What Is Clascoterone (Breezula)?
Clascoterone is a novel topical anti-androgen designed to block androgen receptors locally without altering systemic hormone levels. This targeted mechanism differentiates it from traditional hormonal therapies.
By inhibiting the action of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) at the skin level, clascoterone helps prevent follicular miniaturization in hair loss and reduces excessive sebum production in acne.
Its localized action represents a major advancement in dermatology, aligning with the future of precision-based and personalized skin treatments.
How Does Clascoterone Work in Hair Loss?
Androgenetic alopecia results from genetic sensitivity of hair follicles to androgens. Clascoterone binds locally to androgen receptors, preventing DHT from exerting its effects.
This slows follicular miniaturization, prolongs the anagen phase, and helps preserve hair shaft thickness without altering systemic hormone levels.
Its localized action makes it particularly appealing for patients seeking effective treatment with reduced systemic risk.
The Role of Clascoterone in Acne Treatment
Androgens play a critical role in acne by stimulating sebum production. Clascoterone suppresses androgen signaling in sebaceous glands, reducing oil secretion.
This leads to fewer clogged pores, decreased inflammation, and overall improvement in acne severity.
Its topical nature allows for long-term use with minimal systemic exposure.
Clascoterone vs Finasteride
Unlike finasteride, which reduces systemic DHT levels, clascoterone acts locally at the skin level.
This localized mechanism significantly reduces the risk of systemic side effects.
As a result, patient adherence and long-term tolerability are improved.
Is Clascoterone Safe?
Clinical trials demonstrate that clascoterone is generally well tolerated.
Reported side effects are mostly mild and localized to the application site.
No significant systemic hormonal changes have been observed.
Who Is Clascoterone Suitable For?
Clascoterone is suitable for individuals with androgen-dependent hair loss or acne.
It is particularly useful for patients seeking non-systemic treatment options.
Medical supervision is recommended.
Clascoterone in Combination Therapies
Clascoterone can be combined with agents like minoxidil or retinoids.
Combination therapy may enhance treatment outcomes.
This approach is increasingly common in modern dermatology.
What Do Scientific Studies Say?
Phase III trials support both efficacy and safety.
FDA approval for acne marks a major milestone.
Research in hair loss is ongoing.
Where Will Clascoterone Be Positioned in the Future?
Localized hormone modulation represents the future of dermatology.
Clascoterone is a pioneer in this transformation.
It paves the way for personalized treatment strategies.
What Does Clascoterone Teach Us?
Clascoterone demonstrates the power of targeted therapy.
Biological control without systemic disruption is achievable.
This reflects the evolution of modern medicine.
Visiting Researcher&Lecturer - University College London, Mechanical Engineering and Faculty of Medicine, UK
Visiting Lecturer - University of Aveiro, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Portugal
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Hebert, A. A., et al.
Clascoterone cream 1% for the treatment of acne vulgaris: A randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled study.
Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2020. -
Eichenfield, L. F., et al.
Topical antiandrogens in dermatology: Emerging therapies and clinical implications.
Dermatologic Therapy, 2021. -
Trüeb, R. M.
Molecular mechanisms of androgenetic alopecia.
Experimental Gerontology, 2002. -
Zouboulis, C. C., et al.
The role of hormones in acne pathogenesis.
Dermato-Endocrinology, 2016. -
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
FDA approval of clascoterone (Winlevi®) for acne vulgaris.
https://www.fda.gov -
Del Rosso, J. Q.
The clinical relevance of topical androgen receptor inhibition in acne management.
Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2021. -
Blume-Peytavi, U., et al.
Hair follicle biology and androgen signaling.
British Journal of Dermatology, 2011. -
World Health Organization (WHO).
Skin health and dermatological treatments: Evidence-based approaches.
https://www.who.int