Common Contact Allergens Implicated in Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia Found in Over-the-Counter Hair Growth Serums and Solutions

    Blayne Fenner, Kritin K. Verma, Meredith Pham, Michelle Tarbox
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    TLDR Phenoxyethanol in hair growth products may be linked to frontal fibrosing alopecia.
    This study investigated the role of contact allergens in over-the-counter (OTC) hair growth products in the development or exacerbation of frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA), a scarring alopecia affecting primarily women. By analyzing 58 OTC hair loss products, the study identified phenoxyethanol as the most common allergen. Despite the lack of extensive published data on the role of contact allergens in FFA, the study suggests a potential link between inflammatory skin conditions and FFA. The authors recommend further research with larger cohorts to better understand the relationship between contact allergens and FFA, which could help improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
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