Physiology and Medical Treatments for Alopecia

April 2020 in “ Facial Plastic Surgery Clinics of North America ”

Tymon Tai, Amit Kochhar

androgenetic alopecia minoxidil finasteride low-level laser light therapy 5-alpha reductase inhibitor hair weight hair diameter hair count scalp coverage transgender patients pathophysiology genetic factors epigenetic factors endocrine factors environmental factors AGA Rogaine Propecia LLLT

TLDR Minoxidil, finasteride, and low-level laser light therapy are effective FDA-approved treatments for hair loss.

The document from May 1, 2020, discusses androgenetic alopecia (AGA), detailing its physiology, genetic factors, and FDA-approved treatments such as minoxidil, finasteride, and low-level laser light therapy (LLLT). Minoxidil is highlighted for its effectiveness in increasing hair weight and diameter, with results visible after 16 weeks, while finasteride, an oral 5-alpha reductase inhibitor, is noted for improving hair count and scalp coverage. LLLT is mentioned as an alternative treatment that stimulates hair growth. The document also addresses the treatment of hair loss in transgender patients and underscores the complexity of AGA's pathophysiology, which involves genetic, epigenetic, endocrine, and environmental factors. It emphasizes the need for evidence-based understanding of hair loss therapies and the importance of clinicians in managing treatment expectations.

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