In Vivo Reflectance Confocal Microscopy in General Dermatology: How to Choose the Right Indication

The user suspects scarring alopecia and is exploring NSAIDs and turmeric/pepper for inflammation-related hair loss, having experienced burning and thinning with finasteride and testosterone reduction. They are seeking feedback while unable to afford a dermatologist.

A user noticed irregularities on their scalp using a digital microscope and suspects scarring alopecia, despite using minoxidil and finasteride. Other users suggest seborrheic dermatitis as a possible cause and recommend treatments like ketoconazole shampoo, sulfur soap, selenium sulfide shampoo, and apple cider vinegar rinses.

Topical roflumilast is effective for reducing inflammation in various scalp conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, and eczema, but not proven to stop scarring alopecia. Alternatives like apremilast and Vtama are also discussed for their anti-inflammatory benefits.

The user is experiencing diffuse thinning and inflammation despite using 2.5mg dutasteride daily, ciclopirox, and ketoconazole shampoos. They are considering treatments like hydroxychloroquine and JAK inhibitors due to suspected scarring alopecia and have faced challenges in obtaining a scalp biopsy.

Saw palmetto extract, rosemary oil, microneedling, fluconazole shampoo, and red light therapy helped improve hair thickness and reverse hair loss without using minoxidil or finasteride. The user experienced significant hair regrowth and no longer feels insecure about hair loss.

The conversation discusses using scalp micropigmentation (SMP) to disguise retrograde alopecia, with the user considering oral minoxidil and having experienced side effects from finasteride. Suggestions include trying different haircuts like skin fades and considering the potential downsides of SMP.