TLDR Topical calcineurin inhibitors might be safer than steroids for scarring alopecia, but more research is needed.
The commentary discusses the issue of scalp atrophy in patients with scarring alopecia due to steroid use and evaluates whether topical steroids are superior to topical calcineurin inhibitors. The authors highlight that while topical steroids are commonly used for treating scarring alopecia, they can lead to scalp atrophy. The paper suggests that topical calcineurin inhibitors might be a better alternative due to their lower risk of causing atrophy. However, the commentary does not provide a definitive conclusion, indicating the need for further research to compare the long-term efficacy and safety of these treatments.
79 citations,
September 2018 in “Dermatologic therapy” Oral tofacitinib can significantly improve recalcitrant lichen planopilaris.
11 citations,
January 2017 in “Skin Appendage Disorders” Use lower concentrations of triamcinolone acetonide to reduce steroid-induced scalp atrophy.
48 citations,
May 2013 in “Canadian Medical Association Journal” Primary cicatricial alopecia, a rare disorder causing permanent hair loss, is hard to diagnose and treat, with treatments like anti-inflammatory drugs and steroids offering varied results and no guaranteed cure. Psychological support for patients is important, and future research should aim to identify causes of the condition.
1 citations,
January 2014 in “Hair therapy & transplantation” Platelet-rich plasma treatment is not very effective for chronic severe alopecia areata.
16 citations,
January 2015 in “Current problems in dermatology” Alopecia Areata is an autoimmune hair loss condition that needs more research for better treatments.
July 2018 in “Elsevier eBooks” Lichen Planopilaris is a hair loss condition best treated early with various medications, including hydroxychloroquine, to prevent permanent baldness.
14 citations,
April 2019 in “International Journal of Women's Health” Some treatments can stabilize Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia, but more research is needed to find effective treatments, and hair transplants often fail.
Antimalarial agents are effective for LPP, and intralesional steroids are effective for FFA.
