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Dr. Razack's  hair loss  products

Retin-A, Dermovate, Skinoren,

Minoxidil  combo 2%-6%

Hair  Thickening  Spray

Nizoral & anti inflammatory products

TRETINOIN / RETINOIDS

This is not a medical report. Its information is presented by non medical personnel. Any drug program should be discussed with your physician or endocronologist!

Background: Tretinoin is a kind of vitamin A derivatives. It is a kind of topical preparation commonly used to treat acne vulgaris, fine lines, age spots and other visible signs of ageing. Tretinoin when used in combination with topical minoxidil is also a well known treatment for hair loss in both men and women. 

Tretinoin has been shown to enhance cell and vascular proliferation.  It is commonly referred to as a great exfoliator for the skin. Technically speaking, it works by altering the follicular epithelium (the outer layer of skin) so that it doesn't keratinize (form a hard compact layer).  Studies have shown that Retin-A alone can result in moderate hair growth in some patients. When used in conjunction with topical minoxidil, Retin-A seems to be able to enhance the penetration and absorption of minoxidil. This may have to do with the fact that by preventing keratinization,  Retin-A decreases the protective barrier of the skin and makes it more able to absorb medications that are put in direct contact with the skin. According to Dr. Lewenberg, "Topical tretinoin appears to increase the beneficial effects of minoxidil, and it is thought that this is due to increased absorption of minoxidil through alteration of the stratum cornum barrier." 

Also, one study showed a triple absorption of minoxidil with 0.05 tretinoin as compared with the controlled group. 

Brand Name: Retin-A.  

Side effects: Tretinoin is well tolerated among most patients. It is very safe when used in accordance to your doctor's supervision. Stinging, redness or peeling of the skin may occur. Adverse effects may subside as your skin adjusts to the medication. Avoid direct exposure to sunlight.

Clinical studies: 

• Bazzano GS, Terezakis N, and Galen W: Topical tretinoin for hair growth promotion. J Am Acad Dermatol 15:880-883, 1986
    
• Ferry JJ, Forbes KK, LanderLugt JT and Szpunar GJ: Influence of tretinoin on the percutaneous absorption of minoxidil from an aqueous topical solution. Clin Pharmacol Ther 47:439-46, 1990
    
• Lewenberg A. Treatment of alopecia with a minoxidil-tretinoin combination. Adv Ther. 1991;8:190-198.

Topical application:  Use in conjunction with topical minoxidil simultaneously for hair indications. 

Vendors

HairMedics - Retin-A cream or pre-mixed Reti-A-Minoxidil combo.

Dr. Klein - Pre-mixed Retin-A-Minox combo, available in regular 5% minoxidil concentration or super strength 12% minoxidil concentration.