TLDR Topical bexarotene 1% gel might help regrow hair in alopecia areata and is generally safe.
The study evaluated the safety and efficacy of 1% bexarotene gel for treating alopecia areata through a phase I/II randomized, half-head trial involving 42 patients (11 male, 31 female) over 24 weeks. Results showed that 12% of patients experienced 50% or more partial hair regrowth on the treated side, and 14% on both sides, including 3 complete responders. Mild irritation was reported in 31 patients, with 4 experiencing grade-3 irritation. The study concluded that topical bexarotene 1% gel was well tolerated and potentially effective, recommending a randomized placebo-controlled trial for further validation.
286 citations,
August 2007 in “Journal of Clinical Investigation” Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease where T cells attack hair follicles.
61 citations,
January 2007 in “Indian Journal of Dermatology Venereology and Leprology” Garlic gel with betamethasone cream significantly improves hair regrowth in alopecia areata.
117 citations,
February 1996 in “International Journal of Dermatology” A 300 mg monthly pulse of prednisolone effectively and safely treats widespread alopecia areata.
January 2023 in “International Journal of Homoeopathic Sciences” Homoeopathic treatment may help restore hair in Alopecia Areata by balancing the immune system.
6 citations,
March 2019 in “JAAD case reports” A new mix of anthralin and calcipotriene might help treat severe hair loss.
148 citations,
December 2018 in “Journal of autoimmunity” Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease causing patchy hair loss, often with other autoimmune disorders, but its exact causes are unknown.
May 2018 in “Journal of cosmetology & trichology” Combining platelet-rich plasma therapy with prostaglandin-F eye drops can significantly regrow hair in alopecia universalis.
3 citations,
May 2010 in “Nursing Standard” Treatments for autoimmune hair loss have limited success and often relapse, and emotional support is crucial for those affected.
