If you’re considering taking Accutane (isotretinoin) to treat severe acne, you may be wondering if it can cause hair loss. Hair loss is a possible side effect of Accutane, but it’s not very common. According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, hair loss occurs in approximately 10% of people who take Accutane.
If you do experience hair loss while taking Accutane, it’s usually temporary and your hair should grow back once you stop taking the medication. However, in rare cases, hair loss can be permanent. It’s important to talk to your doctor if you notice any changes in your hair while taking Accutane. They can help determine if the hair loss is related to the medication or if there’s another underlying cause.
What Is Accutane?
Accutane, also known as isotretinoin, is a medication used to treat moderate to severe acne. It is a potent drug that is very effective for nearly all types of breakouts. Accutane is usually prescribed for four to five months and can lead to clearing of acne.
While Accutane has many side effects, it is safer than long-term antibiotic usage. Most other acne-controlling medicines are antibacterial agents, which are effective only if used daily. Over two million people have taken this drug, so a lot is known about its safety and effectiveness.
Hair loss or hair thinning is one of the side effects of Accutane. It is not a common side effect, but it can occur. Hair loss usually begins after a few weeks of treatment and may continue for several months after stopping the medication. However, hair loss is usually temporary and hair growth resumes after the medication is discontinued.
Yes, Accutane Can Cause Hair Loss
If you are taking Accutane, it is important to be aware that hair loss can be a potential side effect. While not everyone who takes Accutane will experience hair loss, it is estimated that around 10% of users may experience temporary hair thinning.
The hair loss caused by Accutane is usually temporary and should resolve itself once treatment is completed. However, in some cases, hair thinning may continue even after treatment has ended.
According to a study, hair loss from Accutane is usually only experienced by those who take very high doses of the medication. If you are taking Accutane and are concerned about hair loss, it is important to speak with your doctor to determine whether a lower dose or alternative treatment may be appropriate.
Natural Hair Growth Remedies
If you are experiencing hair loss due to Accutane, there are natural remedies that may help promote hair growth. Here are some natural hair growth remedies that you can try:
Biotin
Biotin, also known as Vitamin B7, is important for keeping your hair, skin, and nails healthy. It’s been known as one of your body’s secret weapons for keeping your hair strong and shiny. How does this work? Biotin boosts the production of keratin. Keratin is a protein that makes your hair flexible and strong that helps to prevent your locks from becoming dry and breaking off. Biotin is especially great for anyone who’s dealing with thinner hair after using Accutane, as it offers a natural way to help your hair bounce back.
You can find biotin in foods such as eggs, nuts, and whole grains. Taking a biotin supplement may also help to promote hair growth.
Castor Oil
Castor oil is a natural remedy that people have been using for hundreds of years to get their locks moisturized and growing. It’s packed with ricinoleic acid. This works wonders by boosting blood flow to your scalp and nourishing your strands. When your scalp gets more blood, your hair gets more of the nutrients it needs to grow strong and long.
Massage castor oil into your scalp and run it through your hair. Let it sit and work its magic for a few hours. Then, simply wash it out, and you’re all set. It’s a natural, easy way to give your hair a growth boost, especially if you’ve noticed your hair thinning a bit after treatments like Accutane.
Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil works its magic in a couple of fantastic ways to promote hair growth. First off, it’s a natural oil that’s incredibly similar to the oil your own scalp produces. This means it’s good at moisturizing your scalp just right, without leaving it too oily or dry. A happy, balanced scalp lays the foundation for healthy hair to grow.
But that’s not all jojoba oil does. It also repairs the skin on your scalp. If your scalp has been damaged by harsh products, environmental stress, or treatments like Accutane, jojoba oil helps by fixing up that surface layer of skin. Plus, it’s a hero when it comes to fighting off inflammation. Inflammation can be a big barrier to hair growth, so by calming things down, jojoba oil clears the way for your hair to grow without any obstacles.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a natural oil that is rich in vitamins and minerals that are essential for hair growth. This natural oil does wonders by deeply moisturizing your scalp, creating the perfect environment for hair to grow.
The benefits of coconut oil doesn’t stop at just moisturizing. Its rich nutrient profile helps to reduce protein loss and strengthen your hair from the roots to the tips. This reduces breakage and makes your hair feel softer and look shinier.
You can apply coconut oil to your scalp and hair and leave it on for a few hours before washing it off.
Melatonin
Melatonin is a hormone that is produced by the body to regulate sleep. But it has also surprisingly been shown to promote hair growth.
Melatonin is believed to boost hair growth by increasing the anagen phase of the hair growth cycle. That’s the phase when your hair is actively growing. By extending this phase, melatonin gives your hair more time to grow, leading to thicker, fuller locks. Several studies have also found that people with androgenetic alopecia (AGA), a common form of hair loss, experienced less hair shedding after using melatonin directly on their scalp.
Habits that Aid in Hair Growth
If you are concerned about hair loss, there are some simple habits that you can adopt to promote healthy hair growth. Here are a few tips to help you keep your hair strong and healthy:
Reduce Stress
Stress can be a major factor in hair loss. When you are stressed, your body releases hormones that can interfere with hair growth. To reduce stress, try to get enough sleep, exercise regularly, and practice relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga.
Brush your Hair Gently
Brushing your hair too vigorously can damage your hair and cause breakage. To keep your hair healthy, use a soft-bristled brush and be gentle when you brush. Start at the ends of your hair and work your way up to the roots.
Soak Up Some Sun But Protect your Hair from Too Much Exposure
Vitamin D is good for promoting hair growth, and there’s no better source of Vitamin D than the sun. But too much sun exposure can damage your hair and cause it to become dry and brittle. To protect your hair from the sun, wear a hat or use a leave-in conditioner with SPF. You can also use a hair serum with antioxidants to protect your hair from environmental damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering taking Accutane, you may have some questions about whether it can cause hair loss. Here are some frequently asked questions that may help you understand this potential side effect.
Can Accutane cause hair loss?
Yes, hair loss is a possible side effect of Accutane. It is estimated that up to 10% of people who take Accutane experience hair loss. However, the severity and duration of hair loss can vary.
How does Accutane cause hair loss?
Accutane works by reducing the amount of oil produced by the skin’s sebaceous glands. This can also affect the hair follicles, leading to hair loss. Additionally, Accutane can cause changes in the body’s hormone levels, which can also contribute to hair loss.
Will my hair grow back after I stop taking Accutane?
In most cases, hair loss caused by Accutane is temporary and hair will grow back once you stop taking the medication. However, it may take several months for your hair to fully recover.
Should I stop taking Accutane if I experience hair loss?
If you experience hair loss while taking Accutane, talk to your doctor. They can help you determine if the hair loss is related to the medication or if there may be another underlying cause. In some cases, your doctor may recommend adjusting your dosage or switching to a different medication.
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