Placebo Effect of Topical and Oral Treatments for Androgenetic Alopecia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Oral treatments for hair loss, like Dutasteride and Minoxidil, may be more effective than topical ones, though topical formulations can be similarly effective except for Minoxidil. Topical treatments can be a chore to apply and are often used as supplements to oral treatments.

The conversation discusses switching from oral to topical treatments for hair loss, specifically using a mix of retinoic acid, finasteride, and minoxidil, after oral treatments like dutasteride and finasteride were ineffective. The user is concerned about the cost and potential impact of dandruff on the absorption of topical treatments.

Topical tacrolimus is being considered for androgenetic alopecia, though its effectiveness is unproven. Other treatments mentioned include minoxidil, dutasteride, cyclosporine, and teicoplanin, with discussions on blocking the prolactin receptor for hair growth.

The user experienced hair regrowth over three months using oral finasteride daily, topical minoxidil 5-6 times a week, a weekly derma stamp, and tretinoin 2-3 times a week. The regrowth includes small hairs, attributed to the treatments.

Topical spironolactone is discussed as a potential treatment for androgenic alopecia, with the user seeking feedback on its effectiveness. Minoxidil, finasteride, and other treatments like microneedling and keto shampoo are mentioned as alternatives.

A woman with androgenic hair loss, likely due to PCOS, is seeking topical treatments as oral medications are not an option. Suggested treatments include topical finasteride, spironolactone, and clascoterone, with spironolactone and clascoterone being safer options due to lower systemic absorption risk.