DIPHENYLCYCLOPROPENONE – A NEW DRUG TO TREAT ALOPECIA

DPCP is a new drug that is reported to be a cure to hair loss due to alopecia areata. DPCP or diphenylcyclopropenone is a medication under topical sanitisers , it’s a clear solution that is applied to the scalp using a large cotton bud.

DPCP works by creating an allergic reaction and lures the immune system away from the hair follicles. This “diversion” allows the hair follicles to rejuvenate themselves therefore producing new hair growth. A tolerable itching sensation is a sign that DPCP is working. It is crucial that only a doctor or a trained nurse should apply this drug to minimise unwanted reactions. The usual side effects of DPCP are dry flaking skin, severe eczema, blistering, lightening or darkening of the treated skin and enlarged lymph nodes. These side effects occur differently from person to person and are death with individually.

Some patients find hair growth in just three months from the first treatment. In others, it make take half a year to a year to find new hair growth but usually if patients do not show any new hair regrowth after the twelve month then the patient may well not respond well to this form of treatment.

Amazingly, DPCP is not a hair growth stimulant; it simply stops the immune system from attacking the hair follicles. To make hair grow faster it is advisable to use a hair growth stimulant. Remember that DPCP is a chemical that is already irritating the scalp, so an herbal based hair growth stimulant like Nisim Shampoo would do best to prevent any additional irritations.

Although DPCP is found to be effective in treating hair loss due to alopecia aerata, it is still an experimental drug. No clinical studies have been made concerning its safety on chronic use, use during pregnancy, use in children and many others.