November 2020 in “Elsevier eBooks” Antiandrogens and androgen inhibitors like spironolactone, finasteride, and dutasteride can treat hair loss and skin conditions, but they have risks and side effects, including potential harm to pregnant women and risks of cancer and heart issues. Herbal remedies also have antiandrogenic effects but lack safety validation.
81 citations
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March 2009 in “Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery” Effective hair loss treatment in women requires correct diagnosis and can include medications like minoxidil, antiandrogens, and treatments for underlying conditions like PCOS.
February 2026 in “Case Reports in Dermatology” Finasteride can cause melasma, especially in people with darker skin.
January 2026 in “Figshare” This case report highlights two instances of finasteride-induced melasma, expanding the limited literature on pigmentary side effects associated with 5-alpha reductase inhibitors (5-ARIs). The first case involved a 53-year-old woman who developed cheek hyperpigmentation after one year of finasteride use for frontal fibrosing alopecia, which improved partially after discontinuation of the drug and treatment with cysteamine cream. The second case described a 66-year-old man with a decade-long history of finasteride use for benign prostatic hyperplasia, who developed melasma unresponsive to topical therapies. His treatment was adjusted to include cysteamine, glutathione, azelaic acid, and a retinoid, and he was advised to consult his urologist about stopping finasteride. The report underscores the importance of considering 5-ARI exposure in patients with new or persistent facial hyperpigmentation, especially in those with darker skin types, to prevent prolonged pigmentation issues.
10 citations
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May 2015 in “International Journal of Women's Dermatology” New treatments for skin and hair disorders in women of color address unique biological differences and include specific acne medications, sunscreens, skin lighteners, and hair care adjustments.
