Retinoids: Compounds Important to Hair Growth

The document discussed the potential role of retinoids in hair growth, particularly in the context of androgenetic alopecia. Although the exact mechanisms were not fully understood, retinoids were observed to possibly reverse epithelial dysplastic changes and influence hair follicle dynamics. Preliminary studies suggested that retinoids might increase hair growth rates, extend the anagen phase, convert vellus hairs to terminal hairs, and work synergistically with minoxidil to enhance hair regrowth. The authors recommended larger controlled studies and improved methods for assessing hair growth to validate these early findings and explore other retinoids and minoxidil analogs.