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Is it possible to get bald spots with Doxycycline?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I was taking Doxycycline for three months. After I got a haircut in the third month, I noticed that I had two bald patches. I got a haircut again today, and the same problem occurred. I am almost positive that the problem is alopecia areata, and I also have the symptom of nail dystrophy (it appeared around two weeks ago). Do you think Doxycycline caused this issue? How can AA be treated, and how long should I expect my bald spots to have normal thickness again?

Thanks.
Answered by Dr. Rabia Anjum

Education:

FCPS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Rabia Anjum is a Dermatologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair, and nail disorders. She provides advanced care in areas such as acne management, eczema, psoriasis, pigmentation disorders, hair loss, and cosmetic dermatology, including skin rejuvenation and anti-aging treatments.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Doxycycline is a Tetracycline antibiotic that can cause photosensitivity and photo-onycholysis (nail dystrophy), but alopecia areata is not linked with this medication. On the other hand, nail problems are common with alopecia areata.

Apply steroid preparation over bald patches. Oral steroids may be required in the future. Maintain the hygiene of the area, wash with soap and water, and use a vitamin-containing shampoo preparation.

I hope this information will help you.

Thanks.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At April 2, 2019
Reviewed At January 16, 2026

Education:

FCPS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Rabia Anjum is a Dermatologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair, and nail disorders. She provides advanced care in areas such as acne management, eczema, psoriasis, pigmentation disorders, hair loss, and cosmetic dermatology, including skin rejuvenation and anti-aging treatments.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality

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Dr. Rabia Anjum

Dermatology

Consult this doctor

Education:

FCPS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Rabia Anjum is a Dermatologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair, and nail disorders. She provides advanced care in areas such as acne management, eczema, psoriasis, pigmentation disorders, hair loss, and cosmetic dermatology, including skin rejuvenation and anti-aging treatments.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality
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