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Updated: Sep 13, 2026

Synthesis of Plant Phenol-derived Polymeric Dyes for Direct or Mordant-based Hair Dyeing
Published on: December 1, 2016
[Sodium valproate-induced kinky hair]
S Caneppele1, J Mazereeuw-Hautier, J L Bonafé
1Service de Dermatologie, Hôpital Rangueil, Toulouse.
Background:
We report a case of acquired progressive kinking hair, a rare pilar dysplasia. This is the first case induced by sodium valproate.
Case Report:
A 6-year-old girl, treated with valproate, observed a progressive change in the texture of her hair. They were kinky, lusterless, dry and, under light microscopy, exhibited an aspect of pseudo-pili torti.
Discussion:
This child had acquired progressive kinking hair syndrome most likely induced by valproate. Five other cases of valproate-induced pilar dysplasia have been reported but without clinical descriptions.
Conclusion:
We propose adding sodium valproate to the list of drugs susceptible of inducing kinky hair syndrome.
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