Faculty Bibliography

BACKGROUND:Mesotherapy, a technique of transdermal microinjections of specific preparations, is increasingly used in fields such as dermatology and specifically for alopecia treatment. Its popularity stems from its ability to deliver drugs in a targeted manner while minimizing systemic side effects. OBJECTIVE:To assess and review current knowledge regarding the use of mesotherapy to deliver alopecia medications and highlight future directions for research. MATERIALS AND METHODS/METHODS:The authors used research databases including PubMed and Google Scholar to identify current literature on mesotherapy and alopecia. The following search terms were used among other terms: "Mesotherapy" or "Intradermal" AND "Alopecia". RESULTS:Recent studies are promising for the intradermal delivery of dutasteride and minoxidil in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia. CONCLUSION/CONCLUSIONS:Although limitations exist with dutasteride and minoxidil therapies, further research regarding the preparation, delivery, and maintenance of these drugs is warranted as mesotherapy could establish this technique as a safe, effective, and viable treatment option for androgenetic alopecia.