Evaluation of Utility of Phenol in Alopecia Areata

The study evaluated the efficacy of 88% phenol in treating alopecia areata (AA) in 50 patients aged 7-45 years with nonscarring patchy hair loss on the scalp. Patients received phenol applications every 3 weeks, and hair growth was assessed based on texture, pigmentation, and density. Results showed significant improvement in hair texture and pigmentation by the 9th week, and steady improvement in hair density from the 9th week onwards. By the end of the study, 78% of patients exhibited good to excellent hair regrowth, with no poor responses. Side effects were minimal, including temporary hypopigmentation in 10% of patients and hyperpigmentation in 6%. The study concluded that 88% phenol was an effective, low-cost treatment for stable AA.