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

    July 2021 in “ Dermatology and therapy ”
    Catherine C. Motosko, Antonella Tosti
    Image of study
    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.
    Discuss this study in the Community →

    Research cited in this study

    15 / 15 results

    Related Community Posts Join

    6 / 11 results

      community Why is it that low testosterone causes hair loss as well? How can I be balding?

      in Chat  158 upvotes 7 months ago
      The conversation discusses the confusion over low testosterone potentially causing hair loss, with users sharing personal experiences and knowledge about hair loss treatments like Finasteride. Some users suggest that hair follicle sensitivity to DHT, not testosterone levels, is the key factor in balding, and others discuss the side effects of hair loss medications.

      community Does finasteride/dutasteride reverse aging?

      in Chat  45 upvotes 1 month ago
      Finasteride and dutasteride can improve skin texture and reduce acne by lowering DHT but do not reverse aging. They may enhance skin and hair health for some, but can also cause side effects like dry skin and sexual dysfunction.

      community My mum is mad annoying about Fin.

      in Chat  245 upvotes 6 months ago
      A 25-year-old man discusses his struggles with his mother's opposition to his use of Finasteride for hair loss treatment, despite it improving his condition and self-control after a hair transplant. He expresses frustration over her blaming the medication for various issues and the stress caused by her insistence to stop taking it.

      community This sub is very toxic towards people who don’t blindly follow the fin mafia

      in Treatment  226 upvotes 1 year ago
      The conversation criticizes the negative attitude towards those concerned about side effects from hair loss treatments like finasteride and minoxidil, or who prefer natural remedies. Specific treatments discussed include finasteride, minoxidil, rosemary oil, and RU58841, with an agreement that finasteride and minoxidil are proven effective.

      community Well… I Did It. Estrogen Saved My Hairline

      in Transgender  723 upvotes 2 months ago
      OP transitioned and used Spironolactone, Estradiol Valerate, Minoxidil, and dermarolling, resulting in significant hair regrowth. They advise this method may not be suitable for cis men.

      community FINASTERIDE REVIVING ME FROM THE DEAD

      in Progress Pictures  925 upvotes 3 months ago
      A 17-year-old user reports significant hair regrowth using 1mg finasteride daily and 5% minoxidil once daily. Other users discuss the effectiveness and age considerations of finasteride.

    Similar Research

    5 / 123 results