Understanding Accutane-Induced Hair Loss
Accutane, the brand name used to market Isotretinoin, is a prescription medication to treat severe acne.
It is a synthetic form of vitamin A.
It works to suppress the production of Sebum and prevents the dead skin cells from building up to block pores.
Amongst other side effects of consuming Accutane, hair loss is a big concern.
As per The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology (AOCD), about 10% of people who use Accutane temporarily lose their hair.
In this article, we will discuss Accutane-induced hair loss and the available treatment options to control it.
Does Accutane (Isotretinoin) cause hair loss?
It is true that one of the potential side effects of Accutane is hair loss, including a reduction in hair density and hair count.
In rare cases, you might experience dizziness, blurred vision, vomiting, and nausea.
Consult your healthcare provider immediately in such a case.
A 2013 study confirmed Telogen effluvium hair loss in the participants who were given Isotretinoin.
However, in 2018, another study found that the dosage and duration of the usage of Accutane might affect the hair growth cycle.
Short-term or low doses of the medication might not lead to hair loss.
People with moderate to severe acne who took Isotretinoin every day for three months did notice changes in their hair.
But these changes were not statistically significant enough for the researchers to say that the drug causes hair to thin or fall out.
The same findings were supported in a recent study performed in 2022.
Is Accutane hair loss permanent?
The above-mentioned studies showed that hair loss due to Accutane is not permanent.
There has been no research to prove the permanence of Accutane hair loss.
The hair is likely to grow back once you stop taking the medication.
In 2009, the medication was linked to side effects such as Crohn’s disease and birth defects.
After this, Roche, the company which marketed Accutane, withdrew the brand name.
They, however, continue the distribution of generic versions of Isotretinoin.
Treatment and prevention of hair loss due to Accutane
When used in the prescribed way, the side effects of Accutane must be mild.
If you still experience hair thinning or hair loss, it is most likely temporary.
But, you should inform your doctor in case of any discomfort caused after you start taking the medication.
They are likely to adjust the dosage to suit you best.
Some of the treatment options include
Topical treatments
Topical treatments are applied directly to the scalp and can be effective in stimulating hair growth.
Your doctor might recommend medications that might be helpful to prevent further hair loss and also aid in hair regrowth.
Topical Minoxidil is a great example of such medicine.
It works by increasing blood flow to the hair follicles, which can help promote hair growth.
Some of the products containing Minoxidil include the following:
Oral medications
Oral medicines may also be helpful in treating Accutane-induced hair loss.
Depending on how a person reacts, doctors may also prescribe other pills along with Isotretinoin.
Finasteride is one such medication that works by blocking the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that can cause hair loss.
A healthy diet
A diet rich in vitamins and other essential nutrients is essential while you are on Isotretinoin.
It might be a helpful way to ensure that you receive all the nutrition that your hair needs.
Reduce stress
Excessive stress can disrupt the levels of hormones in your body.
This elevated stress can lead to a worsening of hair loss caused by Accutane.
It is, therefore, important to find ways that work for you.
You can try breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, etc., to help reduce stress.
Avoid vitamin A
Doctors may tell a person getting treatment to take a vitamin supplement, but they will probably ask them to stay away from vitamin A.
But since Accutane is a synthetic form of vitamin A, consuming even more of it might worsen your hair loss.
Hair care
Isotretinoin can dry out your skin and hair.
Hence, they become prone to breakage.
To avoid this, you can ask your doctor to recommend moisturizing hair products to help your hair’s health.
In addition, reduce using heat on your hair or getting any chemical treatments done as they could worsen your hair’s condition.
Also, avoid brushing wet hair as they are susceptible to breakage when wet.
Takeaway
Accutane, or Isotretinoin, is a prescribed medication to treat severe acne.
One of the side effects of prolonged use of Accutane in high doses is hair loss.
However, this hair loss is not permanent at all.
The hair growth cycle gets back to normal once you stop the treatment.
But you can take some preventative measures not to worsen the situation.
Consult your doctor to know the best options for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s Accutane?
Accutane was the brand name of Isotretinoin, a synthetic form of vitamin A. It was FDA-approved in 1982 and is used to treat severe acne. However, in 2009 this brand name was redacted, and the marketing company sold generic versions of Isotretinoin.
Can Accutane cause hair loss?
One of the side effects of Accutane (Isotretinoin) is hair loss. But it is temporary. Your hair growth cycle is restored once you stop the medication. A nutritious diet, hair care, Minoxidil, etc., can help control the hair loss induced by Accutane.
Is hair loss from Accutane reversible?
Yes, hair loss from Accutane is temporary and is usually reversed once you stop taking the medication. You can, however, take steps not to let the hair loss worsen. It includes hair growth medication, a healthy diet, reduced stress, and a general hair care routine.
How do I stop Accutane hair loss?
You can control Accutane-induced hair loss by treating it medically or taking preventive measures to maintain hair health. Minoxidil and Finasteride are the most commonly recommended medications to enhance hair growth. A healthy diet, stress-free lifestyle, and hair care can also prove helpful.
Can Accutane cause permanent hair thinning?
Fortunately, hair thinning or loss caused by Accutane is not permanent. Your hair returns to its original density once the medication is stopped. Consult your doctor to know your options to control your hair loss caused by Accutane.
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