FFA and Personal Care Product Use: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the relationship between frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA) and the use of cosmetic and personal care products. Analyzing data from 9 studies with 1,248 FFA patients and 1,459 controls, the study found significant positive associations between FFA and the use of facial sunscreen (OR 3.02) and facial moisturizer (OR 2.20), particularly in men for moisturizers (OR 5.07). No significant associations were found with other hair or facial products. The findings suggest that leave-on facial products, especially those with UV-protecting chemicals, may contribute to the development of FFA, indicating a potential environmental etiology.