TikTok Thinks Retinol Can Help Hair Loss — Here’s What The Experts Say

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Hair loss is a common, complex, and emotionally charged issue that requires careful consideration. While it may be tempting to believe in a TikTok video promising a quick fix in under seven seconds, it is crucial to approach such claims with discernment. Any reputable doctor, dermatologist, or trichologist (a specialist in hair and scalp) will emphasize the importance of proper diagnosis before pursuing any treatment. Understanding the underlying cause is key to finding an effective solution.

If you're among the 50% of the population who has experienced hair loss in some form, it's natural to seek out affordable and easy tricks. One recent TikTok trend suggests using a combination of minoxidil (the active ingredient in hair loss medications like Rogaine) and topical vitamin A, specifically prescription tretinoin, to prevent hair loss at the hairline.

It's worth noting that the claim specifically refers to tretinoin at a concentration of 0.1%. Tretinoin and retinol are both vitamin A derivatives used for similar purposes, but they are not interchangeable. Tretinoin is a potent synthetic compound available only with a prescription, while retinol is naturally derived and can be purchased over the counter. Many of us already use retinoids on our facial skin, but should we extend their use to our hairline if hair loss is a concern?

Does tretinoin and minoxidil help with hair loss? Maybe, but we cannot definitively confirm or deny it at this time. The claim is based on a few studies that focused on people with androgenetic alopecia (a genetic form of hair loss) and who were treated with a combination of tretinoin and minoxidil. Some promising results suggest that tretinoin may enhance the effectiveness of minoxidil by aiding its absorption into the scalp. However, this research is limited to a specific type of hair loss and a specific form of retinoid.

It's important to note that maximum-strength minoxidil is only prescribed for people with androgenetic alopecia. Whether used alone or in combination with other ingredients, it is unlikely to help with hair loss related to stress or traction alopecia, which is hairline thinning caused by heat damage or physical strain on the hair. "If you don't have androgenic alopecia, minoxidil has no purpose," explains Helen Reavey, a trichologist and the founder of the hair and scalp-care brand Act+Acre. Even for those diagnosed with androgenetic alopecia, minoxidil may not work for everyone. According to trichologist Angela Onuoha, around 50% of men and a lower percentage of women see results with minoxidil.

If you're using minoxidil for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia, should you use a retinoid like tretinoin to enhance its effectiveness? While you can consult your doctor, the current evidence does not support their combined use. Additionally, adding an irritant to an already potentially irritating product may not be advisable. "Minoxidil is made up of about 80% alcohol, which already causes a lot of irritation," warns Reavey. "Adding something [potentially irritating] on top can worsen the situation."

Can plain retinol be used on the scalp for hair growth? It's possible to experiment cautiously by gradually introducing retinol to the hairline, similar to how you would approach it for facial skin. However, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that it promotes healthy hair growth. Onuoha explains, "Retinol is known to increase skin cell renewal when used on our faces. It may help other ingredients penetrate the scalp, which is why this combination claim has been made. But I haven't seen any studies showing that retinol has a significant impact on hair strands." Reavey also points out that retinol can potentially do more harm than good. When extending retinol to the scalp, it's crucial to protect the skin from the sun as retinoids make it more sensitive. "The downside is that your skin becomes more sensitive. If you have any sensitivities or inflammation on your scalp, it can lead to further inflammation and hair loss."

If you're looking for products to promote hair growth, both Reavey and Onuoha recommend using skincare ingredients like salicylic acid and peptides. Reavey suggests using salicylic acid instead of retinoids, as it is gentler and helps unblock hair follicles while stimulating blood flow. She recommends a pre-cleanse scalp treatment with low-dose salicylic acid, followed by a serum with anti-inflammatory properties for optimal results.

Choosing the right shampoo is also essential for maintaining a healthy and balanced scalp and hair. Onuoha recommends opting for a volumizing shampoo formulated with peptides and scalp-care ingredients. Peptides are crucial as they help absorb and retain moisture in the scalp. Many of these shampoos also contain a soothing bioactive complex for scalp health.

In the realm of "quick and easy" hair growth hacks, it's important to remember that if something sounds too easy or too good to be true, it probably is.

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