Search

Introduction: Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory disease of the pilosebaceous unit that affects approximately 9.4% of the global population. Current treatment strategies aim to target as many pathogenic factors involved in the appearance of acne lesions and are centered on a systematic treatment escalation based on disease severity, extension, and treatment response, starting with topical treatments for mild cases and progressing over to systemic therapies in more severe cases. A literature search, which included clinical guidelines, clinical studies, and review articles on acne treatment and maintenance, was conducted to review the pharmacological approaches currently available to treat this disease. Areas Covered: Topical therapies such as topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, salicylic acid, topical antibiotics, and clascoterone, as well as systemic treatments such as oral antibiotics and isotretinoin are discussed in detail. Combined oral contraceptives and spironolactone will not be discussed in this article. Expert Opinion: There is a need for a blockbuster acne drug that simultaneously targets the four main pathogenic factors involved in the appearance of acne lesions while presenting with minimal side effects. Until such a drug exists, combination therapy will remain the standard of treatment for most acne patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

More than 80 million people in the United States are affected by hair loss, also known as alopecia. Nonscarring alopecias are categorized as diffuse, patterned, or focal. Diffuse alopecias include telogen and anagen effluvium, are usually self-limited, and depend on stopping the underlying cause (e.g., stress). Patterned hair loss, specifically androgenetic alopecia, is the most common form of alopecia; it is typically genetic, and first-line treatment is minoxidil. Oral finasteride is another treatment available for male patients. Focal hair loss includes alopecia areata, which is typically self-limited and treated with intralesional corticosteroid or oral immunosuppressant therapy; tinea capitis, which is treated with oral antifungals; and traction alopecia, which is treated by decreasing tension on the hair. Hair loss can be caused by several systemic diseases. A comprehensive history and physical examination, with targeted laboratory testing, may elucidate malnutrition, autoimmune diseases, and endocrine disease. Patients with moderate to severe hair loss are more likely to have accompanying anxiety, depression, and lower work productivity and quality-of-life scores. Educating patients about expected hair changes, treatment options, and realistic outcomes can help patients feel that they are being listened to and that their hair loss is being taken seriously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) presents a significant challenge in clinical practice due to its prevalence and impact on patients’ quality of life. With a diverse array of available treatment options, selecting the most appropriate therapy demands careful consideration of factors such as efficacy, safety, practicality, and cost. This review aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety profiles of various topical treatments for AGA, investigating their potential advantages in limiting systemic side effects compared to oral medications. This article explores the pharmacology, mechanisms of action, clinical efficacy, and adverse events associated with topical medications like minoxidil, finasteride, ketoconazole shampoo, clascoterone, latanoprost, spironolactone, flutamide, cetirizine, pyrilutamide, and GT20029. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: A three-pronged approach to acne treatment combining an antibiotic, antimicrobial, and retinoid may be more efficacious than single/double treatments while potentially reducing antibiotic resistance. This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of the first fixed-dose, triple-combination topical acne product, clindamycin 1.2%/adapalene 0.15%/benzoyl peroxide (BPO) 3.1% gel (CAB) using pooled phase 3 data. Methods: In two identical phase 3 (N = 183; N = 180), double-blind, 12-week studies, participants aged ≥ 9 years with moderate-to-severe acne were randomized 2:1 to receive once-daily CAB or vehicle gel. Endpoints included ≥ 2-grade reduction from baseline in Evaluator's Global Severity Score and clear/almost clear skin (treatment success) and least-squares mean percent change from baseline in acne lesion counts. Treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) and cutaneous safety/tolerability were evaluated. Results: At week 12, 50.0% of participants achieved treatment success with CAB versus 22.6% with vehicle gel (P < 0.001). CAB resulted in > 70% reductions in inflammatory and noninflammatory lesions at week 12 (77.9% and 73.0%, respectively), which were significantly greater than vehicle (57.9% and 48.2%; P < 0.001, both). Most TEAEs were of mild-moderate severity, and < 3% of CAB-treated participants discontinued study/treatment because of AEs. Transient increases from baseline in scaling, erythema, itching, burning, and stinging were observed with CAB, but resolved back to or near baseline values by week 12. Conclusions: The innovative fixed-dose, triple-combination clindamycin phosphate 1.2%/adapalene 0.15%/BPO 3.1% gel was efficacious and well tolerated in children, adolescents, and adults with moderate-to-severe acne. Half of participants achieved clear/almost clear skin by 12 weeks, rates not previously seen in clinical studies of other topical acne products. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT04214639 and NCT04214652. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rosacea is a common chronic dermatosis. Clinically, rosacea can present with flushing, erythema, papules, pustules, telangiectasias, phymatous changes, pruritus, burning, and stinging. In 2017, the National Rosacea Society Expert Committee recommended a phenotype-based classification for therapy. In this review, we identify monotherapies and multimodal treatment approaches for the clinical management of rosacea including topical, systemic, laser and light, alternative, and combination therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to determine the efficacy of the various available oral, topical, and procedural treatment options for hair loss in individuals with androgenic alopecia. Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, a systematic review of the National Library of Medicine was performed. Overall, 141 unique studies met our inclusion criteria. We demonstrate that many over the counter (e.g. topical minoxidil, supplements, low-level light treatment), prescription (e.g. oral minoxidil, finasteride, dutasteride), and procedural (e.g. platelet-rich plasma, fractionated lasers, hair transplantation) treatments successfully promote hair growth, highlighting the superiority of a multifaceted and individualized approach to management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premature hair graying (PHG) is the early loss of natural hair color, influenced by genetic, biological, and environmental factors. This review discusses the significant psychological impacts of PHG and explores its underlying mechanisms, related health conditions, and available treatments. The review examines the roles of genetics, oxidative stress, and lifestyle factors such as smoking and diet in premature graying. It also considers associated medical conditions and current and emerging treatment options. This overview aims to improve understanding of PHG and its broader implications., (© 2024 The Author(s). International Journal of Dermatology published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of the International Society of Dermatology.)

A previous, proof‐of‐concept clinical study suggested that dermal sheath cup cell injections into the affected areas of male/female pattern hair loss (PHL) may have some amelioratory effects, the clinical efficacy of which needs further examination. A phase III equivalent clinical study was conducted to further probe the therapeutic potential of this novel approach and verify its safety and efficacy in improving the appearance of PHL. Thirty‐six participants with PHL were injected with dermal sheath cup cell harvested from non‐affected occipital hair follicles twice in quarterly intervals. Global photographic assessment and phototrichogram were performed in a blinded manner. Patient‐reported outcomes were assessed for 12 months. On global photographic assessment, 30% of the participants showed improvement. The analysis of phototricogram data detected the increases in the cumulative hair diameter, hair cross‐sectional area, and mean hair diameter of 107.6 ± 152.6 μm/cm2, 13069.1 ± 10960.7 μm2/cm2, and 0.9 ± 0.9 μm (ratios vs. baseline: +1.4%, +3.4%, and +2.2%), respectively. The female and high terminal hair ratio groups achieved better improvement. Of the total participants, 62.9% noted some degree of improvement. No serious adverse events were detected. This novel approach exhibited visible effects while ensuring safety and patient satisfaction. Therefore, it holds promise as a possible therapeutic option for treating PHL, especially in women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common type of non-scarring alopecia. While global photography is the most commonly employed to track therapeutic efficacy, reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) is a non-invasive imaging tool that may offer novel insights in tracking treatment progression for AGA. Ten patients with androgenetic alopecia initiating topical combination therapy elected to undergo treatment monitoring of this formulation using global photography and/or reflectance confocal microscopy. All patients had evidence of follicular miniaturization at baseline, and rimmed dermal papillae at both baseline and the end of the study. One patient had follicular miniaturization at baseline but not at the end of the study; however, this patient did not exhibit any changes in their Hamilton Norwood Score. Two patients exhibited inflammatory cells in the epidermis of the frontal scalp and mid-scalp at baseline on RCM that were no longer visible on RCM after 12 weeks of treatment. Of these two patients, one patient had a Hamilton Norwood score that did not improve after treatment, even though inflammatory cells were no longer present post-treatment. RCM offers a novel, non-invasive option for monitoring subclinical treatment progress in patients with AGA that can uncover novel insights in patients' presentation and response to treatment earlier than with global photography. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is one of the most common hair loss diseases worldwide. However, current treatments including medicine, surgery, and stem cells are limited for various reasons. Cell-free fat extract (CEFFE), contains various cell factors, may have potential abilities in treating AGA. This study aims to evaluate the safety, effectiveness and the underlying mechanism of CEFFE in treating AGA. Methods: Sex hormone evaluation, immunogenicity assay and genotoxicity assay were conducted for CEFFE. In vivo study, male C57BL/6 mice were injected subcutaneously with dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and were treated with different concentration of CEFFE for 18 days (five groups and n = 12 in each group: Control, Model, CEFFELow, CEFFEMiddle, CEFFEHigh). Anagen entry rate and hair coverage percentage were analyzed through continuously taken gross photographs. The angiogenesis and proliferation of hair follicle cells were evaluated by hematoxylin–eosin, anti-CD31, and anti-Ki67 staining. In vitro study, dermal papilla cells (DPCs) were incubated with different concentrations of CEFFE, DHT, or CEFFE + DHT, followed by CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry to evaluate cell proliferation cycle and apoptosis. The intracellular DHT level were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The expression of 5α-reductase type II, 3α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and androgen receptor were assessed through reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) or/and western blot. Results: In CEFFE-treated mice, an increase in the anagen entry rate and hair coverage percentage was observed. The number of CD31-positive capillaries and Ki67-positive cells were increased, suggesting that CEFFE promoted the proliferation of DPCs, modulated the cell cycle arrest, inhibited apoptosis caused by DHT, reduced the intracellular concentration of DHT in DPCs, and downregulated the expression of AR. Conclusions: CEFFE is a novel and effective treatment option for AGA through producing an increased hair follicle density and hair growth rate. The proposed mechanisms are through the DHT/AR pathway regulation and regional angiogenesis ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common cause of hair loss in both genders with a higher psychological impact on females. Currently, topical minoxidil is the only FDA-approved treatment for female AGA and it needs life-long application and causes side effects. Cetirizine is an antihistamine that may be effective in hair loss treatment. This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of topical cetirizine with minoxidil (group 1) versus topical minoxidil with placebo (group 2) in female patients with AGA. This was a double-blind, randomized, controlled, parallel study conducted at Dermatology Clinic, Cairo University Teaching Hospital (Kasr- Al- Ainy), Egypt. Sixty-six patients with female AGA, aged 20–50 years, Sinclair (II–IV), were randomly assigned to one of the 2 groups for 24 weeks. The trichoscopic parameters, patients' self-assessment, side effects and global photographic assessment were evaluated. There was a statistically significant change from baseline in frontal and vertex terminal and vellus hair density (P < 0.0005) with a significant increase in vertex hair shaft thickness and average number of hairs per follicular unit in group 1 (P < 0.05). Patients reported significantly better scores in patient self-assessment in group 1 (P < 0.05). Side effects were not significantly different between groups (P > 0.05). Topical cetirizine increases hair shaft thickness and results in a higher clinical improvement from patients' perspective with a good safety profile (NCT04481412, study start date: July 2020). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last few decades, researchers have put a lot of time and effort into making new pharmaceuticals. As a result, there are now a huge number of pharmacological chemicals that can be used to treat a wide range of diseases that are a problem for the healthcare system. More than 50% of these medications are classed as BCS (Biopharmaceutical Classification System) class II/IV, indicating that they have limited therapeutic value and are not further studied. In this way, it has been shown that lipoidal manufacturing is a good way to distribute these kinds of medicines. This suggests that a method based on nanotechnology has a lot of potential. Nanoemulgel, a gel composed of diverse nano-lipoidal compositions, has been shown to be an effective method for applying topical drugs. Nanoemulgel is an emulsion-based topical gel product. The correct gelling ingredient is added to emulsion globules made using high energy or low energy processes to form nanoemulgel. Nanoemulgels can be made from all kinds of polymeric polymers, surfactants, and fats that range in size from 5 nm to 500 nm. Nanoemulgel has several topical treatments for both short-term and long-term problems. The widespread use of nanoemulgel formulations of recently patented drugs in a variety of healthcare settings has once again shown that topical administration is better than other methods. Toxicological studies of the chemicals used in these formulations must, however, take into account how safe they are, since the way they are given has changed a lot. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA), the most common cause of hair loss, is influenced by various risk factors. Metabolic syndrome constitutes a collection of risk factors elevating the risk of cardiovascular disease. The presence of early-onset AGA could serve as an indicator of the emergence of metabolic syndrome, yet to date, no research has examined these parameters in AGA. This is a cross-sectional study comparing two groups; early onset versus normal onset AGA. Forty participants were enlisted and evenly distributed into the two groups. Subsequently, participants underwent examinations utilizing trichoscopy, trichoscan, and laboratory assessments. Apart from waist circumference, BMI, and age of alopecia onset, there were no notable differences concerning sociodemographic and clinical features. In terms of hair growth parameters, the telogen hair rate stands out as the sole indicator exhibiting a significant difference between both groups, while trichoscopy data also revealed varying hair characteristics. Lastly, metabolic parameters namely triglyceride, fasting blood glucose, HbA1c and HDL differ significantly, with the normal onset group demonstrating a higher prevalence of metabolic abnormality. This suggests a potential association between AGA and metabolic syndrome. However, the exact nature of this relationship remains uncertain, necessitating further research with larger samples, specific age groups and diverse study designs., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

Copyright of International Journal of Cosmetic Science is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA), also known as male pattern hair loss (MPHL) or female pattern hair loss (FPHL), is the most common form of alopecia worldwide, and arises from an excessive response to androgens. AGA presents itself in a characteristic distribution unique to both sexes. Despite its prevalence, AGA can be quite challenging to treat. The condition is chronic in nature and stems from an interplay of genetic and environmental factors. There are only two US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved drugs for the condition: topical minoxidil and oral finasteride. However, numerous non-FDA-approved treatments have been shown to be effective in treating AGA in various studies. Some of these treatments are relatively new and still to be explored, thus emphasizing the need for an updated review of the literature. In this comprehensive review, we discuss the evaluation of AGA and the mechanisms of action, costs, efficacies, and safety profiles of existing, alternative, and upcoming therapeutics for this widespread condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common cause of hair loss in men and women. Traditionally, topical minoxidil and oral finasteride have been the standard of care yielding mixed results. New treatments such as Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), microneedling, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and others have been extensively studied in the literature, and the purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive discussion of the latest treatment methods and their efficacy in treating AGA. Novel therapies such as oral minoxidil, topical finasteride, topical spironolactone, botulinum toxin, and stem cell therapy offer interesting alternatives to standard of care therapies for patients. In this review, we present data from recent studies on the clinical efficacy of these treatments. Furthermore, as new treatments have emerged, clinicians have tested combination therapies to assess whether there may be a synergistic relationship between multiple modalities. While there has been a great increase in the treatments available for AGA, the quality of evidence varies greatly and there is still a great need for randomized double blinded clinical trials to adequately assess the clinical efficacy of some treatments. While PRP and LLLT have demonstrated encouraging results, standardized treatment protocols are needed to adequately inform clinicians on how to use such therapies. Given the abundance of new therapeutic options, clinicians and patients must weigh the benefits and risks of each treatment option for AGA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common cause of hair loss in males which remains a therapeutic challenge. Objectives: To compare the efficacy of topical 5% minoxidil and 0.25% finasteride combination (MNF) over 5% minoxidil (MNX) or 0.25% finasteride (FNS) alone by assessing hair count, physician assessment score (PAS), and patient satisfaction score (PSS). Materials and Methods: Pilot randomized open-label study where 60 male patients with AGA = III grade were randomized into three treatment groups and evaluated over 24 weeks. Improvement in hair count was assessed manually using dermoscopy. Global photographs were used to assess PAS. Side effects were evaluated using relevant laboratory investigations. Results: At the 12th and 24th week, all three groups showed significant improvement in total hair density as compared to baseline (P < 0.001). None of the groups was superior to the other (P > 0.05) at the 12th week but at 24th week, MNF was comparatively superior (P < 0.02). At the 12th week and 24th week, all three groups showed significant improvement in terminal hair density as compared to baseline (P < 0.001). In the 12th week, MNF was comparatively superior (P = 0.028) and at the 24th week, MNF was comparatively superior (P < 0.02). PAS and PSS were significantly better with MNF and MNX compared to FNS (P < 0.004). Side effects such as scaling and itching were reported with MNF and MNX. Conclusion: Topical minoxidil 5% and finasteride 0.25% had an overall better efficacy compared to monotherapy without significant side effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an adjunctive treatment in androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Its role as a monotherapy, when compared to FDA-approved therapies in moderate grades of androgenetic alopecia is not established. We sought to study the efficacy and safety of standardized non-activated PRP preparation against topical minoxidil in AGA. Men aged 20–50 with Grade III and IV (Modified Hamilton-Norwood) AGA were randomized to receive 5% Minoxidil (×6 months) or PRP injections (monthly ×3). The primary endpoints were global photographic assessment at week 24, change in target area hair counts, density, and anagen hair at week 12. Other outcomes were subjects' satisfaction and adverse events. In total, 64 participants were randomized. At week 24, 56% responded to Minoxidil arm and 38% to PRP (p = 0.124). There was a significant increase in target area hair count and density at week 12 within the groups. The difference between the groups was not statistically significant. Adverse events occurred in 53% and 37% of the PRP and minoxidil groups, respectively. Patient satisfaction was better with Minoxidil. PRP is effective in the treatment of moderate grades of androgenetic alopecia in men, although perhaps not different from minoxidil. Side effects occur more frequently with PRP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using a three-pronged acne treatment approach—combining an antibiotic, antimicrobial agent, and retinoid—may provide greater efficacy than monad or dyad treatments. Herein are the dermal sensitization, irritation, safety, and tolerability results from phase 1 and 2 studies of fixed-dose clindamycin phosphate 1.2%/benzoyl peroxide (BPO) 3.1%/adapalene 0.15% (IDP-126) polymeric mesh gel. Two phases 1, single-blind, vehicle-controlled dermal safety studies were conducted in healthy participants aged ≥18 years. One phase 2 (NCT03170388) double-blind, randomized, parallel-group, and vehicle-controlled study was conducted over 12 weeks in participants aged ≥9 years with moderate-to-severe acne. A total of 1,020 participants (IDP-126 gel, vehicle, or 1 of the 3 dyad gels [phase 2 only]) were included across the 3 studies (safety populations: n = 1,004). In the phase 1 studies, IDP-126 had no confirmed sensitization or contact dermatitis. IDP-126 (deemed "moderately irritating") was significantly less irritating than commercially available BPO 2.5%/adapalene 0.3% gel. The results from these three studies show that the triple-combination IDP-126 had a positive safety profile and was well tolerated in healthy participants and those with moderate-to-severe acne [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a common chronic dermatological illness that affects both men and women. Aim: To assess and compare dermoscopically the impact of a combination of topical minoxidil solution (5%) and topical spironolactone solution (5%) in treating AGA in both sexes. Patients and Methods: One hundred and twenty patients diagnosed with AGA were divided into three groups; each group is composed of 40 patients. Group A (n = 40) were treated with a 5% topical minoxidil solution, group B (n = 40) were treated with a 5% topical spironolactone solution, and group C (n = 40) were treated with a 5% topical minoxidil and spironolactone combination. Results: Following the initiation of treatment and at 6 weeks (midterm), reduction in all dermoscopic features was observed in all groups; however, it was not statistically significant except for vellus hair reduction (p = 0.033). On the contrary, upright regrowing hairs were insignificantly increased in all groups (p = 1.088). The pattern of dermoscopic features remained to insignificantly decrease toward the end of 12 weeks treatment (full term) in all studied groups except for vellus hair that showed further significant reduction toward the end of the study (p = 0.011). Conclusion: Both spironolactone as a 5% topical solution and minoxidil as a 5% topical solution might be used safely in a twice‐daily dosage to treat AGA in both genders. Furthermore, combining them in a single topical dose form can boost efficacy and yield greater advantages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Minoxidil solution is used for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Minoxidil 5% solution has been shown to have superior efficacy to minoxidil 2% solution, it is unknown whether concentrations of minoxidil > 5% provide additional clinical benefit. We performed a review of the literature to examine the evidence on the efficacy and safety of higher concentrations of minoxidil in AGA. A search of the PubMed database was performed using the keywords 'minoxidil', 'androgenic alopecia' and 'pattern hair loss'. Relevant articles, including clinical trials, other clinical studies, case series and case reports published in English were considered for review. In addition, relevant references from the bibliography section of the retrieved articles were also reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Camellia seed cake is a by‐product of Camellia oleifera Abel seed after oil extraction. Washing hair with Camellia seed cake extract is a traditional Chinese custom that has lasted for over one thousand years. However, the hair growth‐promoting effects of Camellia seed cake extract were not investigated so far. This work examined the effects of de‐saponinated Camellia seed cake extracts (DS‐CSE) on hair growth, using in vitro and in vivo models. Methods: The studies on cell proliferation, cell cycle regulation, and K+ channels activation effects of DS‐CSE were performed on human dermal papilla cells (DPCs). Relative expression of insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), and transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β1) in DPCs was determined by RT‐PCR. Relative expression of ERK and AKT was determined by Western blot analysis. Hair growth‐promoting effects were also measured in C57BL/6J mice model. Results: DS‐CSE treatment significantly proliferated DPCs, relating to the increased proportion of DPCs in S and G2/M phases, the activation of potassium channels and the promoted phosphorylation of ERK and AKT in DPCs. DS‐CSE treatment also significantly upregulated the mRNA levels of HGF, VEGF and IGF‐1, and downregulated the mRNA level of TGF‐β1. Topical application of DS‐CSE promoted hair growth on shaven back mice and also upregulated the expression of VEGF in mice. Conclusion: Our results demonstrated that DS‐CSE exerts a hair growth‐promoting effect in vitro and in vivo by proliferating DPCs through the ERK and AKT signaling pathways and regulating the expression of growth factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The most prevalent cause of hair loss in men is androgenetic alopecia (AGA), which has few available treatments. One of the more recent treatment options for the management of AGA that has produced encouraging outcomes is platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy. Aims and Objectives- the efficacy of PRP versus topical 10% minoxidil and microneedling in the treatment of androgenic alopecia and study the safety profile of these modalities. Materials and Methods: A prospective study was conducted in Department of Dermatology, Dr SN Medical College Jodhpur, 90 male patients with grade III to VI were randomly divided in three groups. Group 1: Platelet Rich Plasma. Group 2: 10% Minoxidil. Group 3: Microneedling. Results: The mean patient age in the current study was 36.03 years for PRP, 33.56 years for Minoxidil, and 35.9 years for the microneedling group. The mean hair thickness increased by 2.26 micron in PRP group, 8.76 micron in minoxidil group and 1.77 micron in micro needling group. The mean hair density of the patients in all groups increased statistically significantly. Conclusion- Overall, PRP can be considered an effective modality to begin treatment in patients to be supplemented with minoxidil if hair loss progresses. Microneedling can be used as a lone modality in patients or an additive therapy with PRP. In addition to its own action, it would help promote penetration of other therapeutic agents. Combining the following therapies can stimulate hair growth and halt hairloss for a while. These are effective before hair transplant surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a common type of alopecia characterized by the shortening of the anagen phase of hair growth and the miniaturization of hair follicles. TGF-ß is a well-known hair cycle catagen phase inducer and is involved in the catagen phase in AGA. Inhibition of TGF-ß is recognized as a therapeutic option in the treatment of AGA. Procyanidins are a type of polyphenol that has been shown to inhibit TGF-ß activity in vivo, but there haven't been many studies on their effectiveness. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of topical procyanidin B2 in the treatment of male AGA. Materials and Methods: Patients aged between 18 and 50 years who applied to our dermatology outpatient clinic with the complaint of AGA and had Hamilton-Norwood type II-V AGA were included in our study. Those who had received 5-reductase inhibitor or isotretinoin treatment in the previous year, those who had used any medicinal or herbal product that stimulated hair growth, particularly topical minoxidil, in the previous six months, those who had used systemic steroids for more than two weeks in the previous three months, those who had undergone a transplant or scalp reduction, and those who had received radiotherapy or chemotherapy at any point in their lives were excluded from the study. A total of 40 patients who met the current criteria were included in the study. Patients were randomized into two groups to receive 16 weeks of topical procyanidin B2 (n = 20) or placebo (n = 20) therapy. At the end of the treatment, the patients were called for control. The efficacy of topical procyanidin B2 after treatment was evaluated by trichoscan and global photographic evaluation. Results: A total of 40 male patients (mean: 33.32, range: 21-44) with AGA type II-IV were included in the study. There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of age, duration of hair loss, and AGA type (P > 0.05). At the end of the study, there was a significant increase in total hair count in the topical procyanidin B2 group compared to the placebo group compared to baseline (P < 0.05). Anagen hair count was also significantly increased in the topical procyanidin B2 group (P < 0.05). Conclusion: In this placebo-controlled study, we think that topical procyanidin B2 is an effective and safe treatment option in the treatment of AGA patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clitoria ternatea is a vine native to tropical and equatorial Asia. Previous review articles have mentioned about different biological activities of extracts from flowers and other parts of the plant, but none being related to hair growth-promoting activity. Scientific reports dealing with hair growth-promoting activity of this plant are scarce. In the present study, the effect of alcoholic extract from its flowers on the proliferation of dermal papilla cells (DPCs) from isolated hair papillae of normal human scalp hair follicles was performed in comparison with minoxidil. Moreover, its effect on hair growth was also tested in C57BL/6Mlac mice of both sexes in comparison with minoxidil and latanoprost. The results have indicated that the extract could increase human DPC proliferation and stimulate the initial hair growth of C57BL/6Mlac mice, but it has no ability to increase the number of hair follicles or to prolong the anagen hair follicles. The effects of the C. ternatea alcoholic extract were similar to those of minoxidil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: While soaps are the most commonly used cleansing agents for human skin, they also damage the epidermal barrier and potentially increase the risk of disorders such as contact dermatitis. Aims: This study set out to compare the potential skin irritancy of four types of soaps and their effects on the skin barrier function and biophysical parameters. Methods: In a nonblinded comparative study, three types of soaps (alkaline, creamy, and glycerin soaps), and a syndet were applied to four different groups of 15 healthy subjects. Subjects washed their left forearm with the respective soap at home at least four times a day for seven days. Biophysical skin parameters, including transepidermal water loss (TEWL), erythema, friction, and pH, were measured at various time points using the Cutometer®MPA 580. Results: After the first wash, a significant increase in TEWL was observed for all groups compared to the pre‐intervention period. For the alkaline soap, a substantial increase in pH was observed at all time points compared to the baseline. Syndet, the only acidic soap in this study, showed a significant decrease in pH at the last time compared to all time points. The mean value of erythema was significantly higher in alkaline soap users than glycerin and creamy soap users. Conclusion: Our study showed that alkaline‐based soaps could cause erythema and increase TEWL and skin pH due to their strong cleansing action, and the addition of compounds such as glycerin can modify these effects. A newer generation of soap containing a mild surfactant such as syndets causes less skin damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare the efficacy of platelet rich plasma (PRP) vs. topical Minoxidil (5%) as synergistic treatments in patients receiving oral Finasteride for androgenic alopecia. Study type, settings & duration: A comparative cross sectional study was conducted at Department of Dermatology, Sheikh Zayed Hospital, Rahim Yar Khan from July 2019 to June 2020. Methodology: One hundred male cases of androgenic alopecia with age more than 20 years were included. The cases were divided into two equal groups A and B. The cases in group A were treated by monthly injections of PRP for 6 months while Group B was given treatment with topical Minoxidil therapy with a dose of 1 ml twice daily for 6 months. Both groups were given Finasteride in a dose of 1 mg per day. All cases were assessed for efficacy on the basis of standardized seven-point scale for hair growth. A reduction of 2 or more grades was labelled as efficacious. Results: The 100 male cases of androgenic alopecia were equally divided in two groups A and B. The mean age of cases in group A and B was 29.06±7.18y and 32.10±6.64 respectively with a p value of 0.45. Mean duration of alopecia was 9.64±3.04 and 10.12±3.13 months with p =0.65. In group A the treatment efficacy was observed in 39 (78%) cases and in group B efficacy was observed in 20 (40%) cases with p value of 0.0001. Conclusion: Platelet rich plasma in combination with Finasteride is significantly better therapy than Minoxidil with Finasteride for the treatment of androgenic alopecia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Topical minoxidil (5% foam, 5% solution, and 2% solution) is FDA-approved for androgenetic alopecia (AGA) in men and women. Mechanism of action: Minoxidil acts through multiple pathways (vasodilator, anti-inflammatory agent, inducer of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, an antiandrogen), and may also affect the length of the anagen and telogen phases. Pharmacokinetics: Approximately 1.4% of topical minoxidil is absorbed through the skin. Minoxidil is a prodrug that is metabolized by follicular sulfotransferase to minoxidil sulfate (active form). Those with higher sulfotransferase activity may respond better than patients with lower sulfotransferase activity. Clinical efficacy (topical minoxidil): In a five-year study, 2% minoxidil exhibited peak hair growth in males at year one with a decline in subsequent years. Topical minoxidil causes hair regrowth in both frontotemporal and vertex areas. The 5% solution and foam were not significantly different in efficacy from the 2% solution. Oral and Sublingual minoxidil (not FDA approved; off-label): After 6 months of administration, minoxidil 5 mg/day was significantly more effective than topical 5% and 2% in male AGA. Low-dose 0.5–5 mg/day may also be safe and effective for female pattern hair loss and chronic telogen effluvium. Sublingual minoxidil may be safe and effective in male and female pattern hair loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Even though a variety of treatments for androgenetic alopecia (AGA) currently have been using in clinical, satisfactory therapeutic methods are still lacking. We aimed to compare and rank these treatments for AGA according to their differences in efficacy via Bayesian network meta‐analysis, suggesting the optimal therapy for clinical utility to refer. A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library database was performed and we included eligible randomized controlled trials. We compared differences in treatment effects of monotherapies and combination therapies using the Bayesian network model. The average difference in alteration from baseline of hair density and hair diameter, and variation value (mean ± SD) between the pre‐ and post‐intervention was selected for main outcome measure and secondary outcome measure. Total 49 RCTs involving 3133 patients and six interventions were included. Regardless of based on hair density or hair diameter, topical/systemic combined with adjunctive therapeutics had the best treatment efficacy among all interventions (MD: 40.11; 95% CrI 25.65–54.59), followed by topical combined with systemic medical therapeutics (MD: 36.41; 95% CrI 17.54–55.24). In addition, in terms of hair density, treatment efficacy had significant difference sequentially among topical medical therapeutics (MD: 22.15; 95% CrI 12.88–31.42), systemic medical therapeutics (MD: 19.91; 95% CrI 6.504–33.22), and adjunctive therapeutics (MD: 18.60; 95% CrI 8.020–29.10) compared to placebo. In recent years, combination therapies are showing significant promise as potential therapies. Taken together with the outcomes of this study, despite the specific mechanism of the effect of combination therapies was not clear and further studies are needed, it may be the best treatment for AGA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]