Topical Steroids and Male Pattern Baldness?

Hi Dr. Rassman,

It’s well known that steroids injected into the human system can exacerbate MPB. But what about topical steroids (prescribed by a dermatologist) applied to the skin? In my case, to an area just above the eyebrows (so not even close to the scalp area)?

(I wish I could tell you the name of the steroid but my dermatologist appointment won’t be till Tuesday – I’m just ANTICIPATING what the derm will prescribe).

Thanks!

To answer this, I would have to know why you are using topical steroids and for what period of time you expect to use them. For example, when topical steroids are used for psoriasis and applied in short bursts over a three time application, the treatment works well and will not cause acceleration of your MPB.