Pigmented Concealing Powders for Hair Loss Patients

December 2013 in “ Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology ”

Jack P. Cossman, Barry Ladizinski, Kachiu C. Lee

pigmented concealing powders hair-building fibers keratin fibers electrostatic charge alopecia hair density camouflage dermatologic practitioners hair fibers hair concealers

Studysummary This article reviews the use of pigmented concealing powders as a viable cosmetic option for patients with alopecia, noting the potential for a more natural appearance compared to traditional hairstyling or hairpieces, but it presents no new clinical results. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.

Pigmented concealing powders, also known as hair-building fibers, are presented as a cosmetic option for patients with hair loss, particularly those who do not have total scalp baldness. These powders work best when there are some pre-existing hairs for the fibers to cross-link with, enhancing the appearance of hair density. The article describes various products available on the market, which use keratin fibers with an electrostatic charge to adhere to existing hair. The powders are applied by shaking them onto the scalp and can be adjusted to create a natural-looking hairline. While not a permanent solution and requiring daily application, concealing powders offer versatility and can be used in conjunction with medical therapies for hair loss. They are a practical option for camouflage, especially given the psychological impact of alopecia, but they may be less effective in wet conditions. Dermatologic practitioners are encouraged to consider these products for their patients on a case-by-case basis.

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Research cited in this study

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research A Review of Scalp Camouflaging Agents and Prostheses for Individuals with Hair Loss

36 citations , August 2012 in “Dermatology online journal”

This review discusses methods to hide or reduce the appearance of hair loss using hair prostheses and camouflaging agents, and reports no new clinical results.

research Wigs and Hairpieces: Evaluating Dermatologic Issues

22 citations , May 2012 in “Dermatologic Therapy”

This article reviews the lack of major breakthroughs and limited therapeutic options for extensive hair loss, emphasizing the need to address its psychological impact; it reports no new clinical results.

research Quality of Life Assessment in Male Patients with Androgenetic Alopecia: Results of a Prospective, Multicenter Study

101 citations , January 2012 in “Annals of Dermatology”

In this study, researchers found that androgenetic alopecia significantly harms quality of life, particularly in younger patients, those with more severe or long-term alopecia, and those who have sought non-medical hair care.

research Camouflage Techniques for Alopecia Areata: What Is a Patient to Do?

19 citations , May 2011 in “Dermatologic Therapy”

This article discusses various options for camouflaging hair loss involving the scalp, eyebrows, and eyelashes, and reports no new clinical findings.

research Psychological Effects of Androgenetic Alopecia on Women: Comparisons with Balding Men and Female Control Subjects

222 citations , October 1993 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology”

This study found that androgenetic alopecia causes significant psychological distress, particularly in women, who exhibit a more negative body image and less adaptive functioning compared to controls.

research Psychological Characteristics of Women with Androgenetic Alopecia: A Controlled Study

58 citations , September 1991 in “British Journal of Dermatology”

This study found that women with androgenetic alopecia reported more psychosocial problems and lower self-esteem than women with non-visible skin conditions and men with androgenetic alopecia, which they attributed to their hair loss.