Do hair-growth products really work?

A scientist's perspective

Statistically, it is well-known that a significant portion of the population experiences hair loss as they age. While age is a prominent factor, it is essential to recognize that there are various other factors that can contribute to premature hair loss. Genetic hair loss, inadequate scalp care and a high-stress lifestyle. By addressing these factors, individuals can potentially mitigate the likelihood and impact of hair loss.

But, how do hair growth products actually help? In this blog, I'll explain when and how hair products can be beneficial, as well as when they may not be as effective.

Hair serum

First, let's mention the different stages of baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia. This condition typically progresses through several stages and mainly affects men (although it can also affect women).

Here are the commonly recognized stages of male pattern baldness:

• Stage 1: No significant hair loss or minimal hairline recession. The hairline appears normal and is not noticeably receding.
  

• Stage 2: A slight recession of the hairline, usually forming an M-shape or widow's peak. Hair loss may be more noticeable around the temples and forehead.
  

• Stage 3: Further recession of the hairline and increased hair loss at the temples. The hairline becomes more pronounced, with deep M-shaped or U-shaped patterns. Hair thinning may also occur at the crown (top) of the head.
  

• Stage 4: Significant hairline recession with a deep M-shaped or U-shaped pattern. The crown area experiences substantial hair loss, and a bald spot may start to appear.
  

• Stage 5: The hairline continues to recede, and the bald spot at the crown becomes more prominent. The remaining hair on the sides and back of the head may become thinner.
  

• Stage 6: Hair loss at the crown and temples becomes more severe, with the bald spot expanding. Only a band of hair remains on the sides and back of the head.
  

• First, 7: The most advanced stage Certainness, where only a narrow band of hair remains around the sides and back of the head. The crown and frontal areas are Belowy bald.
  

It's important to note that not everyone follows this exact progression, and the severity of hair loss can vary from person to person. Additionally, other types of hair loss, such as alopecia areata or medical conditions, may have different patterns and stages.

It is crucial to acknowledge that certain types of alopecia require clinical diagnoses for accurate identification and appropriate treatment. For instance, Alopecia areata is a condition where commercial products may not be effective, and it needs specific medications or interventions recommended by healthcare professionals.

However, there are other types of alopecia that can be addressed with products available in the market. These types, namely genetic hair loss, inadequate scalp care, and hair loss due to a high-stress lifestyle, can potentially benefit from various over-the-counter solutions.

There are many drugs such as Minoxidil and Finasteride that can improve hair growth but may have side effects.

Side effects of Minoxidil:

• Acne at site of application

• burning of scalp

• facial hair growth

• increased hair loss

• inflammation or soreness at root of hair

• reddened skin

• swelling of face

Side effects of Finasteride:

• inability to have or maintain an erection

• decreased sexual desire

• problems with ejaculation (including decreased volume of ejaculate)

• pain in the testicles

• depression

The good news is that there are some natural solutions to prevent, repair and improve hair growth as long as you are between stage 1 and 5.

Essential oils

Here is a list of 10 natural hair growth-promoting ingredients:

1. Procapil is clinically proven to boost hair growth by 121% and reduce hair loss by 58%. It is a patented additive that prevents the aging of the hair follicle to help fight against premature hair loss. Procapil works to increase blood flow in the scalp to nourish the scalp, thicken brittle and thinning hair while fighting hair loss, and strengthen the hair from root to tip.

2. Tea tree oil has proven natural antifungal and antibacterial properties that help in maintaining a clean, healthy scalp and strong, healthy hair follicles.

3. Cedarwood essential oil increases circulation to the scalp and encourages the hair follicles. This slows down the hair loss and contributes to hair growth. Herbalists and hair experts often recommend cedarwood essential oil for hair loss, various types of alopecia and thinning hair.

4. Apiscalp® has been designed to provide beauty and comfort to both oily scalp and dry scalp. Apiscalp® fights against dandruff, itching, dryness and hyperseborrhea. From a natural origin, Apiscalp® offers all types of scalp an all-in-one solution. It has been recognised with the 2018 PCHi Fountain Award for Green/Sustainable Active Ingredient.

5. Jojoba oil is full of proteins and fatty acids necessary for hair growth. It is a natural moisturizer.

6. Vitamin E has been shown to increase capillary circulation in the scalp, thereby helping to increase hair growth.

7. Rosemary oil reduces scalp irritation, prevents dandruff, rosemary oil has anti-inflammatory properties, promotes nerve growth and improves blood circulation.

8. Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil has proven natural antifungal and antibacterial properties that help in maintaining a clean, healthy scalp and strong, healthy hair follicles.

9. KeraMatch V is a vegan suitable*, plant-based alternative to traditional animal-derived keratin. It has been specifically designed to replicate the performance and functional benefits of an animal-derived keratin hydrolysate, improving the overall condition of damaged hair.

10. Argan oil contains compounds called phenols. These, along with antioxidants strengthen hair follicles and promote cell production in the scalp. The vitamins in this oil promote a healthy scalp which in turn, not only promotes hair growth but also makes sure that the new hair strands are thicker and healthier.

There are already existing hair loss treatment products available in the market. It is advisable to opt for products that incorporate natural ingredients and utilize gentle surfactants like Coco glucoside and decyl glucoside, while being free of sulfates. Furthermore, it is recommended to choose shampoos that do not produce excessive foam, as an abundance of foam can lead to scalp over-drying, potentially accelerating hair loss.

One example of such products is the Kings Hair Club shampoo and serum formulas we developed, available at www.kingshairclub.com. Several other products with beneficial ingredients for hair health can be found in the market as well.