TLDR More unbiased research is needed to improve androgenetic alopecia care.
The article highlights the need for more evidence-based guidance in the care of androgenetic alopecia (AGA), as current information can be biased and practitioners disagree on its classification as a disease. A survey of 34 hair loss practitioners revealed that while most acknowledge AGA's pathological features, opinions are divided on whether it is a disease and if it has been overly medicalized. Only 14% believe AGA requires treatment, yet many favor treatments like finasteride for their psychological benefits, despite concerns about safety. The study emphasizes the importance of a commercially independent evidence base to improve care and ensure patients are informed about treatment risks and alternatives.
July 2023 in “Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology” Practitioners treating hair loss need better education and resources to overcome challenges like commercial bias and ethical dilemmas.
6 citations
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June 2021 in “Journal of health psychology” The article suggests that the view of male baldness as a medical issue is influenced by commercial bias and calls for more unbiased research.
178 citations
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April 2017 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” Minoxidil, finasteride, and low-level laser light therapy effectively treat hair loss.
3 citations
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January 2001 in “Cambridge University Press eBooks” Finasteride effectively treats hair loss and enlarged prostate in men, with mild side effects.
June 2001 in “International Journal of Cosmetic Surgery and Aesthetic Dermatology” Finasteride improves hair growth in men with androgenetic alopecia.
2 citations
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October 2017 in “Drug safety - case reports” Finasteride for hair loss may cause painless bleeding in urine and semen.
71 citations
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January 2004 in “Dermatology” Oral finasteride works better than topical minoxidil for hair growth, both are safe.
41 citations
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October 2011 in “Journal of Dermatology” Finasteride 1 mg effectively and safely increases hair growth in Japanese men with hair loss.
13 citations
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September 2018 in “Dermatologic Therapy” Finasteride effectively stops hair loss in most patients, but concerns about rare sexual side effects exist.
