February 9 2009, 11:31 am PT | Posted in: Drugs
From the press release:
Preliminary findings have shown that BOTOX® injections into the scalp may effectively delay hair loss and even prevent baldness.
No published, peer-reviewed articles back up any of their “preliminary findings” on Botox as a hair loss treatment (nor are any photos provided of their findings). I’m only posting this for those that might be interested in it. I’ll keep my opinion to myself for now, but just remember that the link doesn’t go to an actual article. It’s a press release… and it definitely reads as a big advertisement for some clinic that provides these expensive injections.
Paid advertisements (not an endorsement):
I found that very hard to believe botox can do that.I can already hear the jokes about hair being frozen in place. This is stretching credibility to put it mildly.
It is hard to understand how an agent (Botox) that blocks neuromuscular transmission (i.e. paralyzes muscles)has any effect on hair. Of course, as Dr Rassman alluded to, the physician in question has published nothing about his observation, provided no data, initially observed this phenomenon in one patient (a relative), but feels OK about advertising Botox for baldness treatments at his Beverly Hills clinic. Furher, the physician’s web site notes that the physician “has tested and refined the treatment over a period of three years with volunteer patients” (and is)”now confident in the effectiveness of the treatment and offering it to his patients.” Of course, one is curious why he has not submitted data from this completely novel approach to a peer-reviewed scientific journal if he has 3 years worth of findings. In my opinion, this sort of thing represents the seedy side of medicine. As a physician, I hope readers realize the greatness of a knowledgeable physician (Dr Rassman) who is both ethical and “evidence-based.”
Botox does help reduce hair loss especially for men. By using botox for the forehead, the area is more stable and relaxed i.e. viens aren’t popping out or high blood flow etc. affecting the front hairline. It slows things down in the forehead especially for men who had hair transplant. Not a doctor, just a patient. It is a fact. Three different surgeons mentioned that to me in three different countries. Each in their own way ofcourse, but bottom line yes, it maintains the front hair longer. Also works with scars, because once the skin doesn’t move the scar or scars in a botoxed area seem less visible. So it really a fact! I was on both sides, so I saw the difference (several times between treatments). Botox is worth the money. Do it once a year, not as recommended 3-6 months. Enjoy.