What is Retin-A or Tretinoin?

Tretinoin is sold under the trademark Retin-A. Retin-A was originally used in the treatment of acne and other skin disorders. Studies have shown however that Retin-A alone or in combination with minoxidil can result in moderate to good hairgrowth in individuals with Androgenetic Alopecia and Alopecia Areata

Does Retin-A assist in hair growth?

Retin-A has been shown to effect cell proliferation and vascular proliferation. Studies have shown that Retin-A alone can result in good to moderate hairgrowth. The effect that Retin-A or Tretinoin has on growing hair is even more enhanced when used in combination with topical minoxidil. Dr Adam Lewenberg who markets a combination of minoxidil and tretinoin which is known as the Lewenberg formula carried out studies and recorded results of treatments carried out on patients. Dr Adam Lewenberg treated 484 people with a mixture of topical minoxidil and tretinoin. After two years of treatment "cosmetically satisfying" results were obtained in about 90% of these people.

In an article written by Dr Lewenberg about his studies, Dr Lewenberg noted the following

- Unlike Minoxidil which effects on the vertex of the scalp, the combination of Tretinoin and Minoxidil results in hair growth in all regions of the scalp.

- Also maintenance therapy requires less frequent and smaller doses of the combined medication.

- The third point that Dr Lewenberg noted is that the combination treatment of topical Minoxidil and Retin-A is highly effective in women.

Tretinoin or Retin-A is available in either gel or cream forms, however the gel appears to penetrate better than the cream.

Does Retin-A have any side effects?

Side effects of Retin-A include blistering, altered pigmentation and increased sensitivity to light. If a gel is used it is suggested that minoxidil be applied in the morning and Retin-A in the evening to reduce the problems caused by sunlight.