Minoxidil is a widely utilized medication for various hair conditions, such as androgenic alopecia. The current literature lacks an original study that reports the possibility of this medication causing a well-noticed side effect, hair discoloration, among the treated patients. We conducted an observational study utilizing two face-validated questionnaires that experts, in dermatology, revised to assess the possibility of Minoxidil in inducing hair discoloration. This study was done in Saudi Arabia, and the data collection spanned October and November 2022. The first questionnaire was targeting the population, while the second was targeting practicing dermatologists. In survey 1, of 453 included patients, 56.7% of the participants were between the ages of 18-24, most of whom were females. Interestingly, 26% (n=118) noticed greying of hair and 14.8% (n=67) noticed other hair color changes. The hair discoloration was more prevalently noticed among the groups who used Minoxidil for a longer duration and among those with a family history of hair greying, with a p-value of 0.0001 for each group. Survey 2 was targeting dermatologists and was answered by 57 participants. Almost 60% of the physicians have ten years or more experience in Dermatology. 42.1% of the dermatologists noticed greying of hair on their patients after using Minoxidil. 17.5% of the physicians think Minoxidil caused hair greying. This observational study analyzed the data of more than 400 patients to assess the possibility of Minoxidil inducing hair discoloration; based on the data presented, we hypothesize that Minoxidil could be classified as a drug that potentially induces hair discoloration with more extended periods of usage and among those who have familial history of hair greying. Further confirmatory data are warranted to support such statement.

Background: Dermatology in healthcare is changed by technological advancements, patient awareness, and developing healthcare needs. In Saudi Arabia, choosing a dermatologist is influenced by various factors, including patient satisfaction, digital technology use, and the physician’s characteristics and qualities. Purpose: The major aim of this research was to evaluate factors influencing patients’ choice of dermatologists in Saudi Arabia, including past experiences, reputation, social media influence, and access to care. Methods: A comprehensive national survey was conducted in Saudi Arabia. The research included 1038 participants using stratified sampling, predominantly from the 18–25 age group (67.1%). The distribution covered all regions of Saudi Arabia, with a larger portion from the Central and Western regions. The survey included quantitative and qualitative questions, assessing factors such as previous experiences with dermatologists, the importance of physician reputation, the role of digital platforms, and access to care. The data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Studies (SPSS 22; IBM Corp., New York, NY, USA), with continuous variables expressed as mean ± standard deviation and categorical variables as percentages. Results: Our study highlighted a strong preference for dermatologists based on previous positive experiences (95.3%) and reputable dermatologists (95.2%). Factors like social media presence were less influential. Demographics matter, with younger and female participants favoring female doctors. The education level affects preference factors like ads, and the convenience of their location holds minimal sway. Recommendations from peers and healthcare professionals carry significant weight in the decision. Conclusions: Positive patient experiences and professional reputation suggest that these are the factors that affect patients’ selection of a dermatologist the most. The research findings indicated that while digital platforms are important for information dissemination, they play a minimal role in the actual selection process. The findings can guide dermatologists and healthcare policymakers in enhancing patient-centered care and adapting to evolving patient preferences in the digital age.

A methodical approach to health services called “quality of care” places an emphasis on both interpersonal and technical competence in the delivery of medical care. One of the key elements of high-quality care is the client's or patient's satisfaction, which includes treating them with respect, being aware of their needs, and meeting those needs. Dermatologists are forced to expand service availability and respond to patients' needs and desires as required through satisfaction surveys as a result of an increase in the number of insured patients and demand for services. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Saudi Arabia to measure patient satisfaction with the medical care provided to patients in dermatology clinics affiliated with the government and private hospitals by recording the responses received from a questionnaire assessing the doctor’s attitude, such as whether the dermatologist was punctual and had the patient’s medical records. The modified Arabic language digitally administered questionnaire with 17 closed-ended items was used to collect data from respondents. In total, 1002 patients, including 70.76% females and 29.24% males, participated in the study; 83.33% of patients visited a dermatology clinic of which 74.61% visited private clinics, and the disease had already developed in 64.55% of patients. A 5-point Likert scale with six statements was used to measure patient satisfaction with the visiting doctor. Overall, the mean score was very high (4.41 ± 0.92). According to the results of this study, respect for patients’ wishes, emotional support, and physical comfort appear to be the most crucial factors in determining patient happiness. Healthcare systems should strive to achieve a balance in services that not only offer clinically effective care but are also perceived by the patients as acceptable and beneficial. This is true regardless of demographic status.