The Use of Trichoscopy to Assess the Efficacy of Topical Minoxidil 2% Solution in Patients with Female Pattern Hair Loss

Abstract

Background: Female pattern hair loss is a common cause of alopecia in women that predominately affects postmenopausal women and is characterized by a decrease in hair density over the crown and frontal scalp. The aim of this study was a clinical and trichoscopic evaluation of topical minoxidil 2% solution in treatment of female pattern hair loss. Methods: A clinical trial was done with twenty patients with female pattern hair loss. The studied patients were treated with minoxidil 2% topical solution twice daily for six months. A clinical and trichoscopic examination were done before starting treatment and every two months with photo-documentation, and scoring of disease severity using Ludwig Scale. Results: Regarding hair growth, a significant difference was detected between baseline and both 4 and 6 months. 55% of studied patients reported side effects. Conclusion: Minoxidil stimulates hair growth after 4 months of treatment but with side effects as dermatitis and hypertrichosis.