Evaluation of the Efficacy of Topical Metformin 10% and 20% Versus Topical Potent Steroid in the Treatment of Patients With Alopecia Areata

    October 2025 in “ Archives of Dermatological Research ”
    Radwa El‐Sayed Mahmoud Marie, Moustafa Eyada, Samah M. Elaidy, Radwa El-Sayed Mahmoud Marie
    TLDR Topical metformin gel is as effective and safe as steroids for treating alopecia areata.
    This study compared the effectiveness of topical metformin (10% and 20%) to a potent steroid (clobetasol propionate 0.05%) in treating alopecia areata in 60 patients over three months. Both metformin concentrations showed significant improvement in SALT scores, with new hair regrowth in 60% and 65% of patients for 10% and 20% concentrations, respectively. The steroid treatment resulted in new hair regrowth in 85% of patients. The metformin gel was well-tolerated with minimal side effects, and the study concluded that topical metformin gel is as effective and safe as topical steroids for alopecia areata treatment.
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