Dive deep into the biology of hair growth, the causes of hair loss and scientifically-backed methods to slow down the process or even stimulate hair regrowth.
Hosted by Andrew Huberman, this episode will dispel common myths about hair loss and explore various treatments like minoxidil, tadalafil, PRP, microneedling, Botox, and ketoconazole.
Effect of Age and Genetics on Hair Loss
Age and genetics significantly impact hair loss.
With age, there is an increase in 5-alpha reductase activity, which converts more testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), leading to hair loss.
Role of Hormones in Hair Loss
Hormones, such as estrogen and dihydrotestosterone, have significant roles in hair loss.
Regulating these hormones can help slow down or even reverse hair loss.
Importance of Consulting a Health Professional
Individual responses to treatments vary widely.
It’s important to start with minimal effective dosages and monitor side effects.
Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any treatment regimen.
The Role of Androgen Receptors in Hair Growth
Androgen receptors on the scalp and face play a key role in hair growth.
Individuals with a high density of these receptors can grow thicker beards as DHT levels increase.
What makes hair so very interesting from a biological standpoint is that every hair, every single individual strand of hair has its own little stem cell niche, meaning its own little pocket down there in the follicle in which specific stem cells give rise to those hairs for different durations of time. – Andrew Huberman
Hair Growth and Stem Cells
Hair growth is controlled by stem cells within hair follicles, with each hair strand having a unique stem cell niche.
This niche determines the growth duration of the hair.
Managing Hair Loss with Chemical and Mechanical Approaches
Chemical and mechanical treatments like minoxidil, tadalafil, and microneedling can effectively address hair loss.
However, they need to be carefully monitored due to potential side effects.
Impact of Hair Loss on Mental Health
Hair loss can lead to significant psychological distress and anxiety.
Therefore, understanding the biology of hair growth is crucial for implementing effective treatments.
Benefits of Ketoconazole Shampoos
Ketoconazole shampoos with a 2% concentration can slow hair loss and combat dryness and brittleness.
They can be a part of a comprehensive hair loss treatment regimen.
Promising Results from Microneedling
Microneedling has shown promising results for hair growth.
It’s a mechanical approach that can be combined with chemical treatments for more effective results.
Topical Application of Caffeine for Hair Loss
Topical application of caffeine can stimulate hair growth by inhibiting phosphodiesterase.
However, it should be applied directly to the scalp as oral ingestion does not deliver sufficient concentrations.
Combination treatments that involve a mechanical stimulus and a chemical stimulus are always going to be better than either one alone. – Andrew Huberman
Use of Finasteride for Hair Growth
Finasteride can increase hair count by up to 20% and reduce hair loss in 90% of users.
However, it should be used cautiously due to potential side effects.
Importance of Blood Flow in Hair Growth
Healthy hair growth depends on adequate blood flow, which delivers essential nutrients and oxygen.
Treatments that increase blood flow, such as minoxidil, can prolong the growth phase and slow down hair loss.
