Hair Loss Myths: Evaluating Common Misconceptions with Evidence

July 2017 in “ PubMed ”

Gabriella DiMarco, Amy Mcmichael

minoxidil vitamin supplements mineral supplements natural topical treatments hair care practices Rogaine

TLDR Many hair loss myths lack strong evidence, but some treatments are proven to work.

The review titled "Hair Loss Myths" from 2017 addressed common misconceptions about hair loss that patients often bring to dermatology clinics. The authors identified 12 prevalent myths related to minoxidil treatment, vitamin and mineral supplements, natural topical treatments, and hair care practices. Through a PubMed search, they found little evidence supporting many of these myths. While some randomized controlled trials indicated the effectiveness of certain treatments, there was a general lack of sufficient trials to evaluate various therapies and practices. The review recommended guiding patients towards treatments with proven efficacy and away from those with limited scientific backing.

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The document discussed the treatment of alopecia areata, highlighting its unpredictable nature and the limited effectiveness of various treatments in preventing further hair loss. Corticosteroids were the most popular treatment, particularly effective when administered via intralesional injection of long-acting steroid suspensions. Minoxidil showed limited success in promoting hair regrowth without affecting the disease's progression. Short-contact anthralin therapy was promising, especially in children. Other treatments mentioned included contact sensitizers, phototherapy, and immunomodulators like inosiplex, cyclosporine, and nitrogen mustard.

Hair Loss Myths: Evaluating Common Misconceptions with Evidence

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