Can tacrolimus (FK506) be used for eyebrow growth?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: May 13, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

From the Guidelines

Tacrolimus is not recommended for use on eyebrows due to lack of evidence supporting its effectiveness in this area. According to the British Association of Dermatologists' guidelines for the management of alopecia areata 2012 1, a case series of 11 patients with moderate to severe alopecia areata treated with topical tacrolimus for 24 weeks showed no response to treatment. This suggests that tacrolimus may not be effective in promoting hair growth in the eyebrow area.

Some key points to consider when evaluating treatment options for eyebrow hair loss include:

  • The level of evidence supporting the use of a particular treatment
  • The potential side effects and risks associated with the treatment
  • The availability of alternative treatment options that may be more effective or have a better safety profile
  • The importance of consulting with a dermatologist before starting any new treatment, especially if you have sensitive skin or other medical conditions

In contrast to tacrolimus, intralesional corticosteroids have been shown to be effective in stimulating hair regrowth in some patients with alopecia areata, particularly in cosmetically sensitive sites such as the eyebrows 1. However, this treatment should only be administered by a qualified healthcare professional and may involve some discomfort and potential side effects.

Overall, when considering treatment options for eyebrow hair loss, it is essential to prioritize evidence-based approaches that have been shown to be safe and effective, and to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs.

From the Research

Tacrolimus for Eye Brows

  • There is no direct evidence to support the use of tacrolimus for eye brows.
  • However, studies have investigated the use of tacrolimus for the treatment of alopecia areata, a condition that can affect the eyebrows 2, 3, 4.
  • One study found that topical tacrolimus was used to treat alopecia areata, although its efficacy was not well established 3.
  • Another study compared the efficacy of topical tacrolimus with other treatments for alopecia areata and found that it achieved the least improvement among all groups 4.
  • The use of tacrolimus for eye brows is not mentioned in the available studies, and its safety and efficacy for this purpose are unknown.
  • Further research is needed to determine the potential benefits and risks of using tacrolimus for eye brow growth or treatment of eyebrow-related conditions 4.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.