Topical Cetirizine in Androgenetic Alopecia: A Preliminary Study
December 2025
in “
Skin Appendage Disorders
”
New to Cetirizine? There is a guide in the encyclopedia. Read the guide → Studysummary This study found that applying a 1% cetirizine solution daily for 16 weeks resulted in a statistically significant increase in hair count among men with androgenetic alopecia, although improvements in global photographs were less pronounced, highlighting the need for larger studies to confirm these findings. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.
This preliminary study investigated the effects of topical cetirizine on androgenetic alopecia (AGA) in 10 men over 16 weeks. Cetirizine, known for reducing prostaglandin D2 and its anti-inflammatory properties, was applied daily. Nine participants completed the study, showing a significant increase in mean hair count from 139.6 to 163.4 (p = 0.009). Blinded photographic assessments showed varying degrees of improvement, and trichoscopic counts improved in all patients. No adverse events were reported. The study suggests cetirizine as a potential AGA therapy, but larger, longer-term studies are needed to confirm its efficacy and mechanism.
