Hair Loss From Accutane: Causes & Treatment
Accutane (isotretinoin) is a powerful oral medication widely prescribed for severe acne. While it is highly effective in clearing the skin, many users express concern about its side effects, especially hair loss from Accutane. Although not experienced by everyone, it is a recognized and distressing side effect for some individuals.
Isotretinoin with the brand name Accutane is a medication used to treat severe acne. After the medicine was connected to major adverse effects such birth abnormalities and Crohn's disease, the brand name Accutane was pulled off the market in 2009. They continue, however, to sell isotretinoin in generic form under different names.
Hair Loss and Accutane
There are many hair loss reasons one could encounter on a regular basis. Hair loss, including a decrease in hair count and density, is an unfavorable side effect of isotretinoin therapy. Even though hair loss is not a common side effect of Accutane use, there are people who experienced hair loss after using the drug. According to a research conducted in 2013, this hair loss is temporary, while hair thinning may continue after medication is discontinued.
Does Accutane Cause Hair Loss?
Yes, Accutane can cause hair loss in certain users. This side effect is usually temporary and linked to how isotretinoin affects the body’s systems, particularly the hair growth cycle.
Why Does Accutane Cause Hair Loss?
Accutane works by significantly reducing sebum production, which also affects the scalp environment. This dryness and imbalance can stress hair follicles and push them into a resting (telogen) phase prematurely, a condition known as telogen effluvium. The result is increased shedding and thinning hair during or after treatment.
Does Accutane Kill Hair Follicles?
No, isotretinoin does not typically destroy hair follicles. The hair loss experienced is usually due to disrupted growth cycles rather than follicular damage. Once the treatment ends, and the body stabilizes, hair often begins to regrow.
How Common Is Hair Loss on Accutane?
Hair loss due to Accutane is not extremely common, but it's not rare either. Studies estimate that around 10% of users might experience some form of hair thinning or shedding. Genetics, dosage, duration of use, and overall health can all influence the likelihood.
Symptoms of Hair Loss From Accutane
Symptoms may include visible thinning, a sudden increase in shedding (especially during brushing or showering), and dryness or brittleness of hair strands. This shedding is usually diffuse rather than localized.
Does Accutane Cause Permanent Hair Loss?
For most individuals, Accutane hair loss recovery is fully achievable within several months after stopping the medication. Permanent hair loss is rare and usually linked to other underlying conditions rather than isotretinoin itself.
How to Stop Hair Loss On Accutane?
While on Accutane, maintaining a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals, minimizing stress, and using gentle hair care products can help. Consulting a dermatologist for personalized guidance, and potentially pausing treatment if hair loss becomes severe, are also options.
How to Prevent Hair Loss Caused by Isotretinoin Use?
Isotretinoin users can take precautions to control and perhaps prevent hair loss and thinning. Here are some ideas for preventing hair loss caused by isotretinoin use:
- Increase Your Vitamin B Intake:
The usage of isotretinoin might result in a lack of B vitamins. If you have a vitamin B deficiency, consult your doctor regarding vitamin B supplements or improving your diet of folate-rich foods. Avocados, broccoli, and bananas are examples of food rich in vitamins B.
- Reduce Your Stress Levels:
Stress and hair loss are known to be related. If you're on isotretinoin, stress may exacerbate your hair loss symptoms. Practice stress-relieving hobbies such as yoga or meditation.
- Try Moisturizing Your Scalp
Isotretinoin can cause extreme dryness of the hair and skin. This might result in brittle, easily broken hair. Request a conditioner and shampoo advice from your dermatologist.
- Avoid Using Chemical Treatments.
If you're using isotretinoin, you should avoid bleaching, colouring, or applying other harsh chemicals on your hair. Many of these items might weaken your hair, exacerbating hair loss.
- Brush Your Hair Gently and Carefully:
Avoid further hair breakage by just not combing your hair when it is damp. Instead, run your fingertips through it.
- Protect Your Hair from Extreme Sun Exposure
Make sure you cover your head with a hat or a scarf when you are exposed to the sun.
These are all solutions for temporary hair loss. If you are experiencing permanent hair loss, these suggestions may not be as effective for you. However, you could easily find solutions for pattern baldness.
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