Does Accutane Cause Hair Loss?
Accutane is a prescription medication for acne that is used as a concluding resort after all other treatment options are exhausted. In full general, isotretinoin is a mutual drug used to treat acne, which is available under the brand name Accutane. Simply some believe that Accutane may also cause hair loss. How far is this true? This article explores the relation between Accutane and hair loss, the research behind it, and some tips to prevent hair loss while using this medication. Keep reading.
What Is Accutane?
Isotretinoin, a vitamin A derivative, was sold under the brand name Accutane. It was an acne drug adult by Swiss drugmaker Roche Holding AG, which was discontinued in 2009.
Although oral isotretinoin or Accutane was approved by the Food And Drug Assistants (FDA) in 1982, in that location were reports of potential side effects of the drug, linking information technology to depression and suicidal thoughts (i). The company discontinued manufacturing Accutane. Withal, it still distributes the generic versions of isotretinoin in the market.
Isotretinoin is used to care for astringent acne that does non respond to other forms of treatment. Since it is a derivative of vitamin A, doctors suggest avoiding taking vitamin A supplements while on isotretinoin.
Isotretinoin too has some serious side effects, including pilus thinning and hair loss. Keep reading to find out how it is linked to hair loss.
Why Accutane May Cause Hair Loss
The exact mechanism of how isotretinoin causes hair loss is notwithstanding unknown. Even so, a study constitute that it may cause alopecia areata (hair loss in patches) (two). More research is needed to arrive at a conclusion.
In most cases, such hair loss is temporary, and people recover once the drug is discontinued. However, in some instances, hair loss tin be permanent. Allow's find out what scientific research says nigh this.
What The Research Says
Research indicates that the drug may suppress the hormones nowadays in the pituitary glands (2). This hormone suppression may aid clear acne. Nonetheless, information technology may too impact the pilus growth rate.
Another study suggested that isotretinoin taken in low dosage (0.5 mg/kg per day) may not affect the hair (3). Nonetheless, using loftier doses of isotretinoin or retinoids may cause hair loss (four).
Usually, doctors tailor the dosage of the drug, depending on the severity of acne. Unregulated use of isotretinoin may trigger hair loss. Wondering if the hair loss is permanent or not? Discover out in the next section.
Does Accutane Crusade Permanent Hair Loss?
No. Accutane will not crusade permanent hair loss if you follow the dosage prescribed. You may experience pilus fall, but it will subside once you stop taking isotretinoin.
Doctors normally administer a low dosage, monitor the individual's reaction to the drug, and then create a treatment plan. If you lot are experiencing hair loss while using isotretinoin, you may talk to your doctor for preventive measures or follow these tips.
Tips To Prevent Hair Loss While Using Accutane
- Follow A Salubrious Diet: Follow a healthy diet plan that includes vegetables, fruits, dairy, and meat. This will assist prevent vitamin and mineral deficiencies and hair loss.
- Accept B Vitamins: Isotretinoin treatment may cause vitamin B deficiency, especially folic acid (vitamin B9) (5). This may trigger pilus loss (6). Consult a doctor to notice out the right dosage you may need.
- Avoid Vitamin A Supplements: An excess of vitamin A may cause hair loss and other complications. Hence, avoid taking vitamin A supplements while on isotretinoin treatment.
- Follow A Hair Care Routine: A proper pilus care regimen with the right hair products keeps the pilus strong and good for you. This may aid prevent hair loss.
- Stay Stress-free: Stress is a major reason for hair loss (seven). That is why it is crucial to avoid stressing out. You may effort meditation, take up a hobby, exercise, socialize, travel to dissimilar places, or do whatever keeps yous happy.
The Takeaway
Yous may experience hair loss if you are taking isotretinoin for severe acne. Nonetheless, practise not panic as this is temporary, and your pilus will grow back presently after you stop taking the medications. While on medication, follow the tips to lessen hair loss. Consult a physician if you lot experience hair loss in patches and before trying whatever alternative mode to minimize the drug'southward side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tin can Accutane modify your hair texture?
Yep, information technology may affect the texture. However, it varies from person to person as not all may experience hair texture change.
How long does pilus loss last afterwards Accutane?
Your hair may beginning growing back after 3-6 months of stopping Accutane treatment.
How often should y'all wash your pilus while on Accutane?
Wash your hair not more than ii-3 times a week. Whether you are on Accutane or not, overwashing damages the hair.
Does Accutane really cure acne for most people who have it?
Yes, Accutane helps clear acne if taken as per the prescribed dosage.
Sources
Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified data from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accurateness and relevance. Check out our editorial policy for further details.
- The use of isotretinoin in acne
https://world wide web.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2835909/ - Alopecia areata and isotretinoin; coincidence or causal relation
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/dth.13280 - Isotretinoin influences pituitary hormone levels in acne patients
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21103844/ - Evaluation of biophysical skin parameters and assessment of hair growth in patients with acne treated with isotretinoin
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3907898/ - The effects of isotretinoin therapy on serum homocysteine, folate and vitamin B12 levels in patients with acne: a meta‐analysis and meta‐regression
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/jdv.15886 - The Role of Vitamins and Minerals in Hair Loss: A Review
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6380979/ - Hair and stress: A pilot study of hair and cytokine balance alteration in healthy immature women under major exam stress
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/manufactures/PMC5397031/
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Anjali specializes in hairstyles and hair and skin care and has written over 200 articles in these domains. Her philosophy... more

Dr. Shruti Chavan is a consulting dermatologist at MedicoSheth's Skin and Hair Clinic since 6 years. She is a co-commission... more
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