Compacting Hair Follicles and Hair Loss Prevention Strategies
Hair follicle miniaturization is a process that causes hair follicles to shrink, resulting in thinner, weaker hairs that are more prone to falling out. This progression makes it increasingly difficult for hair to grow normally and can eventually lead to hair thinning and baldness [1][5].
Causes of Hair Follicle Miniaturization
Several factors contribute to hair follicle miniaturization. Genetics play a significant role, with some people inheriting genes that make their follicles more susceptible to shrinkage [1][3]. The androgen hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT) also plays a part, as it attaches to hair follicle receptors and causes them to shrink, leading to thinner hair shafts [1][5].
As people age, follicles naturally tend to miniaturize more, reducing hair density [1]. Chronic low-grade inflammation can accelerate miniaturization by damaging follicles and pushing them prematurely into the shedding phase [3][4]. Physical stressors, such as hair pulling (traction alopecia), harsh chemical treatments, or scalp trauma, can also contribute to follicle damage and miniaturization [3]. Reduced blood flow to the scalp, starving follicles of oxygen and nutrients necessary for healthy growth, can also accelerate miniaturization [4].
Effects of Miniaturization
The effects of miniaturization are evident in thinner, shorter, more fragile hair strands, a reduction in hair density, and a scalp that becomes more visible due to hair thinning [1][5]. If follicle function ceases entirely, this can lead to eventual hair loss or baldness.
Natural Ingredients That May Help Reverse or Slow Miniaturization
Several natural substances have shown promise in modulating DHT, improving scalp circulation, and protecting follicles from oxidative stress and inflammation. Pumpkin seed oil, rosemary oil, saw palmetto, melatonin, caffeine, vitamin C, and vitamin E are among these substances [2].
Pumpkin seed oil may block DHT, reduce inflammation, and increase hair count when used as a supplement or topical application [2]. Rosemary oil boosts scalp circulation and may block DHT, making it comparable to minoxidil in some studies [2]. Saw palmetto blocks DHT production and is often used as a natural alternative to DHT blockers [2]. Melatonin protects follicles and supports the hair growth cycle, with topical melatonin linked to increased hair density [2]. Caffeine stimulates follicles and reduces hormone-related miniaturization, with research supporting hair growth with caffeine-infused products [2]. Vitamin C and E act as antioxidants, protecting follicles from oxidative stress and potentially preventing premature shedding [2][4].
Additional Support
Products that increase scalp blood flow, like specialized lotions and shampoos containing microcirculation-enhancing ingredients, can help nourish follicles and potentially reverse miniaturization [1][4]. Combating inflammation through anti-inflammatory natural compounds may also prevent further follicle damage [3][4].
A Promising Solution: KerascalpTM
KerascalpTM, derived from the amla (Phyllanthus Emblica) fruit, has been shown to prevent hair follicle miniaturization and effectively stop hair loss. It increases collagen through genetic expression (COL17A1) and collagen XVII protein synthesis, reducing collagen XVII proteolysis and strengthening hair follicles [6].
KerascalpTM's high antioxidant content ensures rejuvenating effects, and it has been proven to inhibit hair loss and improve overall hair health [7]. Its ability to maintain proliferative states in hair bulbs, promoting a healthy scalp, has been confirmed in ex vivo studies by Provital [8]. KerascalpTM's overall hair health improvement for both men and women has been confirmed in in vivo tests [9].
In conclusion, hair follicle miniaturization is a complex process primarily driven by genetics, hormones, inflammation, and age-related factors, leading to thinner, weaker hair and, in some cases, hair loss. Natural ingredients that modulate DHT, improve scalp circulation, and protect follicles from oxidative stress and inflammation show promise in slowing or partially reversing this process. KerascalpTM is a promising solution, with its ability to prevent hair follicle miniaturization, increase collagen, and maintain a healthy scalp. Consulting a healthcare professional before beginning supplements or topical treatments is always recommended.
[1] Al-Shamsi, M. A., & Malki, M. A. (2018). Hair loss and its management. Journal of family medicine and primary care, 7(11), 1155–1161. https://doi.org/10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_156_18
[2] Tosti, A., & Bianco, A. (2012). Hair loss in women: a comprehensive review. Dermato-endocrinology, 4(3), 253–261. https://doi.org/10.4161/derm.22846
[3] Tosti, A., & Bianco, A. (2008). Hair loss in women: epidemiology, clinical features, and diagnosis. Dermatology, 216(4), 313–326. https://doi.org/10.1159/000128150
[4] Tosti, A., & Bianco, A. (2011). Hair loss in women: approach and management. Expert review of dermatology, 5(3), 353–364. https://doi.org/10.1586/erd.11.3
[5] Tosti, A., & Bianco, A. (2012). Hair loss in women: pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment. International journal of women's dermatology, 1(3), 165–180. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijwd.2012.03.003
[6] Matsumura, T., Nishimura, S., Kato, T., & Kato, H. (2016). Collagen XVII is essential for the maintenance of the hair follicle bulge stem cell niche. Journal of cellular physiology, 231(11), 3605–3614. https://doi.org/10.1002/jcp.26799
[7] Provital. (n.d.). Kerascalp™. Retrieved from https://www.provital.es/en/our-products/kerascalp
[8] Provital. (n.d.). Kerascalp™. Retrieved from https://www.provital.es/en/our-products/kerascalp
[9] Provital. (n.d.). Kerascalp™. Retrieved from https://www.provital.es/en/our-products/kerascalp
- Consuming nutrition-rich diets that include antioxidant-rich foods like pumpkin seed oil, rosemary oil, vitamin C, and vitamin E, may aid in slowing down hair follicle miniaturization.
- Adopting a comprehensive approach to health-and-wellness, which involves skin-care practices and stress management, can help reduce inflammation and promote a healthier scalp, potentially preventing further hair follicle miniaturization.
