Dermatologic Care of Hair in Transgender Patients: A Systematic Review of Literature

Abstract

Transgender patients on masculinizing and feminizing hormonal therapy undergo myriad physical and psychologic changes. Dermatologists are uniquely qualified to guide patients in the gender-affirming process, especially as it relates to hair. Given the paucity of literature guiding dermatologists in this process, a systematic review was performed to better understand the physiologic changes of hair in patients on masculinizing and feminizing hormonal therapy as well as the variety of treatment options that exist to help transgender patients to attain their desired hair growth pattern. This review reports findings and treatment options supported by the performed literature review as well as treatment recommendations based on the authors’ own experiences treating this unique patient population.