Scalp Comedones After Topical Minoxidil

Several dermatologists wrote to the editor about their observations on scalp comedones after topical minoxidil. One dermatologist noticed three patients who developed numerous open comedones on their scalp while on topical minoxidil 3%. The comedones were expressed with great ease with a comedone expresser. Two additional patients developed a lesser degree of comedonal acne on their forehead and scalp while on topical minoxidil and 4% progesterone. Another dermatologist treated 240 men with male pattern baldness with topical minoxidil and noticed three patients with folliculitis in minoxidil-treated areas and three additional patients with open comedones noted in the balding areas at some point during treatment.