective medical treatments for male AGA are oral finasteride and topical minoxidil solution, while topical minoxidil solution appears to be the most effective and safe treatment for female AGA. Other treatments, including anti-androgen and estrogenic drugs, have limited evidence to support their efficacy. Surgical treatments, such as hair transplantation, are also discussed. Low-level light therapy is a relatively new technique used in the treatment of AGA, but its efficacy is still being studied.

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