Prof Roxanna SADOUGHIFAR
Доктор медицины
Patterned hair loss and the role of low-dose oral minoxidil
Objectives: To evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety profile of low-dose oral minoxidil (LDOM) in managing androgenetic and nonscarring alopecia in transgender and gender-diverse (TGNB) individuals, and to explore its role within gender-affirming hair restoration strategies based on current evidence and expert experience.
Introduction: Hair plays a significant role in gender expression and identity. Transgender and gender-diverse (TGNB) individuals often seek hair restoration as part of their gender-affirming care. While topical minoxidil has long been a standard treatment for androgenetic alopecia, low-dose oral minoxidil (LDOM) has emerged as a promising off-label alternative with growing evidence of efficacy and tolerability. Despite increased clinical use, data on LDOM in TGNB populations remain limited. Given the unique hormonal profiles and therapeutic goals of TGNB patients, tailored approaches to hair loss treatment
Materials / method: This presentation draws upon a comprehensive review of recent scientific literature regarding low-dose oral minoxidil (LDOM) in hair loss treatment, particularly in transgender and gender-diverse (TGNB) populations. Key peer-reviewed studies from journals such as the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology and Dermatologic Therapy were analyzed to evaluate the efficacy, dosage ranges, and safety profile of LDOM.
In parallel, clinical data and observations from specialized dermatology centers providing gender-affirming care were incorporated. These centers have applied LDOM in patients.
Results: Published studies and clinical observations consistently demonstrate that low-dose oral minoxidil (LDOM) is effective in promoting hair regrowth in transgender and gender-diverse (TGNB) individuals experiencing androgenetic or nonscarring hair loss. Most patients treated with daily doses ranging from 0.25 to 2.5 mg showed significant improvement in hair density and thickness after 6 to 12 months of therapy.
Clinical assessments using global photographic scales and physician evaluations revealed noticeable increases in scalp hair coverage, particularly in early-stage hair loss.
Conclusion: Low-dose oral minoxidil demonstrates promising efficacy and an acceptable safety profile in the management of androgenetic and nonscarring hair loss among transgender and gender-diverse individuals. Its use provides a valuable systemic treatment option that aligns with gender-affirming care goals. Further prospective studies are warranted to optimize dosing protocols and to better understand long-term outcomes in this population.