Hair loss treatments are usually met with scepticism and for good reason. The online marketplace is awash with scams and unsubstantiated claims. One of the reasons it can be hard to find credible products is the variability of results that any given product may yield.
Hair loss is the result of complex genetic and environmental processes so there is no one-size-fits-all solution.
The only way to see if a product works for you is to experiment and the safest way to do that is to try out products that do not have nasty side effects.
Fortunately, there are a number of natural products that are stripped of chemicals.
What’s more, there is some encouraging evidence to support their use for hair loss.
One that has shown promise is epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) extract.
EGCG is a unique plant compound that’s commonly found in green tea.
Research has found that the green tea-derived compound can support healthy hair growth and regrowth.
In one small study, researchers added topical green tea-derived EGCG extract to the scalps of three participants with alopecia.
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After four days, the participants experienced significant increases in hair growth activity.
EGCG appears to increase hair growth by stimulating hair follicles and preventing damage to skin and hair cells.
What’s more, in a hair loss study in mice, researchers found that 33 percent of the animals that consumed green tea extract experienced hair regrowth after six months, while no mice in the control group experienced improvements.
While it not understood exactly what causes his effect, research suggests it may be attributed to the compound’s ability to stimulate blood flow.
In a small study in 15 participants, researchers found that consuming supplements containing green tea extract for 12 weeks increased skin blood flow and oxygen delivery by 29 percent, compared with the control group.
Conventional treatments
Finasteride and minoxidil are the main treatments for male pattern baldness.
According to the NHS, minoxidil can also be used to treat female pattern baldness but women shouldn’t use finasteride.
These treatments also come with a number of drawbacks to consider beforehand.
The NHS says:
- They don’t work for everyone
- They only work for as long as they’re used
- Aren’t available on the NHS
- Can be expensive.
Some wigs are available on the NHS, but you may have to pay unless you qualify for financial help.
While you decide on the best treatment for you, your GP may be able to help you get some counselling, notes the NHS.
“Losing hair can be upsetting. For many people, hair is an important part of who they are,” it adds.
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