Abstract:
Although most doctors use topical minoxidil for the treatment of idiopathic eyebrow
hypotrichosis, there has never been a study that demonstrates the efficacy of topical minoxidil for eyebrow enhancement compared to placebo.
Objective: To determine the efficacy and safety of 2% minoxidil lotion in eyebrow
enhancement compared to placebo.
Materials and Methods: Thirty-nine participants (men and women, aged 20-40 years old) who had idiopathic eyebrow hypotrichosis or wanted to enhance their eyebrows were included. Each subject was randomized on side of eyebrow whether he/she applied 2 % minoxidil lotion on one side of eyebrow and placebo on the other. Both drugs were applied twice a day for 16 weeks. Efficacy was evaluated by global photographic assessment, diameter, number of eyebrow, participants satisfaction and side effects.
Results: After 16 weeks, there were significantly superior in global photographic score,
diameter and number of eyebrow in 2% minoxidil lotion-treated side compared to placebo-treated side. (p < 0.001 in all 3 parameters) In addition, the participants were more significantly satisfied in 2% minoxidil over placebo (p < 0.001). Side effects of both topical drugs were not significantly different.They were found only mild temporary pruritus and dry skin in the treatment areas.
Conclusion: 2% minoxidil lotion was clearly superior to placebo in eyebrow enhancement
and was well tolerated by the participants in this trial. Further study should be done with more participants.