Hair growth is determined by stem cell niches, with different areas of the body having different growth periods. Understanding the biology of hair can lead to strategies for regrowing hair. Psychological states can impact hair growth and loss, and hair loss and graying can also impact psychological states. Mechanical approaches like scalp massage and microneedling can either cause hair loss or facilitate hair growth. Chemical approaches involve regulating hormones that control the pool of stem cells responsible for hair growth. The three phases of hair growth are the anagen phase, catagen phase, and telogen phase. Minoxidil can slow down hair loss by extending the anagen phase. Increasing blood flow to the scalp can promote hair growth. Microneedling, either alone or in combination with minoxidil, is a potential treatment for hair loss. Botox treatments can stimulate hair growth. Androgens play a role in hair loss, and treatments focus on inhibiting DHT or 5-alpha reductase. Topical caffeine can help offset hair loss. IGF-1 and insulin sensitivity are important for hair growth. Iron is crucial for stimulating hair growth. Saw palmetto can inhibit 5-alpha reductase and promote hair health. Ketoconazole shampoo can offset hair loss. Topical and oral finasteride can reduce DHT levels and promote hair growth. Post-Finasteride Syndrome is a condition where individuals experience severe symptoms after discontinuing finasteride. Dutasteride is a potent inhibitor of the 5α-Reductase enzyme. Combination treatments involving mechanical and chemical stimulation are effective for hair regrowth. Various ways to support the Huberman Lab podcast are mentioned.
Hair
Hair growth is determined by stem cell niches, with different areas of the body having different growth periods. Understanding the biology of hair can lead to strategies for regrowing hair. This video explains the science of healthy hair, hair loss, and regrowth, debunking common myths about balding and hair replacement. It covers hormone-related hair loss, stress and mechanical influences, and chemical and mechanical approaches to halt and reverse hair loss.
Psychological States & Hair
Hair loss can cause significant anxiety and psychological distress for many individuals. Stress and psychological well-being can impact the coloration and growth rates of hair. Conversely, as hair starts to thin or fall out, it can lead to intense anxiety or depression.
Key points:
- Approximately 50% of men and women experience noticeable hair loss by age 50, leading to anxiety and a desire to find ways to halt or reverse it.
- Hair loss typically occurs between the ages of 30 and 50, becoming visible around age 50.
- Psychological states can impact hair growth and loss, and hair loss and graying can also impact psychological states.
- Understanding the biological mechanisms of hair growth and loss can help explain the effectiveness and side effects of different treatments.
The science of healthy hair, hair loss, and regrowth is discussed in the video. Mechanical approaches like scalp massage and microneedling can either cause hair loss or facilitate hair growth. Chemical approaches involve regulating hormones that control the pool of stem cells responsible for hair growth.
Hair Anatomy & Stem Cells
Hair Anatomy & Stem Cells:
- Hair is made up of stem cells that have the ability to replicate and give rise to other cells.
- Certain organs, like hair follicles, maintain pockets of stem cells that allow for hair growth.
- Each hair is formed by a population of stem cells located in the hair root.
- Stem cells in the hair bulb give rise to the various cells that make up the hair.
- Hair is composed of proteins called keratin, which form the hair shaft.
- Melanin, produced by cells in the hair bulb, gives hair its color.
- Sebaceous glands near hair roots produce sebum, which waterproofs the skin and protects against infections.
- The arrector pili muscle contracts to make hairs stand up, trapping air and providing insulation.
- Understanding hair anatomy is important for replacing lost hair.
- Manipulations that increase blood flow to the scalp can slow down hair loss and extend hair growth, but should be combined with other effective treatments.
3 Phases of Hair Growth
The three phases of hair growth are the anagen phase, catagen phase, and telogen phase. Here are the key points:
- The anagen phase is the growth phase where stem cells in the hair bulb produce new hair cells.
- The duration of the anagen phase varies depending on the type of hair, ranging from 2 to 8 years.
- Eyebrow hairs have a shorter anagen phase compared to hairs on the head.
- Hair growth involves a conversation between stem cells, melanocytes, and the hair itself.
- The catagen phase is the breakdown phase where the hair recedes from the bulb region towards the surface.
- The telogen phase is when the stem cell population is inactive and the hair bulb pinches off.
- Certain types of hair, like scalp hair, can reenter the anagen phase and regrow if there are sufficient stem cells, oxygen, blood support, and hormones.
- Hormones, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT), play a crucial role in regulating the phases of hair growth.
- DHT can shorten the anagen phase and extend the catagen and telogen phases, leading to hair loss.
- Understanding these phases and the role of hormones is important for addressing hair loss and promoting hair regrowth.
Minoxidil & Blood Flow
Minoxidil, also known as ROGAINE, is a drug that increases blood flow to the scalp and other areas of the body. It can slow down hair loss by extending the anagen phase of hair growth. However, it is not effective for those who have already lost a significant amount of hair. Minoxidil can be taken orally or applied topically, but it is important to get the dosage right to avoid side effects. The recommended dosage ranges vary greatly, and it may require trial and error to find the correct dosage. Side effects can include swelling, headaches, and decreased dopamine activity.
Increase Blood Flow: Massage, Tadalafil, Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), Microneedling
Increasing blood flow to the scalp is crucial for hair growth and maintenance. Methods such as massaging the scalp, using red light therapy, or taking Minoxidil can temporarily increase blood flow. However, Minoxidil is more effective as it continuously increases blood flow. Other drug treatments that increase blood flow are being explored to improve hair growth and maintenance.
- Low-dose tadalafil, a drug used to treat prostate health, can increase blood flow to the scalp.
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections are controversial but widely accepted in certain circles for promoting nutrient delivery and supporting tissue health.
- Micro-needling stimulates hair growth by reactivating dormant stem cells and enhancing the effectiveness of hormone-based hair regrowth treatments.
- Increasing blood flow to the scalp can promote hair growth by delivering more oxygen and nutrients to the hair follicles and stimulating stem cell populations. However, micro-needling should be done carefully to avoid significant tissue damage.
Microneedling, Minoxidil & “Dead Zones”
Microneedling, Minoxidil, and "Dead Zones"
Microneedling is a potential treatment for hair loss, either alone or in combination with Minoxidil. It has been found to show positive benefits in both men and women of various ages. Needle lengths of 1-2.5 millimeters are more effective than shorter lengths. Although it may cause some pain and bleeding, microneedling is generally considered tolerable.
Combining microneedling with Minoxidil treatment is more effective than either treatment alone. This combination is particularly effective in recovering "dead zones," which are areas of the scalp with no or very few stem cells. However, it can take a long time for hair to grow in these dead zones, typically 30 to 50 weeks. Neither Minoxidil nor microneedling alone has been shown to be effective in recovering dead zones.
Minoxidil is a crucial treatment for hair loss, and stopping its use can lead to hair loss even with other treatments. Therefore, once someone starts using Minoxidil, they will likely have to continue using it indefinitely.
Botox Treatments
Botox treatments have multiple uses, including stimulating hair growth and reducing wrinkles. However, it is important to find a skilled professional for proper administration. Key points include:
- Botox stimulates follicles and increases blood flow, promoting hair growth.
- It works by cutting a protein in neurons, relaxing hyper-contracted nerves in the skin.
- Botox injections can be targeted to specific areas.
- It can relieve tension on the scalp and potentially offset hair loss.
- Negative side effects can occur if administered improperly.
- Effects wear off over time, requiring repeated injections.
- Limited research on Botox for hair loss, but it may be a safer alternative to Minoxidil.
- Low-dose Tadalafil may be a better option for increasing scalp blood flow.
- Botox is used for cutis verticis gyrata, a condition causing lumps on the scalp.
- It can flatten bumps associated with the condition, leading to improved hair growth.
Androgens, Hair Growth & Pattern Hair Loss; Scalp vs. Beard Hair
The duration of the growth phase of hair, as well as the receding phase and the resting phase, are controlled by certain chemical factors. Insulin growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and cyclic AMP are key players in regulating hair growth. IGF-1 extends the growth phase, while cyclic AMP acts as a messenger to transmit signals within cells and control gene expression. Both IGF-1 and cyclic AMP are considered accelerators of hair growth.
- Androgens, such as testosterone and its derivatives, play a role in hair loss.
- Factors like PDE and TGF-beta-2 act as brakes on hair growth, while insulin growth factor 1 acts as an accelerator.
- Androgen-related alopecia affects both men and women.
- Androgens inhibit IGF-1 and cyclic AMP, which affects hair growth.
- Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) inhibits hair growth by reducing the levels of IGF-1 and cyclic AMP.
- Testosterone is converted into DHT by the enzyme 5-alpha reductase.
- Increased 5-alpha reductase activity with age leads to higher levels of DHT and hair loss.
- Around 50% of people experience pattern hair loss by age 50.
- Hair loss patterns depend on the distribution of androgen receptors on the scalp.
- Hair loss inheritance comes from both parents, not just the mother's side.
- Androgen receptors on the face are responsible for beard growth.
- Individuals with a higher density of androgen receptors can grow thicker beards.
- Treatments for hair loss focus on inhibiting DHT or 5-alpha reductase.
Topical Caffeine & Slowing Hair Loss
Topical caffeine can inhibit PDE and stimulate IGF-1, promoting hair growth. It is as effective as Minoxidil in maintaining or increasing hair growth without side effects. However, concentration and frequency of application should be considered. Drinking caffeine does not have the same effect as applying it topically. Caffeine ointments should be applied about three times a week. Dosages of caffeine in these ointments have not been extensively studied. Caffeine has comparable efficacy to minoxidil in preventing hair loss but does not promote significant new hair growth. It may stimulate hair cell growth and reduce cell death in the stem cell niche, prolonging hair follicle lifespan. Combining caffeine with DHT pathway treatments may be beneficial.
IGF-1: Growth Hormone & Sermorelin; Insulin Sensitivity: Myo-Inositol
The role of IGF-1 in promoting healthy hair growth and how it can be increased through prescription drugs like growth hormone and sermorelin.
- Growth hormone is released during sleep, especially after a fasting period and regular bedtimes.
- Prescription approaches like growth hormone and sermorelin can increase IGF-1 levels, which have various benefits such as increasing hair growth, promoting fat loss, improving skin appearance, and increasing bone mass.
- However, these treatments also come with side effects, including an increased risk of cancer.
- Sermorelin is a prescription drug that can increase IGF-1 levels and promote hair growth, but it has its own risks.
- Insulin sensitivity is crucial for the action of IGF-1, and it is important to avoid insulin resistance.
- Maintaining a healthy body fat percentage, regular exercise, and potentially using prescription treatments can improve insulin sensitivity.
- Supplements like myo-inositol, berberine, or metformin can also improve insulin sensitivity.
- Myo-inositol has the lowest number of side effects and aids in sleep.
- Berberine and metformin are effective in reducing blood sugar levels but should be taken with carbohydrates to avoid discomfort.
Iron & Hair Growth
Iron is crucial for stimulating hair growth and maintaining healthy hair.
- Iron plays a vital role in the cell growth pathways that promote hair growth.
- Having the right amount of iron is important for hair health.
- Women should aim for iron levels between 25 and 100, while men should aim for levels between 30 and 150.
- It is recommended to get your iron levels tested through a blood panel.
- Low iron levels may require supplementation.
- High iron levels can be harmful.
- Ensuring sufficient iron intake through nutrition or supplementation is essential for healthy hair growth.
5-Alpha Reductase & Saw Palmetto; Curcumin
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) negatively affects hair growth by shortening the growth phase and miniaturizing hair follicles. Inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone to DHT, can prevent hair loss. Saw palmetto can weakly inhibit 5-alpha reductase and is beneficial for hair health when taken at around 300 milligrams per day. It may help prevent hair loss and promote new hair growth. Saw palmetto is often used in combination with other treatments and has minimal side effects. Other herbal compounds like Tongkat Ali and Fadogia agrestis can also impact hair health. Curcumin, known for inhibiting 5-alpha reductase and DHT, may increase hair growth but can have negative side effects. Overall, saw palmetto is a potential treatment for hair loss due to its ability to inhibit 5-alpha reductase with low side effects and anecdotal success.
Ketoconazole & Offsetting Hair Loss
Ketoconazole, also known as Nizoral, is an antifungal shampoo that can help offset hair loss and promote hair growth in areas of thinning hair. It works by reducing the miniaturization of hair follicles and the total population of stem cells. Here are the key points:
- Ketoconazole shampoo should be used 2-4 times per week, leaving it on the scalp for 3-5 minutes and massaging it in.
- It has been shown to increase hair number and diameter, despite its common side effect of drying and thinning hair.
- Ketoconazole disrupts fungal growth on the scalp and may reinforce the properties of sebum, reducing DHT levels.
- Using ketoconazole shampoo has an 80% success rate in maintaining hair.
- Its ability to stimulate new hair growth is less clear.
- It is important to use a shampoo with at least 2% concentration of ketoconazole to ensure effectiveness.
- Biotin-enriched shampoos may help offset side effects such as scalp irritation and hair thinning.
- Choose ketoconazole shampoos that have a 2% concentration and are not overly drying or damaging to the hair.
Topical & Oral Finasteride
Topical and oral finasteride are effective in reducing dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels, promoting hair growth and thickness. However, proper dosing is crucial to avoid significant side effects. Here are the key points:
- Finasteride can increase hair count by up to 20% and reduce hair loss in 90% of users.
- It can thicken existing hair and inhibit DHT in the hair follicles.
- Topical application is more difficult to dose accurately compared to oral tablets.
- Dosage for hair growth varies widely, ranging from 0.01mg to 5mg per day.
- A low dose of 0.01mg can lead to a 50% reduction in DHT.
- Starting with the lowest effective dose is recommended to minimize side effects.
- Increasing the dosage does not result in a linear increase in DHT reduction.
- Applying 1 ml of 0.25% topical finasteride is equivalent to taking 2.5 mg of oral finasteride in terms of blood concentration.
- Topical finasteride can still lead to significant systemic concentrations.
- The effective dose for hair growth is 0.2 mg in the bloodstream.
- The choice between oral and topical finasteride depends on individual sensitivity and preferences.
- The recommended dosage is 0.5mg to 1mg per day, but adjustments may be necessary due to side effects.
- Patience is key, as it takes time to see results.
- Increasing the dosage too quickly is not recommended.
- Topical finasteride is associated with fewer or less severe side effects compared to oral finasteride.
- Monitoring hormone levels and working with a doctor is ideal when using finasteride.
Post- Finasteride Syndrome
Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS) is a newly recognized phenomenon where individuals, typically males, who have taken finasteride for hair loss or prostate treatment experience severe and debilitating symptoms after discontinuing the medication. These symptoms include reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, depression, and even suicidal thoughts. PFS has become a significant concern as it occurs in younger males who are not typically prone to these issues. The medical community is now addressing this condition, initially perplexed by its occurrence.
Key points:
- PFS primarily affects younger males who have taken high dosages of finasteride for hair growth or combatting hair loss.
- Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone responsible for male genitalia development and puberty activation, may play a role in the maturation of the hypothalamus and other areas of the brain.
- PFS is associated with sexual and depressive side effects.
- Treatment with finasteride can have serious side effects, even after discontinuation.
Dutasteride
Dutasteride is a potent inhibitor of the 5α-Reductase enzyme, reducing DHT by 95% and promoting hair regrowth. However, it is associated with side effects such as reduced sex drive and increased estrogen prolactin. Some people prefer dutasteride over finasteride due to its faster action, but precautions should be taken to minimize side effects.
- Dutasteride inhibits all three isoforms of the 5α-Reductase enzyme
- It reduces DHT levels by 95%
- It works 2-5 times faster than finasteride in inducing hair regrowth
- Side effects include reduced sex drive and increased estrogen prolactin
- Some people choose dutasteride over finasteride for its faster action
- Precautions should be taken to minimize side effects
Mechanical & Chemical Stimulation for Hair Growth
Combination treatments involving both mechanical and chemical stimulation are more effective for hair regrowth than either one alone. Microneedling is the most effective mechanical stimulus. The combination of microneedling and finasteride can lead to significant hair regrowth, even in individuals who were previously bald. It is safe to use additional treatments such as ketoconazole shampoo and saw palmetto alongside microneedling and finasteride. However, caution should be exercised when combining multiple treatments that affect DHT levels. The response to these treatments and the occurrence of side effects vary greatly among individuals, making it necessary to explore and find the most suitable approach.
Zero-Cost Support, YouTube Feedback, Spotify & Apple Reviews, Sponsors, Momentous, Social Media, Neural Network Newsletter
The most profound aspect of the text is the discussion of various ways to support the Huberman Lab podcast, including subscribing to their YouTube channel, leaving reviews on Spotify and Apple, and checking out their sponsors.
Key points:
- Subscribing to the Huberman Lab YouTube channel and leaving reviews on Spotify and Apple are ways to support the podcast.
- Checking out the podcast's sponsors is another way to show support.
- The video mentions the benefits of supplements and provides a link to the discussed supplements.
- Viewers are encouraged to follow Huberman Lab on social media and subscribe to their Neural Network newsletter.
- The Neural Network newsletter includes podcast episode summaries and toolkits for optimizing health.
- The main topic of the video is the biology of hair, hair growth, and strategies for maintaining and regrowing hair.