Serum based on plant extracts boosts hair growth in weeks

A serum aimed at combating hair loss has yielded encouraging outcomes in less than two months. This topical treatment, which incorporates plant extracts and proteins that stimulate cellular activity, improved hair density when compared to a placebo.

Androgenetic alopecia, or pattern baldness, impacts approximately 50% of men and 40% of women by the age of 50, to varying degrees. While some treatments, such as finasteride and minoxidil (commonly known as Rogaine), can be effective, their success is influenced by numerous factors, including genetic predisposition and the extent of hair loss.

Researchers are exploring innovative approaches to hair regrowth, including stem cell therapies, enhancing fibroblasts (cells that play a key role in the formation of connective tissue), and medications that activate dormant hair follicles.

In search of new alternatives, a team at Schweitzer Biotech Company in Taiwan developed a serum featuring caffeine – a popular ingredient in shampoos designed to prevent hair loss – along with two growth-stimulating proteins: insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and fibroblast growth factor-7 (FGF-7), both of which have shown potential for aiding hair follicle regeneration. The formula also includes extracts from Centella asiatica, a tropical plant known for its benefits in skincare, which is thought to support hair follicle wellness.

To evaluate its effectiveness, an international research team enlisted 60 adults aged 18 to 60 who did not necessarily experience significant hair loss. Participants were divided into five groups: the first received a placebo serum devoid of active ingredients, while the second was given a base formulation containing 0.1% caffeine and vitamin B5, known for its moisturizing properties. The remaining three groups were given the base formulation with increasing ingredients; the third received IGF-1 and FGF-7, the fourth included C. asiatica extracts, and the fifth received all components combined.

Participants were instructed to apply 1 milliliter of the serum to their scalp every evening for a duration of 56 days. Across various measured outcomes—such as hair density, strand thickness, and reduction in hair loss—improvements were observed from the first group to the fifth. The most remarkable improvement in hair density was nearly 25% in the fifth group, which was almost double the increase seen in the placebo group.

The team of researchers speculated that C. asiatica extracts may enhance hair root strength or improve blood circulation around hair follicles. “This plant has been historically utilized for anti-aging and restorative treatments, as well as anti-inflammatory purposes,” stated Christos Tziotzios from King’s College London. “It is often considered a miracle plant. Other components of the study like IGF-1 and FGF-7 have more established evidence, showing significant effects on hair cycling.”

The researchers, along with Tziotzios, express caution regarding the size of the study, indicating that further investigations with larger and more extensive trials are necessary before treatments based on this formulation can be made widely available. “This does not diminish its potential significance, but more exploration is certainly required,” stated Tziotzios. “As we enhance our understanding of the complex molecular processes behind hair loss and hair biology, we edge closer to groundbreaking treatment options.”