When most people think of tretinoin, they think of its ability to treat acne and reverse signs of skin ageing. However, in recent years, there’s been growing interest in using tretinoin for hair growth. In fact, there’s no shortage of content on social media singing about the virtues of tretinoin as a hair loss treatment. But how much of this is fact, and how much is hype? In this article, we’ll explore what the evidence says about the effects of tretinoin on hair growth. We’ll review the best ways to use tretinoin for hair loss, its limitations and how it compares with alternative treatments.
What is Tretinoin?
Tretinoin is an absolute titan in dermatology. Its most common use is for acne and photoageing, but it also has other uses, including treating stretch marks. This Retinoid works by increasing skin cell turnover and stimulating collagen production in the skin. Beyond its effect on skin, over the past few decades researchers and clinicians have discovered hair growth as another benefit. Tretinoin has become far more available as a skincare treatment. Probably as a result, its use for hair growth has suddenly exploded on social (and later traditional) media.
However, the idea that tretinoin might support hair regrowth isn’t entirely new. In fact, researchers dating back to the 1980s began looking at tretinoin as a potential treatment for hair loss. These studies looked at its use alone and in combination with other hair growth treatments. One of the earliest findings was promising. Topical tretinoin could stimulate regrowth in a significant number of people, especially alongside minoxidil. This piqued scientific interest and paved the way for further research, which continues to this day.
Can Tretinoin Boost Hair Growth?
Although tretinoin is not licensed specifically for hair loss, several studies suggest it might help stimulate growth. Tretinoin appears to work on hair through three key mechanisms:
- Increases minoxidil absorption: tretinoin increases cell turnover, which improves skin permeability. This may allow hair growth ingredients like minoxidil to better penetrate the scalp and reach the follicles where they act.
- Stimulates hair follicle stem cells: research suggests that tretinoin can activate certain cellular pathways that promote the proliferation of hair follicle stem cells. This may encourage dormant follicles to become active again, potentially leading to hair regrowth.
- Prolongs the anagen phase: tretinoin might extend the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle. This can then increase hair length and density over time.
Some studies have shown that tretinoin alone can stimulate hair regrowth in a small subset of people. However, its effects are generally modest. Better results come from combining tretinoin with minoxidil, which appears to enhance hair regrowth compared to using minoxidil alone.
Potential Side Effects of Using Tretinoin on the Scalp
As a general rule, tretinoin is a safe and effective treatment if used appropriately under medical guidance. However, as with all medications, there are some potential risks. The most common side effects of using tretinoin on the scalp include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Dryness
- Peeling
These effects are typically mild and usually just require adjusting the frequency of application or using a moisturiser. Furthermore, it’s important to point out that tretinoin can increase sensitivity to sunlight, so sun protection is important. Tretinoin is also not suitable for everyone, including pregnant or breastfeeding women and people allergic to Retinoids.
Alternative Hair Loss Treatments
Although tretinoin may support hair regrowth, particularly when used alongside minoxidil, it’s not a standalone treatment for most types of hair loss. Fortunately, there are several hair loss treatments available either alone or with tretinoin, depending on the underlying cause and severity of thinning. These hair loss treatments include:
- Minoxidil: this is a well-established treatment available both over the counter and by prescription, depending on strength and formulation. Minoxidil works by increasing blood flow to the scalp and prolonging the anagen phase of the hair cycle. It’s available in tablet, liquid or foam form and is suitable for both men and women.
- Finasteride: as a prescription-only medication, finasteride is licensed as an oral treatment for male pattern hair loss. It is also available off-licence in compounded topical treatments. It blocks the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone implicated in androgenetic alopecia.
- Dutasteride: similar to finasteride but more potent, dutasteride also inhibits DHT production. Whilst not licensed for hair loss in the UK, it is prescribed off-label, usually as a topical treatment. It may be an option for those who haven’t responded well to finasteride.
- Low-level laser therapy (LLLT): this non-invasive treatment uses red light to stimulate hair follicle activity in the scalp. It’s available in various forms, including in-clinic treatments and at-home laser caps or combs.
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy: PRP is an injectable procedure that uses the patient’s own blood to isolate platelet-rich plasma. This is then injected into areas of thinning hair to stimulate follicular activity.
- Hair transplant surgery: for those with more advanced or treatment-resistant hair loss, hair transplant surgery remains the most definitive option. It involves relocating healthy follicles from a donor area to areas of thinning or balding. With proper aftercare, it can give permanent results.
Regardless of the treatment option, hair growth is a slow process. It may take several months before you notice significant changes. Most studies suggest evaluating any treatment after 3 to 6 months of consistent use. Hair loss causes and individual responses vary a lot. So it’s best to consult a dermatologist or other hair loss specialist to find the most appropriate treatment for you.
Tretinoin has a lot of potential as a treatment for hair growth when used in combination with stimulating ingredients like minoxidil. However, its use for hair loss is unlicensed, and more extensive research is needed to fully understand its benefits and risks. If you’re suffering from hair loss, you should consult a healthcare professional to find the best treatment for your condition.
We believe in a personalised approach to hair care, which is why we offer bespoke topical hair loss and regrowth treatments through our online clinic. Our doctors create custom hair growth treatments using actives such as minoxidil, finasteride, dutasteride, spironolactone, melatonin, caffeine and tretinoin where appropriate. To start your personalised plan, book a virtual video consultation or use our online consultation form. The journey towards great skin and hair starts here.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a qualified medical provider for any health concerns or questions you might have.
