Innovative Solutions for Hair Loss: From Sugar Gels to Hay Fever Pills and Vitamin D Creams

Hair loss has become a significant market, with men and women in the UK spending approximately £150 million annually on over-the-counter treatments. As many as 80% of men and 40% of women over the age of 50 experience some form of hair loss, often attributed to factors like declining estrogen levels during menopause, which impacts hair growth. Despite extensive research over the years, a definitive cure for hair loss remains elusive.

Current treatments can help stabilize hair loss and marginally enhance hair thickness, but their effectiveness is often limited, and side effects can be severe. For instance, about one-third of users of Regaine, a minoxidil-based foam or lotion designed to increase blood flow to hair follicles, report minimal results. Additionally, roughly 5% of users experience side effects such as rapid heartbeat, swollen feet, and stomach discomfort.

While caffeine shampoos are popular, their effectiveness is disputed, despite British consumers purchasing over a million bottles annually. Some research suggests that caffeine may inhibit the effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT)—a hormone linked to hair loss—while other studies indicate little to no improvement.

Stronger hair loss medications, like Propecia (finasteride), are available through private prescriptions but not through the NHS. Propecia has been shown to induce new hair growth in up to 80% of men but carries the risk of erectile dysfunction for about 3% of users. Consequently, many men in the UK opt for hair transplants in countries like Turkey, where costs are significantly lower.

Amidst these existing treatments, researchers are investigating innovative and potentially safer options for addressing hair loss. Here are some promising new developments in the field:

Sugar Gel Stimulates Hair Growth

Recent research from Sheffield University has identified a naturally occurring sugar, 2-deoxy-D-ribose, as a possible hair growth stimulant when used in a gel. Initially studied for its wound-healing properties, it was observed in mouse trials that the sugar gel could promote hair growth by increasing blood vessel formation that supplies oxygen to tissues, including hair follicles. This treatment shows promise for androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male pattern baldness.

New Lotion with Reduced Side Effects

A new topical treatment in trials in the US, called Breezula, offers a potential alternative to oral medications like finasteride. Containing clascoterone—an ingredient also used in acne treatments—this lotion is applied once or twice daily and has shown promise in increasing hair shaft diameter and follicle count in initial trials. Dr. Christos Tziotzios, a consultant dermatologist, notes that clascoterone could effectively block the actions of DHT, pending further large-scale trials.

Hay Fever Pills as a Hair Loss Treatment

Recent studies suggest that certain antihistamines, particularly cetirizine, may also help combat hair loss. Cetirizine, which blocks histamine release, has been shown to effectively treat genetic hair loss when applied to the scalp. In a study involving 33 men, it was found to be as effective as Regaine, with fewer side effects. While some anecdotal evidence supports the use of antihistamines for hair loss, Dr. Tziotzios emphasizes the need for more research before recommending this approach.

Vitamin D Cream for Hair Regrowth

Vitamin D deficiency is linked to thinning hair, but a clinical trial at Sohag University in Egypt is investigating whether a cream containing vitamin D can reverse hair loss in women, even if they aren’t deficient. While animal studies suggest vitamin D may counteract the effects of DHT, Dr. David Fenton cautions that the cream’s effectiveness may be limited for those who are not vitamin D deficient.

Drug Originally for Arthritis Approved for Hair Loss

Ritlecitinib, a drug initially developed for rheumatoid arthritis, has recently been approved for alopecia areata, a condition characterized by sudden bald patches. This Janus Kinase (JAK) inhibitor has shown promising results in trials, prompting new hair growth in patients with alopecia areata. However, Dr. Fenton notes that while these drugs show potential, they can also cause significant side effects.

Stem Cell Treatments from Wharton’s Jelly

Researchers at a private clinic in New York are exploring the use of stem cells harvested from Wharton’s jelly—found in umbilical cords—as a treatment for genetic hair loss. Injections of these stem cells into hair follicles may stimulate hair regrowth, and the study’s results are anticipated in the coming year.

In summary, while the journey to find an effective cure for hair loss continues, innovative treatments are emerging that may provide hope for those affected.