Case Report: Managing Male Hair Loss and Acne Scarring in a 33-Year-Old Patient
At our dermatology clinic in Houston and Katy, Texas, we regularly evaluate men experiencing hair loss and cosmetic skin concerns. This case report discusses a 33-year-old male patient with a history of androgenetic alopecia, telogen effluvium, and acne scarring.
Patient Presentation
The patient reported longstanding generalized hair loss, moderate in severity and gradual in onset. He denied scalp pain, itching, or flaking. He has been under the care of another physician and is currently taking a compounded regimen of:
Oral minoxidil (5 mg)
Finasteride (1.1 mg)
Dutasteride (0.1 mg)
He reported no side effects from these medications and described his hair as stable.
The patient also has a history of telogen effluvium, related to nutrient absorption issues following a celiac disease diagnosis. Since eliminating gluten from his diet and supplementing with zinc and iron, his shedding has improved significantly.
Clinical Examination
On exam, the patient showed signs of:
Male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia), with diffuse thinning across the scalp and patterned recession.
A history of telogen effluvium, though shedding has stabilized.
Pitted acne scars on the face, which the patient sought cosmetic advice for.
Treatment Counseling
Androgenetic Alopecia
We reviewed the nature of male pattern hair loss, emphasizing that it is genetically determined and slowly progressive, often involving the vertex and frontotemporal regions. Current therapies include:
Oral or topical minoxidil
Finasteride or dutasteride
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy
Low-level laser therapy
Hair transplantation for advanced cases
The patient was advised to continue his current regimen, as he has had stable results without adverse effects.
Telogen Effluvium
We explained that telogen effluvium often resolves once the underlying trigger is addressed. In this case, celiac disease management and nutritional supplementation have been effective.
Cosmetic Consultation for Acne Scarring
The patient expressed interest in improving pitted acne scars. We discussed treatment options, including:
Phenol peel ($500)
CO2 laser resurfacing
Combination therapy (Phenol + CO2)
Fillers or Fraxel laser (for volume and texture improvement)
Referral options for cosmetic procedures with specialists were provided.
Takeaway for Patients in Houston & Katy
This case highlights how male hair loss often has multiple contributing factors, including androgenetic alopecia and telogen effluvium. Successful management requires addressing both genetic and systemic health issues. Additionally, men frequently seek treatment for acne scars, which can be effectively managed with advanced cosmetic dermatology procedures.
At our Houston and Katy clinics, we provide comprehensive care for male hair loss, nutritional hair shedding, and skin resurfacing treatments tailored to each patient’s goals.
