Risks & Side-Effects

Your doctor has used the information provided in your consultation to create a treatment protocol including products at concentrations and frequencies they deem safe and appropriate for you. In order to get the most out of your treatment and reduce risks of side effects, you will need to follow your treatment protocol exactly as provided and update your doctor of your progress. Please also let your doctor know immediately if there are any changes to your medical history, you start any new medications or if you or someone in your household becomes pregnant or plans to be.

Below are potential risks and side effects of the treatments as set out in the consent form. Please contact your doctor if you experience any adverse effects or have any concerns or questions regarding these or anything else.

GENERAL SIDE EFFECTS OF ALL TREATMENTS

Please be aware that there is a possibility of side effects with any treatment. General normal skin reactions when initially starting new skincare include irritation, redness, dryness/flakiness/peeling, skin sensitivity, purging (breakouts of spots) and tight feeling of the skin. People with sensitive skin might become excessively red, swollen, blistered or crusted. In very rare cases some people may experience hyperpigmentation (dark patches) or hypopigmentation (light patches) when using active skincare.

Common reactions when starting a new topical hair loss treatment include itching, irritation, flaking, hair shedding and unwanted hair loss. In rare cases some people may experience dizziness or palpitations. Some people may experience changes in hair texture/colour.

For the majority of people the above reactions last for a short period and usually subside in the first 4-6 weeks of treatment. However in a small minority of cases these may last longer. In either case, please let your doctor know immediately if you experience any adverse side-effects (no matter how mild) so that they can advise you on how to manage these.

SPECIFIC SIDE EFFECTS FOR PRESCRIPTION INGREDIENTS

TRETINOIN is a prescription-only active ingredient and can’t be used in pregnancy or breastfeeding (or those planning to be) due to the risk of congenital abnormalities in infants. It can cause skin irritation and increased breakouts especially in the first month of use. Tretinoin also causes photosensitivity so it is important to use adequate sun protection when using it. For more on Tretinoin please visit its specific page.

HYDROQUINONE can cause irritation and hypopigmentation. There is also a risk of rebound hyperpigmentation if used without adequate sun protection. Hydroquinone can also cause ochronosis. This a blue-black or grey-blue discolouration. This is rare and more commonly seen in patients that use a high concentration of hydroquinone for a long period on large areas of the body. For more on Hydroquinone please visit its specific page.

CLINDAMYCIN may cause dryness, itching, or redness. In rare cases, clindamycin can cause more severe reactions like gastrointestinal issues if it is absorbed systemically. If you experience severe irritation or an allergic reaction, discontinue use and seek medical help. For more on Clindamycin please visit its specific page.

METRONIDAZOLE can cause side effects such as nausea, diarrhoea, stomach pain, dizziness and metallic taste in the mouth. It may also lead to more serious reactions like allergic responses or seizures in rare cases. For more on Metronidazole please visit its specific page.

IVERMECTIN can cause side effects such as dizziness, nausea, diarrhoea and itching. In rare cases, it may lead to more severe reactions like low blood pressure, seizures, or liver injury. For more on Ivermectin please visit its specific page.

AZELAIC ACID can cause side effects such as mild burning, stinging, or tingling of the skin, itching, and dryness. In rare cases, it may lead to severe skin irritation or allergic reactions. For more on Azelaic acid please visit its specific page.

SPIRONOLACTONE may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, increased urination, increase in potassium, breast tenderness, irregular periods or lack of menstrual periods, breast enlargement, breast tenderness, and feeling faint or passing out. For more on Spironolactone please visit its specific page.

HYDROCORTISONE may cause side effects such as skin thinning, redness, and increased hair growth on treated areas. Prolonged use may lead to stretch marks, skin discolouration, and increased susceptibility to infections. For more on Hydrocortisone please visit its specific page.

MINOXIDIL can cause side effects such as scalp irritation, itching, and dryness. Unwanted facial hair growth may occur, and in rare cases, it can lead to dizziness, heart palpitations, or chest pain. For more on Minoxidil please visit its specific page.

FINASTERIDE/DUTASTERIDE these can cause scalp irritation, itching and redness. In rare cases it can lead to depression or allergic reactions. Whilst topical Finasteride and Dutasteride have lower risks than oral medicines, there are still some serious potential side effects to be aware of. These include depression or mood changes, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and ejaculation disorders, which can be long-term even after discontinuing medication. Additional side effects for both medications include breast tenderness, enlargement (gynaecomastia), lumps and discharge. There is also a risk of severe allergic reactions. Both drugs pose significant risks during pregnancy, as they can cause birth defects in male foetuses, making them unsuitable for women who are or may become pregnant. Other reported side effects include dizziness, depression and changes in PSA levels which can mask prostate cancer. Click the following links for more on Finasteride and Dutasteride.