From the Research
Yes, isotretinoin (Accutane) can cause hair loss as a side effect in some patients, typically telogen effluvium, as reported in a retrospective review study published in 2022 1. This hair loss is often associated with higher cumulative doses and longer treatment durations. The exact mechanism behind this side effect is unclear, but it is thought to involve isotretinoin's effect on the hair growth cycle. Some key points to consider:
- Hair loss occurs in a subset of patients, with 19 out of 48 patients experiencing hair loss concurrently or within two years after taking isotretinoin in the study by 1.
- The use of biotin supplements may help mitigate the hair loss associated with isotretinoin treatment, as suggested by a study published in 2021 2, which found that biotin increased the anagen hair ratio and decreased the telogen hair ratio.
- Maintaining good hair care practices and avoiding additional hair treatments that could cause further stress to the hair may help minimize the impact of isotretinoin on hair loss.
- It is essential to discuss any significant hair loss with a dermatologist, but they may recommend continuing the medication if the acne treatment is otherwise progressing well, as the hair loss is often temporary and resolves after completing the course of isotretinoin. Some studies have investigated the effects of isotretinoin on hair growth parameters, including a study published in 2019 3, which found no statistically significant differences in hair growth parameters after 3 months of treatment. However, another study published in 2013 4 found changes in hair growth parameters, including a decrease in total count, density, and proportion of anagen hair, consistent with telogen effluvium. The most recent and highest-quality study, published in 2022 1, provides the most reliable evidence for the association between isotretinoin and hair loss, and its findings should be prioritized in clinical decision-making.