As social media platforms buzz with tretinoin’s ability to combat hair loss, we verify its effectiveness

Tretinoin, a powerful retinoid that is widely prescribed for its remarkable ability to combat acne, has recently taken the beauty world by storm for an entirely different reason – its potential to promote hair growth.

While traditionally utilized as a topical treatment for acne vulgaris, this vitamin A derivative has unexpectedly found itself at the center of a viral trend among those seeking to combat hair loss and stimulate thicker, fuller locks.

As social media platforms buzz with before-and-after images showcasing tretinoin’s hair-enhancing effects, we speak with experts to confirm if this works.

How does tretinoin, traditionally used for acne treatment, promote hair growth?

Dr Ajay Rana, dermatologist, surgeon, aesthetic physician, and founder of ILAMED and Dermalyn Aesthetics, confirms, “Tretinoin, a retinoid derived from vitamin A, promotes hair growth through several mechanisms.”