Season 8, Episode 8: Exploring Topical Metformin for Treating CCCA

Welcome to the latest episode of the Evidence-Based Hair Podcast, hosted by dermatologist and hair loss specialist, Dr. Jeff Donovan. As the director of the Donovan Hair Academy, Dr. Donovan is committed to educating both the public and practitioners about hair loss through comprehensive training programs.

In this episode, Dr. Donovan dives into an intriguing study published in the International Journal of Dermatology, which examines the use of topical metformin 10% cream in treating Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia (CCCA). This scarring alopecia primarily affects Black women and is often underdiagnosed. The study highlights a case where topical metformin showed promise in hair regrowth for a patient unresponsive to traditional treatments.

Dr. Donovan discusses the potential of topical metformin as a second-line treatment option alongside oral metformin, PRP, and JAK inhibitors, while emphasizing the importance of first-line treatments such as steroid injections and topical steroids. He also addresses the challenges of compounding metformin in various formulations, which can affect its efficacy.

Stay tuned for next week's episode, where Dr. Donovan will explore new research on alopecia areata and dupilumab. Join us as we continue to unravel the complexities of hair loss and discover innovative treatments that could benefit patients worldwide.

 

STUDY REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE

 

Bárbara Vieira Granja et al. Treatment of central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia with topical metformin 10% cream: case report and literature review. Int J Dermatol . 2024 Jun 23. doi: 10.1111/ijd.17345. Online ahead of print