Hair problems? Who doesn't want to get rid of them? From applying deep conditioning shampoos and serums to applying SPF to hair and shampooing on Sundays, we try every possible way to protect our hair length.
Meanwhile, another home remedy for hair loss is being touted on the Internet: the use of tretinoin.
If you are a skin care enthusiast, you might know tretinoin for acne as a game changer.
Tretinoin is a derivative of vitamin A and is a type of retinoid that is primarily recommended to treat acne. It is known to have many benefits for the skin, such as:
- Reduces acne
- stimulates collagen production
- Improves skin texture by promoting the renewal of dead skin cells and stimulating the growth of new, healthy cells
- Reduces hyperpigmentation
- Unclogs pores
- Improves elasticity, firmness and reduces fine lines and wrinkles
Dermatologists recommend cautiously applying tretinoin to acne-affected areas and comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) at night, as it can make your skin sensitive to the sun and cause redness, irritation, and mild peeling.
Tretinoin for Hair, Does It Work?
It's definitely a game-changer for skin issues, but can it help with hair growth too? Here's what the experts have to tell you about tretinoin for hair growth:
“There are some properties of tretinoin that work for hair growth — but more research is needed to understand how different retinoids (like tretinoin) actually work for hair growth,” says Dr. Kiran, MD, founder of Isya Aesthetics in New Delhi and author of Skin Sense.
Dr Geetika Srivastava, dermatologist and founder of Delhi-based Influence Skin and Hair Clinic, who does not recommend tretinoin for hair growth in her clinical practice, says that it can promote hair growth, as it usually does. It promotes collagen production, which further improves the body's healing process.
“When healing occurs, blood vessel formation occurs. Therefore, cellular proliferation (increase in the number of cells) and angiogenesis (growth of blood vessels from existing blood vessels) are possible explanations for how tretinoin may work for hair growth,” she adds.
Dr. Kiran acknowledges some evidence that suggests tretinoin may help with hair growth:
- Tretinoin promotes cell renewal, which can help rejuvenate hair follicles.
- It may increase the absorption of other hair growth treatments such as minoxidil.
- Tretinoin has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation of the scalp, promoting a healthy environment for hair growth.
- It may also help increase blood flow to the area where it is applied. These effects may be good for hair growth.
Dr. Chitra V Anand, celebrity cosmetic dermatologist and founder and CEO of Clinic Cosmoderma, says, “These effects may stimulate dormant hair follicles and promote new hair growth. Clinical evidence on tretinoin alone for hair is limited.”
Some studies have shown that tretinoin may help with hair growth, especially when used in combination with minoxidil. “The clinical evidence for tretinoin alone for hair is limited,” says Dr. Anand.
“While oral minoxidil is used to treat high blood pressure by widening arteries, applying it to the scalp can increase blood flow and promote hair growth. However, minoxidil is not effective for everyone because it does not directly promote new hair growth. Instead, it creates an environment conducive to hair growth, which may not be enough for all individuals. This is why adding tretinoin to this treatment may show benefits,” explains Dr. Kiran.
But this doesn't mean that you should mix the two and start applying them to your hair or scalp. Or even use tretinoin alone.
Experts warn against unsupervised use of tretinoin on hair
To deal with the problem of hair loss, it is important to understand its main causes. The hard water of your city, lifestyle, vitamin deficiency, stress, hormonal changes or use of a particular product can be the reasons for this.
Although some properties of tretinoin suggest that it may be helpful in hair growth, experts say that there is not much research to prove the efficacy of tretinoin as a primary treatment for hair growth. In addition, it can also have many side effects.
“Excessive use of tretinoin can cause side effects similar to those seen on the face. These include local irritation, itching, flaking, and erythema,” says Dr Geetika.
It's important to talk to a dermatologist so they can tell you how to use it, how much to use — and whether it's a viable option for you.
“If you suffer from hair loss, depending on the cause of this hair loss, this may not work for you at all. So, manage your expectations accordingly. It is best to use it under supervision as concentrated tretinoin can have side effects. It also increases the skin's sensitivity to sunlight, so sun protection is essential, and your dermatologist can help you with this,” says Dr. Kiran.
If you are planning to start using tretinoin for hair then here is a quick guide from the experts:
- Start by using a small amount (pea-sized) once a week and increase the frequency as your skin or scalp gets used to it.
- Remember, applying too much will not give faster results but may cause itching and peeling.
- Due to being light-sensitive, use it at night before sleeping.
- Be aware of its effects, monitor it closely, and report it to your dermatologist.
- If you combine it with other ingredients like minoxidil, keep an eye on your scalp for increased irritation and report it to your dermatologist.
Instead of jumping straight into this Instagram fashion, it would be better to consult a dermatologist.