24 in the journal Stem Cell Reports, the researchers describe a unique role for a molecule called thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP). They found TSLP plays a key role in prompting hair growth after an injury and during the normal hair growth cycle.
In a study published in the journal Frontiers in Pharmacology, researchers have discovered that a sugar called 2-deoxy-D-ribose (2dDR), which plays a fundamental role in various biological processes both in animals and humans, can stimulate hair to regrow in mice.
Minoxidil lotion applied with low concentrations of tretinoin has been show to promote greater hair growth—and possibly faster results—than minoxidil used alone. Tretinoin may increase the absorption of minoxidil through the skin as well as having additional hair growth promoting effects.
If you have hair loss and low vitamin D levels, your doctor may recommend vitamin D supplements. Iron. Iron is responsible for carrying oxygen to your hair follicles so your hair can grow. Iron supplements may be recommended if you have hair loss as well as iron deficiency that is confirmed by laboratory tests.
Retinoic acid. Topical application of all-trans retinoic acid (tretinoin) has been shown to promote hair growth, especially when combined with minoxidil.
Nu Shen Zi, also known as Chinese privet fruit, is a popular herb in TCM for promoting hair growth. It is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support overall hair health.
Look for these key ingredients: Minoxidil and finasteride are the gold standards for hair regrowth. Other beneficial ingredients include biotin, caffeine, copper peptides, and saw palmetto. Avoid irritants: Alcohol, sulfates, parabens, and fragrances can dry out and inflame the scalp, potentially worsening hair loss.
To revitalize strands, look for products formulated with natural ingredients. “Some ingredients that stimulate growth are herbs like saw palmetto, horsetail, and vitamin B3,” Stevens says. “Oils like coconut oil, vitamin E oil, pumpkin seed oil, peppermint oil, rosemary, tea tree, and thyme oil are additional options.”
The most common options include: Minoxidil (Rogaine). Over-the-counter (nonprescription) minoxidil comes in liquid, foam and shampoo forms. To be most effective, apply the product to the scalp skin once daily for women and twice daily for men.
These findings suggest that cinnamic acid, a component of Cinnamomum cassia, exhibits a hair growth-promoting effect, which is believed to be mediated through the upregulation of OXTR expression.
Oral Finasteride
Finasteride slows the rate of hair loss and stimulates new hair growth by inhibiting the body's production of a hormone that destroys hair follicles. This medication is taken once a day by mouth and is most effective when taken at the same time each day.
Hair growth is no different and, in fact, several nutrients are absolutely critical for regular hair growth — vitamins A, C, biotin (B7), and D, and the essential minerals iron, zinc, and iodine. Together, these minerals provide the nutritional foundation for fuller, thicker, shinier-looking hair.
Minoxidil can be used by men or women and is most effective at the first sign of hair loss. In rare cases, hair loss is due to a nutrient deficient diet, particularly one that lacks biotin, a B vitamin. In this case a biotin supplement can help.
Foods packed with protein such as chicken breast, fish, greek yogurt and eggs, can help promote healthier hair because hair follicles are mostly made up of protein. Vitamins and minerals such as iron, vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin E and vitamin D can also make a difference.
People in China and Japan have long used rice water to grow their hair longer and prevent it from turning gray. Anecdotal evidence suggests it may also be effective at preventing tangles, but more research is necessary. Rice water is the starchy water left over after rice is cooked or left to soak.
Extremely low protein diets may result in restricted hair growth and even hair loss. Collagen is the main structural protein of hair, and may help strengthen the hair shaft and prevent breakage. Choose chicken, turkey, fish, dairy products and eggs along with vegetarian sources such as legumes and nuts.
A natural supplement designed to boost hair growth can help. For example, biotin and folic acid supplements are common hair-loss treatments. 8 Even multivitamins can strengthen hair growth, Joshua Zeichner, MD, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital, told Health.
Argan oil is one of the best hair oils for growth. That is because it is incredibly rich in Vitamin E and fatty acids. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the hair from free radicals and damaging environmental factors. Argan oil helps both protect our hair and also promote a healthy scalp.
When it comes to regrowing hair at home, Minoxidil (the generic form of Rogaine) is one of the most popular solutions. It comes up in almost every conversation we have with experts about hair growth — and for good reason.
Bhringraj (Ecliptaelba), commonly known as “false daisy,” grows in moist areas and is packed with the goodness of vitamins, calcium, magnesium, and iron. It is recognized as the “King of hair” due to the immense benefits of the plant extracts for hair nourishment.
Advanced Trichology NutraM DHT Blocking Hair Serum was our favorite of the bunch, an easy-to-use leave-on that delivered impressive results. And if you have a sensitive scalp, consider Keeps 5% Minoxidil Foam, an effective option that doesn't cause skin irritation.