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HairCited

A Qualitative Review of Misinformation on Alopecia.

Paula Finnegan, YiXuan Goh, Michelle Murphy, Cathal O'Connor
Review Skin appendage disorders 2025 2 citations
PubMed DOI
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Study Design





            

                

                    

                        
                        

                            
Study Type

                            
Review

                        

                        
                        
                        
                        
                    

                    

                        
                        

                            
Intervention

                            
A Qualitative Review of Misinformation on Alopecia. None

                        

                        
                        
                        

                            
Comparator

                            
Placebo

                        

                        
                        
                        

                            
Effect Direction

                            

                                
                                    Neutral
                                
                            

                        

                        
                        

                            
Risk of Bias

                            
Unclear

                        

                        
                    

                

            

        

        

        
        
        

            

  
Abstract





            

                
BACKGROUND: Alopecia is common and can lead to significant distress for patients. Patients often seek medical information on the Internet, which may leave them susceptible to misinformation from poor-quality sources. The aim of this study was to qualitatively assess misinformation available online related to alopecia.

SUMMARY: Several alopecia-related myths were identified, including false causes, criticism of conventional treatments, and bogus "natural" cures or remedies. False causes included headwear, haircare practices, and sexual practices. Treatments which were criticized included minoxidil, finasteride, topical corticosteroids, ciclosporin, methotrexate, and Janus kinase inhibitors. Alternative unfounded therapies which were touted included mineral supplements, biotin, B vitamin complexes, fish oils, shark cartilage, onion juice, rosemary oil, horsetail extract, and saw palmetto.

KEY MESSAGES: Misinformation related to alopecia is prevalent online and may lead to suboptimal therapeutic outcomes. Dermatologists and other healthcare professionals should combat misinformation when encountered.

            

        

        

        
        

        
        

        
        

        
        

        
        

        
        
        

            

  
Used In Evidence Reviews





            

                
                
                    

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