Alpecin Caffeine Shampoo reduces hereditary hair loss
Conducted at the Centre for Cosmetic Research at the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Rome, Italy
Summary
The aim of the study was to analyse the effectiveness of Alpecin Caffeine Shampoo in treating hereditary hair loss in men.
The results show a reduction in hair loss and an improvement in hair strength after daily use over six months. Additionally, typical scalp issues such as itching and dryness also improved.
Background
Hereditary hair loss is by far the most common cause of hair loss among the male population. Topically applied substances should therefore be evaluated for their cosmetic effects and potential to improve quality of life.
Researchers believe that a combination of several factors contributes to the onset of male hair loss: androgens, genetic, and age-related factors. The male hormone testosterone plays a central role in the onset of hair loss, possibly independent of hereditary disposition.
Caffeine has been shown to stimulate hair growth, helping to improve skin function and being easily absorbed through the scalp. The exact mechanism by which caffeine stimulates hair growth is still unknown, but it appears to not only have a direct influence but may also help block the effects of testosterone in the skin. It has already been found that caffeine penetrates the hair follicles after 2 minutes and that transdermal absorption is even faster than other absorption pathways.
Method
To examine the cosmetic effect and quality of a shampoo for treating male hair loss, the Centre for Cosmetic Research at the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Rome conducted an application test under normal usage conditions over a period of 6 consecutive months.
The 30 male participants, aged between 18 and 55 years with an average age of 37, were required to use the shampoo at home once daily for 6 months, applying 7 ml to their hair and scalp, leaving it on for 2 minutes, and then rinsing it out. The participants were not allowed to use any other shampoo, bleach their hair, or change environmental conditions (vitamin intake, dietary changes, etc.).
The experimental area of the scalp was examined initially, then after 3 and 6 months of application, to assess the intensity of hair loss. Additionally, the cosmetic efficacy was described using a dermatological questionnaire filled out by the participants before the application and then after 3 and 6 months.
Result
The caffeine shampoo showed excellent skin compatibility under normal usage conditions. The test subjects did not experience any discomfort when using the caffeine shampoo. Additionally, the caffeine shampoo demonstrated good cosmetic effects.
The hair pull test revealed that the number of pulled hairs decreased by 7 % after 3 months of treatment and by 14 % after 6 months, indicating improved hair resistance. The evaluation of the dermatological questionnaire showed a significant improvement in hair strength and a notable reduction in hair loss after 6 months of shampoo use.
Alpecin not only improved hair condition but also reduced typical scalp problems such as itching, dry scalp, and tightness after 6 months of use.
Conclusion
The result of the pull test conducted in the study showed an increase in hair resistance to pulling and a decrease in hair loss. The good cosmetic efficacy of Alpecin shampoo was dermatologically confirmed. Therefore, scientists believe that the daily use of Alpecin shampoo prevents premature hair loss.
Alpecin was developed to care for thinning hair, as the caffeine complex helps to strengthen the hair by stimulating the hair roots. This effect leads to an overall improvement in quality of life and greater satisfaction due to good cosmetic efficacy and reduced hair loss with daily use over a period of at least 6 months.
The regular use of Alpecin shampoo sustainably activates the hair roots, thereby creating the conditions for strong and healthy hair growth.
Source
C. Bussoletti, F. Mastropietro, M. V. Tolaini, L. Celleno (2010): Use of a caffeine shampoo for the treatment of male androgenetic alopecia. Journal of Applied Cosmetology. 28,4 (Oct. 2010), 153-162.