This year has been a particularly exciting and promising year in connection with hair loss research. A number of well-respected companies and researchers have made remarkable progress in developing even more effective ways to treat hair loss.
Hair Restoration Laboratories is constantly staying abreast of these developments to make sure that its Hair Restore products contain the most advanced ingredients and technologies available to prevent hair loss and promote the of stronger, thicker and healthier hair for both men and women.
Here, we want to provide you a summary of the most recent and promising research to develop more effective ways to treat hair loss.
Tens of millions of people worldwide are affected by hair loss. Since the dawn of time, mankind has searched for hair loss cures. For example, there are accounts of ancient Egypt doctors formulating spells and concoctions intended to cure hair loss.
Hair loss shows no favoritism or exemption to anyone as it afflicts people of all ages, from every walk of life, regardless of wealth, profession or popularity. While some individuals learn to embrace hair loss or are little fazed by it, others will experience a significant dip in self-esteem and confidence.
In more recent times, dermatologists and scientists have researched methods for hair and hair loss prevention. There is a wide range of factors that impact hair loss including stress, aging, changes in hormones and genetic factors so, unfortunately, finding a 100% guaranteed cure is likely still some time away. However, many are dedicated to finding a solution and below is a list of some of the notable hair loss research and developments that have been reported in recent months.
Genes Might Hold The Key to Solving Hair Loss
Have you ever stopped to consider why there are certain areas on the body that are void of hair: specifically, the palms of the hands and soles of the feet? One of the latest research developments for addressing hair revolves around the gene Dkk2 (Dickkopf-related protein 2) found in these areas of the body. The Dkk2 gene blocks the a protein known as Wnt/Beta-Catenin (WNT).
Scientists at Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia conducted tests on mice because, like humans, they too have the absence of hair in certain areas. The research involved genetically removing the Dkk2 gene from the mice and, in doing so, hair started to grow on the previously bald body parts. Without the protein inhibitor, Dkk2, the WNT was able to do its job and prompt hair.
To further test the effects of Dkk2 on WNT, the plantar skin (hairless skin) of rabbits was tested, which revealed lower levels of Dkk2, as opposed to that of mice. As research continues, men and women experiencing pattern baldness, Dkk2 levels are being compared. Additionally, it may provide answers to skin wounds remaining hairless after certain injuries.
Osteoporosis Drug May Prevent Hair Loss
A study released in May 2018 revealed that a drug routinely used in the treatment of osteoporosis might help fight hair loss.
The drug that is prescribed to osteoporosis sufferers produces the side effect of hair because it inhibits a protein found in the body known as SFRP1, which stops hair under certain conditions. For instance, typically scars don’t produce hair, and the reason is the SFRP1 protein.
Scientists at the University of Manchester’s Centre for Dermatology Research conducted lab tests on 40 male patients, who provided scalp samples and when the drug was applied, hair follicles regrew.
Dr. Edidiong Kaminska, a dermatologist at the American Academy of Dermatology in Chicago found the research intriguing. However, it is only in the preliminary lab testing stages so knowing true results is still a ways out.
Peptide Formula Injection
A Swedish company has been testing a peptide formula that stimulates hair. The studies began in 2016 to test for toxicity and major side effects. Then, in 2017, a clinical trial was conducted on healthy humans, with more than 70% showing an increase in hair. Following the success of that trial, in 2018, studies were conducted at the Charite Hospital in Berlin. That study focused on participants specifically suffering from alopecia, who received injections directly into the scalp over the course of three months.
The company will continue research and work on formulating a topical solution of the peptide formula, and depending on its success, the product may be available to the public by 2021.
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Dr. David Weinstein, a neuroscientist, who specializes in nerve regeneration and spinal injuries, began losing his own hair, which motivated him to find a cure. He developed a topical formula for hair and tested it on himself; and he states that within a matter of weeks he had hair. The formula is made-up of three small molecule drugs that work synergistically to promote hair. The formula is being tested in clinical trials.
Hair Cloning
Currently, hair transplant surgery involves transplanting hair from the back of the scalp. However, researchers are exploring the possibilities of stem cell production, AKA hair cloning. The stem cell process would no longer require hairs to be transplanted, but new hair follicles would be produced in a lab. It would require a skin sample in which hair follicles would be harvested. Research is underway, and the process may become available in the next couple of years.
DNA Testing
DNA testing is gaining popularity regarding family history, and while it doesn’t help with hair loss, it will provide insight as to the predisposition of hair loss due to genetics. The results of the current DNA-testing options are still fuzzy, but as they become more readily available, such details may be possible by 2020. Besides, access to information that will enable people to prepare could be a good thing.
No 100% Cure Yet
The research being conducted to find a cure for hair loss is extraordinary, and the advancements are indeed interesting. But for the most part, testing is extremely preliminary, with very few having conclusive long-term results. Additionally, the available options that address hair, including minoxidil (a vasodilator), hair transplant surgery and corticosteroid injections, are all hit or miss, painful, and/or rather pricey, with hair transplants starting at $10,000.
Even with multiple studies underway and billions of dollars spent each year, the research development is still extremely preliminary.
How to Deal with Hair Loss Now
If you have any concerns about hair loss, the best option is to take action now.
* Step One: Determine the Cause
Hair loss can be caused by stress, unhealthy eating habits, hormonal imbalance and even hair styling techniques. If you’re unsure of the cause, seek professional advice.
* Step Two: Know Your Options
It is much easier to slow down hair loss than dealing with major. In addition to surgical hair transplants, there are prescribed formulas and medications. Other choices include shampoos and conditioners that have shown promising results.
* Step Three: Take Charge
Although it is not pleasant, hair loss is common. In the United States alone, 320 million Americans suffer from it in varying stages. You’re not alone and in fact there are support groups. Never let hair loss strip you of your self-confidence. Instead, take charge and make changes where you can.
* Invest in hair care products specially formulated to support hair and reduce thinning.
If you begin to notice your hair falling out, don’t delay determining the cause.
