Fractional Laser-Assisted Hair Regrowth and Microneedling for the Treatment of Alopecia Areata: A Review

June 2019 in “ Cureus ”

Robert J. Dabek, Danny S. Roh, Derman Ozdemir, William G. Austen, Branko Bojovic

fractional lasers microneedling Alopecia Areata topical agents immune cells dermal drug delivery AA

TLDR Fractional lasers and microneedling, combined with topical agents, could potentially treat Alopecia Areata effectively, but more research is needed due to limited data.

In 2019, a review of eight studies involving 57 patients examined the effectiveness of fractional lasers and microneedling in treating Alopecia Areata (AA). The results suggested that these treatments, when used with topical agents, could be effective, but the limited number of trials and participants made it difficult to draw definitive conclusions. The treatments were generally well-tolerated, with side effects including pain, and temporary redness, swelling, and itching. The mechanisms behind these treatments' effects on hair growth were not fully understood, but it was suggested they might alter local immune cells and enhance dermal drug delivery. Further research was recommended due to the lack of clinical data.

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14 / 14 results

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46 citations , March 2013 in “Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy”

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research The Histopathology of Noncicatricial Alopecia

43 citations , March 2006 in “Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery”

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research Guidelines for the Management of Alopecia Areata

182 citations , October 2003 in “British Journal of Dermatology”

The 2003 guidelines suggest that while some treatments can regrow hair in alopecia areata, none alter the disease's progression, and wigs may be the best option for extensive hair loss.

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3% topical minoxidil effectively treats extensive alopecia areata.

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104 citations , March 1987 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology”

Minoxidil helps hair growth in 63.6% of alopecia patients, with 27.3% having excellent results.

research Topical Minoxidil in the Treatment of Alopecia Areata

80 citations , October 1983 in “BMJ”

Minoxidil helps hair regrowth in alopecia patients, with 16 having good results and no side effects.

5 / 5 results

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research Comprehensive Review of Oral Minoxidil in Alopecia

September 2022 in “Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology”