Dermatologic Care of Hair in Transgender Patients: A Systematic Review of Literature

    July 2021 in “ Dermatology and therapy ”
    Catherine C. Motosko, Antonella Tosti
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    TLDR Hormone therapy increases facial and body hair in transgender men, while hair removal improves well-being in transgender women, but cost is a barrier as insurance often doesn't cover it. Dermatologists can use various treatments for these hair issues.
    The systematic review "Dermatologic Care of Hair in Transgender Patients" analyzed 35 studies to understand the impact of hormonal therapy on hair changes in transgender patients and the effectiveness of various treatment options. The review found that masculinizing hormone therapy (MHT) increases facial and body hair growth and the prevalence of androgenetic alopecia. However, the effects of feminizing hormone therapy (FHT) could not be evaluated due to most patients undergoing laser epilation. Hair removal in transgender women was linked to decreased distress and increased well-being. However, financial barriers exist as only 16-40% of insurances cover these procedures. The review suggests that dermatologists are best suited to treat these patients using treatments like finasteride, dutasteride, topical minoxidil, oral minoxidil, hair transplantation, photoepilation, electrolysis, shaving, depilatory creams, tweezing, waxing, threading, and Eflornithine 12.9% cream.
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