TLDR Both treatments work equally well for hair regrowth, but the lotion has fewer side effects.
This randomized control trial involving 70 patients compared the efficacy of topical methotrexate 1% gel and topical betamethasone dipropionate 0.05% lotion for treating localized scalp alopecia areata. Both treatments were equally effective in promoting hair regrowth after 12 weeks, with no statistically significant difference between them. However, betamethasone lotion resulted in fewer side effects, while methotrexate gel was associated with more cases of irritant dermatitis. Despite the higher incidence of mild side effects, methotrexate gel is suggested as a viable alternative treatment option for localized alopecia areata.
July 2022 in “Dermatologic Therapy” Minoxidil showed better improvement than methotrexate in treating localized alopecia areata.
2 citations
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January 2021 in “Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology” Betamethasone is more effective for hair regrowth than latanoprost but has more side effects.
67 citations
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January 2013 in “Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology” The document concludes that alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease without a definitive cure, but treatments like corticosteroids are commonly used.
391 citations
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January 2010 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” Half of people with Alopecia Areata may see hair regrowth within a year without treatment, but recovery is unpredictable.
244 citations
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January 2010 in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology” The document says current treatments for alopecia areata do not cure or prevent it, and it's hard to judge their effectiveness due to spontaneous remission and lack of studies.
66 citations
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July 2003 in “International Journal of Dermatology” Betamethasone valerate foam is more effective and safe for treating mild-to-moderate alopecia areata than betamethasone dipropionate lotion.
October 2024 in “Asian Journal of Pharmaceutical and Clinical Research” Topical methotrexate is more effective and as safe as betamethasone for treating alopecia areata.
December 2025 in “Indian Dermatology Online Journal” Improved diagnosis and affordable topical treatments are essential for managing alopecia areata in India.
4 citations
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September 2011 in “Expert Review of Dermatology” Various treatments exist for alopecia areata, but none are completely satisfactory; choice depends on age, disease extent, and preference.
14 citations
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January 2016 in “Elsevier eBooks” Liposomes improve the delivery and effectiveness of cosmetic ingredients but face challenges like cost and stability.
67 citations
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January 2013 in “Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology” The document concludes that alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease without a definitive cure, but treatments like corticosteroids are commonly used.
