Retinoids: Compounds Important to Hair Growth

October 1988 in “ Clinics in dermatology ”

Nia Terezakis, Gaetano Bazzano

retinoids androgenetic alopecia epithelial dysplastic changes hair follicle dynamics anagen phase vellus hairs terminal hairs minoxidil minoxidil analogs Rogaine

Studysummary This article discusses potential roles for retinoids in hair regrowth and proposes future studies, reporting no new experimental results. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.

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.

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research Dose-Response Study of Topical Minoxidil in Male Pattern Alopecia

24 citations , March 1987 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology”

This study found that 1% and 2% topical minoxidil solutions resulted in clinically noticeable hair growth compared to lower doses or placebo in men with male pattern baldness.

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This study found that a combination of topical tretinoin and 0.5% minoxidil resulted in terminal hair regrowth in 66% of subjects with androgenetic alopecia over one year.

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This study found that 5% topical minoxidil solution led to greater hair regrowth in severe alopecia areata patients compared to 1% minoxidil, although most regrowth was not cosmetically acceptable.

research Topical Minoxidil Useful in 18% of Patients with Androgenetic Alopecia: A Study of 430 Cases

16 citations , January 1986 in “Dermatology”

In this study, 1% minoxidil lotion led to good results in 18% of male patients with androgenetic alopecia, but only 6% maintained regrowth one year after stopping treatment.

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29 citations , August 1985 in “Contact Dermatitis”

Minoxidil can cause allergic reactions like burning, itching, and red bumps.

research Monilethrix Treated with the Oral Retinoid Ro 10-9359 (Tigason)

24 citations , July 1983 in “Clinical and Experimental Dermatology”

Tigason improved hair growth in a boy with monilethrix without side effects.

research Oral Retinoids in Dermatology

52 citations , June 1981 in “International Journal of Dermatology”

Oral retinoids are effective for severe skin conditions but require careful use due to side effects.