Emerging treatments tackling hair loss challenges include light therapies

The use of JAK inhibitors is not the only notable development in the treatment of hair loss; light-based options show potential as well, according to Maria Hordinsky, MD.

“Although the precise mechanism remains unclear, it has been postulated that photobiomodulation acts through oxidative metabolism and transcription factor stimulation,” Dr. Hordinsky said in a presentation at Skin Disease Education Foundation’s Women’s & Pediatric Dermatology Seminar.

Dr. Maria Hordinsky

She referred to one trial, which found that men with androgenetic alopecia who used the HairMax Lasercomb showed an increase in mean hair density at 26 weeks of daily use, compared with a group that used a sham device.

Photobiomodulation devices use either laser light or light-emitting diodes. Comparing the two types is a challenge, and the question of which is more effective remains unanswered, Dr. Hordinsky said.

Other issues to be addressed in future research include finding the optimal wavelength to use for different indications for light-based treatments, determining whether pulse or continuous wave is more effective, and evaluating the potential for systemic side effects of these therapies, she noted.

No treatment for alopecia areata is currently approved by the Food and Drug Administration, but factors to consider when choosing a treatment include the patient’s age, location and extent of hair loss, and the presence of other medical problems, as well as a scalp biopsy report with information on the hair cycle and inflammation. Patients and/or their parents should understand the risks and benefits associated with various treatments to make an informed decision, Dr. Hordinsky said.

Patients and their families “have heard the ‘buzz’ about potential new treatments for alopecia areata, and the discussion needs to include a conversation about ongoing and future clinical research opportunities, as well as off-label use of Janus kinase inhibitors,” particularly oral tofacitinib, she said.

Approximately two-thirds of patients in recent studies of oral tofacitinib have had clinically acceptable hair regrowth after 6 months, Dr. Hordinsky said. Ruxolitinib is also being studied. However, “until clinical research studies are completed, there will be ongoing debate regarding the risks and benefits, cost, and sustainability” of JAK inhibitors or other new treatments, she said.

Dr. Hordinsky disclosed that she is a consultant for companies including Procter & Gamble and Concert, and has received grant/research support from Incyte, Allergan, and the National Alopecia Areata Foundation.

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