There is no evidence that topically applied tretinoin causes hair thinning, but hair loss may be a side effect of taking tretinoin orally. Tretinoin is a derivative of vitamin A and over-consumption of vitamin A in food, supplements, or medication can trigger hair loss on the scalp, face, or elsewhere on the body.
But as with anything else, retinoids sometimes come with side-effects, most notably peeling or dryness around the area where the cream is applied. But some people are now reporting that they've experienced hair loss while using retinoid creams and it's definitely something worth noting.
There isn't any solid evidence that applying topical tretinoin triggers hair shedding. However, hair loss is a potential side effect of taking oral tretinoin. Hair loss (including eyelashes and eyebrows) can happen when you take too much vitamin A––especially if it's a supplement or medication.
The clinical trial investigated two therapies for male pattern baldness. One group used a solution containing 5% minoxidil and 0.01% tretinoin, while another used 5% minoxidil alone. Both groups saw hair growth, and there were no statistically significant differences between them.
Dr Kiran acknowledges some evidence that suggests tretinoin may aid in hair growth: Tretinoin promotes cell turnover, which can help rejuvenate hair follicles. It may enhance the absorption of other hair growth treatments, such as minoxidil.
Moving up, the 0.05% Tretinoin strength is up to 10X stronger than over the counter retinoids. This concentration strikes a balance between safety and potency. It is a popular choice for its enhanced efficacy in reducing wrinkles and improving skin texture without being overly harsh.
Retinoids have been implicated in causing mild-to-moderate elevations in routine liver tests, but these elevations are usually asymptomatic and transient, resolving spontaneously even with continued therapy.
Tretinoin may reduce fine wrinkles, spotty discoloration, and rough feeling skin but does not cure them. It may take 3 to 4 months or up to 6 months before you notice improvement. If you stop using tretinoin, the improvement may gradually disappear.
Applying excessive amounts of tretinoin onto the skin to make acne go away faster will not work. This can make the skin worse by causing extreme dryness, peeling, or redness. It may take up to six weeks of tretinoin treatment to see results. Make sure to use sunscreen, especially in the summertime.
On the scalp, retinol acts as a chemical exfoliant that sloughs away dead skin cells, product buildup, dirt, and other debris to prevent clogged pores and optimize hair growth. Retinol also regulates excess sebum (oil) production that can lead to limp, greasy hair.
You can safely use tretinoin long-term. Research has shown no negative effects even with 2-4 years of usage.
Studies show that too much vitamin A can contribute to hair loss, as can too much selenium, although more studies are needed to establish the latter relationship. Alopecia areata (AA) occurs when the immune system attacks the hair follicle. Studies have shown a relationship between AA and low vitamin D levels.
Retinol causes the flaking of dead skin cells, leading to dryness and peeling, particularly in the areas of your face that are already prone to dryness. However, these side effects are not perennial—in fact—they will only last a few days (3 to 8 days).
Signs of drug-induced alopecia
Other early signs of alopecia include a noticeable increase in the number of shed hairs in hairbrushes, shower drains, and on pillows.
When retinol is used, it interacts with the hormone thyroxine and transthyretin. Thyroxine is produced in the thyroid gland and secreted into the bloodstream.
Signs you should stop using tretinoin
It's normal to experience some dryness, peeling, and irritation—maybe even some purging—as you adjust to using tretinoin. But if the side effects become severe or don't go away, it might be time to hit pause and give your skin a breather.
What can you use instead of tretinoin? Alternatives to tretinoin that are also much gentler on the skin include retinaldehyde, which offers similar benefits with less irritation, and bakuchiol, a plant-based option suitable for sensitive skin.
Topical tretinoin can cause your skin to become dry, red, swollen, blistered, or flaky. It may also cause your skin to itch, be painful, or feel like it is burning. Stop using topical tretinoin and call your healthcare provider if these symptoms become worse or do not go away.
Tretinoin counteracts the destruction of collagen and elastic fibers by inhibiting the regulation of MMPs.
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately: fever; weight gain; swelling of the arms, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs; shortness of breath; labored breathing; wheezing; chest pain; or cough.
More tretinoin could be absorbed into the person's bloodstream if tretinoin is used on skin that is broken or irritated, or when it is used more than needed, or when used over a large area of the body. In general, the less tretinoin that is used on the skin, the less likely there will be risks to the fetus.
Dr. Mohta says that tretinoin can be used long term, even your entire life, as tretinoin is commonly used for the treatment of acne, fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. Dr. Mohta, also says that it may be necessary to use tretinoin for a few weeks before you can notice changes in your skin.
Retin-A, a brand name for tretinoin, is a topical medication often used to treat acne. It may also be used off-label to reduce wrinkles by promoting skin cell turnover. The average retail price for a tube of Retin-A cream ranges from $40 to $115, depending on the pharmacy you choose, your location, and other factors.
Three inexpensive moisturizers that our physicians love are Vanicream Daily Facial Lotion with Hyaluronic Acid, Neutrogena Hydroboost Gel, and The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid Serum. All three of these are affordable, non-comedogenic,and blend well with tretinoin.