Desmoplastic Melanoma Presenting as Primary Alopecia Neoplastica: A Report of Two Cases

The user suspects scarring alopecia and is exploring NSAIDs and turmeric/pepper for inflammation-related hair loss, having experienced burning and thinning with finasteride and testosterone reduction. They are seeking feedback while unable to afford a dermatologist.

The conversation discusses hair loss treatments, focusing on insulin resistance, microneedling with topical melatonin, and stress reduction. Users express skepticism about the advice, preferring proven treatments like minoxidil and finasteride, while some mention alternative methods like dermal incisions and verteporfin for reducing fibrosis.

A user noticed irregularities on their scalp using a digital microscope and suspects scarring alopecia, despite using minoxidil and finasteride. Other users suggest seborrheic dermatitis as a possible cause and recommend treatments like ketoconazole shampoo, sulfur soap, selenium sulfide shampoo, and apple cider vinegar rinses.

Topical melatonin was found to significantly increase hair density and decrease scalp conditions like seborrheic dermatitis. The user is considering using it alongside finasteride and oral minoxidil for treating hair loss and scalp health.

The user shaved their head and noticed darker areas on the scalp despite using finasteride, minoxidil, and microneedling. Other users suggest the darkness might be due to bruising or scarring from microneedling and recommend switching to dutasteride.

The conversation discusses using scalp micropigmentation (SMP) to disguise retrograde alopecia, with the user considering oral minoxidil and having experienced side effects from finasteride. Suggestions include trying different haircuts like skin fades and considering the potential downsides of SMP.