Sensitization to saw palmetto and minoxidil in separate topical extemporaneous treatments for androgenetic alopecia

Australas J Dermatol. 2002 Nov;43(4):311-2. doi: 10.1046/j.1440-0960.2002.00620.x.

Abstract

We report a 24-year-old woman with androgenetic alopecia who became sensitized to topical minoxidil following use of an extemporaneous preparation of minoxidil 4% with retinoic acid in a propylene glycol base. She subsequently also became sensitized to saw palmetto (Serenoa repens), a topical herbal extract commonly promoted for the treatment of hair loss.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Topical
  • Adult
  • Alopecia / drug therapy*
  • Dermatitis, Allergic Contact / etiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Minoxidil / administration & dosage
  • Minoxidil / adverse effects*
  • Phytotherapy / adverse effects*
  • Plant Preparations / administration & dosage
  • Plant Preparations / adverse effects*
  • Scalp Dermatoses / etiology
  • Serenoa*

Substances

  • Plant Preparations
  • Minoxidil