Abstract
Current and Emerging Approaches to Androgenetic Alopecia
University Clinical Hospital No. 2 of the Medical University of Lodz, Poland
Norbert Barlicki University Clinical Hospital No. 1 of the Medical University of Lodz, Poland
Dermatol Rev/Przegl Dermatol 2026, 113, 74–81
Androgenetic alopecia is the most common hair loss disorder, characterized by progressive miniaturization of follicles in androgen-sensitive scalp regions. It results the interaction between genetic predisposition and androgen activity, especially dihydrotestosterone. Although the condition is not life-threatening, it may substantially affect quality of life. Early diagnosis is important to slow disease progression and tailor treatment to individual patients. Established therapeutic options include topical minoxidil and oral 5a-reductase inhibitors, particularly finasteride, whereas topical finasteride, low-level laser therapy, and hair transplantation may be considered in selected patients depending on disease severity, availability, and regulatory status. Low-dose oral minoxidil, platelet-rich plasma, microneedling, and combination regimens are increasingly used, although further high-quality evidence is needed to define their long-term efficacy and safety. This review summarizes current understanding of androgenetic alopecia pathophysiology and discusses conventional, procedural, and emerging therapeutic strategies.
Keywords
alopecia, dihydrotestosterone, hair follicle, minoxidil, 5a-reductase inhibitors
Coverage in
Integrated with

