Researchers discover method against hair loss
According to their own statements, Japanese scientists may have found a remedy for hair loss: Thanks to a new method, they succeeded in producing the hair follicles responsible for hair growth in record numbers.
Men in particular have to struggle with genetic hair loss in old age. Some people develop their first receding hairline at a young age.
However, diseases such as cancer, psoriasis, lupus, depression, overactive or underactive thyroid glands, as well as stress, side effects of certain medications and hormonal fluctuations can also be the cause of hair loss.
The Japanese researchers want to take action against this. Will hair loss soon be a thing of the past thanks to this treatment?
How does the method work?
With the help of a simple active ingredient, namely silicone oil, Japanese researchers grew so-called hair follicle germs (HFG), the sources of the follicles, from stem cells in the laboratory. Within a few days, they had grown 5,000 of these seeds, enough to ‘reforest’ bare patches.
Other methods and treatments have so far come up to a maximum of 50 HFG at a time. The newly discovered agent therefore has a very beneficial effect on hair growth.
Goal of the method
According to team leader Junji Fukuda from Yokohama State University, the new technology could be an ideal therapy for cancer patients and other patients with pathological hair loss. The new treatment with the active ingredient silicone oil can also help people who want to take action against their thinning headgear for aesthetic reasons.
New alternative to hair transplantation
The previous method of transplanting hair roots from the nape of the neck to balder areas has one disadvantage: “It does not increase the hair volume.” and neither does general hair growth. Thus, this new method against hair loss is a good alternative to previous hair transplant treatments.
Compared to medication against hair loss with the active ingredients minoxidil and finasteride, the treatment method is said to have fewer side effects. According to him, the first tests on humans could only be possible in five years; it will probably take another five years before the therapy is ready for use.
Application of silicone oil
Researcher Fukuda has another disappointment ready: McDonald’s fries don’t help against baldness. Although the silicone oil used in the study – polydimethylsiloxane – is also used by the fast food giant for its frying fats, consuming this substance does not help with hair loss, curbed hair growth and non-functioning hair follicles.
Corresponding misinterpretations of his study would have taken him quite aback, said Fukuda. “I’ve seen comments online asking, ‘How many fries do I have to eat for my hair to grow back?'” he says, adding, “I would feel bad if people thought they were going to eat something have this effect”.
