Benzoyl Peroxide and Hair Loss
Is it possible that a particular acne treatment (benzoyl peroxide) can cause hair loss at the temples and receding of the hair line if applied too close or on to the hair? This has occured over the last 6-8 months and i’m not sure whether the cause is male pattern baldness or the acne medication.
Benzoyl peroxide is a weak acid sometimes used for acne. It can irritate the skin, but it should not cause hair loss since the effects are probably superficial. The most common cause of hair loss in men is genetic balding and a good doctor should be able to point to the diagnosis.
Benzoyl Peroxide can cause small amounts of hair loss if applied frequently and heavily on a specific patch of skin. This only occurs in certain situations, and generally only effects people with oily skin.