Accelerated hair growth by combining thread monofilament and minoxidil in female androgenetic alopecia.

Abstract

Monofilament thread therapy (PLLA) and minoxidil have been used as alternative treatments for female androgenetic alopecia. The aim was to determine the efficacy and safety of thread therapy combined with minoxidil in female androgenetic alopecia. Twenty-seven women were enrolled in this randomized half-split study based on a left-head to the right-head pattern. Thread therapy (PLLA) treatment was unilaterally performed (once); minoxidil was bilaterally applied for 6months. Global photographs and dermoscopy assessments were performed in the baseline and every 2months till the end of treatment. Global photographs underwent blinded review by three independent dermatologists. Mean hair density increased from 114±27 to 143±25/cm2 (P<.001) in the combined group and from 113±24 to 123±19/cm2 in the minoxidil group (P<.001). The mean change from baseline between the two groups was also compared (P=.003). Global photographs showed improvement in 93% (25/27) patients in the combined group and 52% (14/27) patients in the minoxidil group. Poly-l-lactic acid microthread therapy combined with minoxidil may improve hair density, hair thickness, and hair appearance better than minoxidil alone.