Actions of Isotretinoin and Etretinate on the Pilosebaceous Unit

Tretinoin can irritate seborrheic dermatitis, but using it with a moisturizer on calm skin may help. Parallel Health's skin microbiome testing and phage therapy are suggested for persistent issues.

Isotretinoin and tretinoin are different; isotretinoin can cause hair loss and has more side effects. Tretinoin may affect minoxidil absorption, and users suggest waiting before applying minoxidil.

The conversation discusses using isotretinoin (Accutane) to reduce scalp oiliness and manage scalp issues like seborrheic dermatitis, inflammation, and chronic itch. A user shares that taking 20mg of Accutane every other day effectively reduces oily hair and skin.

Pyrilutamide's effect on sebum production and scalp inflammation is unclear, with users noting no significant changes. Isotretinoin is mentioned as effective for reducing sebum, while Dutasteride and various shampoos have limited impact on oiliness and seborrheic dermatitis.

Tazarotene may outperform tretinoin for hairline treatment with minoxidil, but lacks evidence. Tretinoin is recommended for the scalp, while tazarotene can be used on the face.

Tazarotene may be more effective than tretinoin when combined with topical minoxidil for hair loss due to its selective binding to RAR-beta and gamma, though it can cause irritation. Tazarotene's potency can lead to indirect inflammatory reactions despite potentially causing less irritation than tretinoin.