FAQ Shampoos & LiquidsFAQ Shampoos & Liquids: Frequently Asked Questions About Our Products

The Caffeine complex consists of Caffeine, zinc and niacin. Caffeine stimulates the hair roots, prolongs the growth phase, and improves hair growth. Niacin and zinc are important growth factors for healthy hair roots.

The combination of active ingredients containing Caffeine cancels out the inherited and undesirable effect of testosterone – the growth phases are extended to their natural length again and continued hair growth well into old age becomes possible.

The effectiveness of Alpecin always depends on regular use and the individual condition of the scalp. Additionally, other factors such as physical strain, unhealthy diet (e.g., too much fast food), environmental toxins, psychosomatics, stress, vitamin deficiency, and occupational stress (e.g., wearing a helmet) can accelerate hair loss.

Male pattern baldness

Every second man is affected by hair loss. In 80% of all cases, it is male pattern baldness, known as "androgenetic alopecia," that concerns men. Hereditary hair loss is not a disease but a predisposition. Therefore, it cannot be permanently cured but must be treated continuously. Alpecin prevents hereditary hair loss. This effectiveness has been proven in the following studies.

Alpecin products are specifically developed to meet the needs of the male scalp, which is also reflected in their scent and very masculine packaging.

However, the Caffeine active ingredient complex is effective regardless of gender, so Alpecin products can also be used by women who suffer from hereditary hair loss.

Hair Loss in Women

Additionally, Dr. Wolff has developed Plantur 39, caffeine hair care products specifically tailored to the needs of the female scalp.

If you have a genetic predisposition, you should start using it as early as possible, namely after puberty. From this point on, male testosterone, in the case of a genetic predisposition, exerts its negative effect on the energy supply of the hair roots, causing a shortening of the growth phases until premature hair loss occurs. Hereditary hair loss is therefore not a question of age.

The regular energy supply from the Caffeine complex extends the growth phases of individual hairs, making hair growth possible even into old age.

If the treatment is interrupted, the phases shorten again, and the hair falls out prematurely. Therefore, successful prevention of hereditary hair loss must be started early, carried out regularly, and maintained continuously. Daily and consistent use is highly recommended.

Clinical studies have shown that after approximately three months of daily use of a Caffeine product, a reduction in hair loss can be noticed. Over a longer period, it becomes apparent that the hair is more manageable, stronger, and more resilient.

There are initial indications that hair loss may be a late or long-term consequence of a COVID-19 infection*. This may be a form of hair loss that occurs due to a weakening of the organism by an illness with SARS-CoV-2. The exact relationship between the illness and hair loss is still the subject of scientific research.

Caffeine-containing products like those from Alpecin or Plantur have been developed and tested with regard to hereditary or menopausal hair loss. In 2019, caffeine was highlighted by independent British hair researchers as the best-researched plant-based substance against hair loss. The fact that caffeine-containing hair care products can prevent hereditary hair loss and positively influence the energy metabolism of the hair root has been confirmed in numerous scientific studies. So far, no studies have been conducted to investigate the effect of caffeine hair care (e.g., shampoo, liquid) on hair loss due to a COVID-19 infection.

Source:

S. Lopez-Leon et al: More than 50 Long-term effects of COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis | medRxiv, 2021

Since coffee is taken orally, it first passes through the digestive organs and is only absorbed by the body later. The caffeine is then distributed throughout the body, and only a tiny amount reaches the scalp and hair roots. Therefore, local and direct delivery of caffeine to the hair roots is sensible and necessary. Even drinking 50 cups of coffee would not transport enough caffeine to the hair roots.

To the Alpecin Shampoos & Liquids

The caffeine from coffee is not capable of penetrating the scalp or the hair follicle. A special carrier base (galenic formulation) is necessary to transport the active ingredients to the location where they can exert their effect.

Does Alpecin really help against hair loss?

The specially developed galenic formulation of Alpecin products by Dr. Wolff Research transports the caffeine to the hair follicles, where it has been proven to stimulate the hair root. The effectiveness has been demonstrated in the following studies.

Animal testing for the assessment of the safety of finished cosmetic products and raw materials is prohibited under the European Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009. Even before this ban came into force, we did not carry out any animal testing in the development of our cosmetic products in order to confirm their eligibility for marketing in the EU. Instead, we assess the tolerability of our formulations on voluntary participants, for example as part of clinical tests or through dermatological institutes.

After 3 months of regular application, studies have shown a significant reduction in hair loss.

For a successful treatment of hereditary hair loss, it's essential to apply Caffeine DMG to the scalp daily. Important: Do not rinse out the serum.

Unlike medicinal products, no undesirable side effects are to be expected with regular use. None were found in studies or reported by consumers so far.

No, what's important is the daily dose of Caffeine DMG. The serum is ideal for days when you don't wash your hair or when you use a shampoo without the active ingredient DMG.

As a scientifically oriented company, Dr. Wolff places the highest value on sound research and evidence-based statements. We are currently a pioneer in the field of topical application of N,N-dimethylglycine (DMG). To generate valid and objective data, we rely on a high-quality study design. Our investigations – for example into the Alpecin Caffeine-DMG products – were therefore conducted in a placebo-controlled, randomised, and double-blind manner. A brief explanation of these terms:

• Placebo-controlled: One group receives the active ingredient formulation, another receives a placebo. This allows the actual effectiveness to be assessed objectively.
• Randomised: Allocation to the groups is made at random in order to avoid systematic bias.
• Double-blind: Neither the study participants nor the technical staff know who is receiving which treatment, ensuring unbiased results.

In humans, the hair cycle is individual for each hair. Some of your hairs are actively in the growth phase (anagen), while others have entered the resting phase (telogen) at the same time. Hair roots are usually in a growth phase for around 8 years before entering a resting phase of around 5 to 8 months. The hair then falls out. A new growth cycle then begins, which can be repeated 8 to 20 times.

After using the caffeine liquid, it may take some time for the hair roots to recover and transition from the resting phase to a renewed growth phase. Normally, the increased hair loss should decrease noticeably after a period of approx. 3 to 4 months.

The effect of Alpecin Caffeine Liquid targets hair roots that are still alive. The Caffeine complex strengthens existing but already weakened hair and hair roots. However, it is not a hair restoration product.

No, the Caffeine in Alpecin Caffeine Liquid is absorbed through the hair canal and scalp in just the right amount, making it completely safe even for individuals sensitive to Caffeine. Additionally, since the active ingredient is applied directly to the scalp, the amount that enters the rest of the body is minimal and negligible.

Yes, simply wait approximately 3 minutes after massaging in Alpecin Caffeine Liquid to allow it to absorb, and then use your preferred styling product, such as hair gel, wax, or hairspray.

Yes, Alpecin Caffeine Liquid can be applied to dry hair. Use the dosing tip to apply it directly to the scalp and massage it in. Since the liquid penetrates the scalp quickly, you can style your hair as usual afterward. Avoid contact with the eyes, as the alcohol may cause a slight burning sensation that will subside quickly.

The Caffeine complex quickly penetrates to the hair roots and forms an active ingredient depot there that lasts for up to 24 hours. Daily use is absolutely essential to constantly supply the hair roots with sufficient growth energy and to protect against the negative effects of testosterone. This has been proven by studies.

In rare cases, increased hair loss may occur temporarily ("shedding").

Hair loss due to head massage?

The intensive head massage can cause hair that is in the resting phase to be increasingly massaged out of the follicle. After a short time, however, this increased hair loss recedes and the hair growth cycles can regenerate.

The effectiveness of all products is subject to the individual metabolism of each individual. Even medicines have no guaranteed effect. The reason for this is that every person reacts differently. Some effects are also not perceived immediately, e.g. severe hair loss may have reduced but still be slightly increased.

The easiest way to dose is to apply Caffeine Liquid with the dosing tip directly to the scalp, parting by parting, so that it can be massaged into the entire scalp. Particularly vulnerable areas on the forehead and the back of the head should be treated well; however, do not neglect areas with full hair growth.

Alpecin Caffeine Liquid is a cosmetic product for increasing the productivity of your hair roots, which is of course subject to the provisions of the European Cosmetics Regulation. This means that cosmetics must be free from side effects, and of course Alpecin Caffeine Liquid is no exception.

No, alcohol is not harmful and does not have any negative effects on the hair. In fact, the alcohol in Alpecin ensures quick absorption and helps deliver the active ingredients even through oily skin layers. This is particularly beneficial if you want to use Alpecin daily without washing your hair every day. Water alone cannot achieve this, as it tends to roll off the skin.

Apply Alpecin Caffeine Liquid in the morning and after each hair wash. Use the dosing tip to apply it directly to the towel-dried scalp, then massage it in. Do not rinse it out! Allow the liquid to dry briefly before combing through your hair and styling as usual.

In principle, yes. Thanks to the double effect, i.e. the simultaneous action against dandruff and hair loss, the shampoo prevents hereditary hair loss and gets rid of annoying dandruff. Both causes are permanent, i.e. the hereditary predisposition and the risk of skin irritation and dandruff caused by microorganisms and sebum persist throughout life.

By massaging the head with Alpecin Double Effect Caffeine Shampoo, the active ingredients are better absorbed by the skin and the hair roots and a supply of active ingredients (depot) is created. In addition, the gentle pressure removes the top cuticle layer more effectively.

Grey Attack is ideal for men who are experiencing first signs of grey hair or slightly more grey hair who want quick colour results. It is best suited for natural hair shades ranging from light brown to black.

Disclaimer: May cause violet discoloration on white hair.

Yes, Alpecin Grey Attack Shampoo is suitable for daily hair washing. It effectively removes sebum and dirt from the hair and scalp, eliminating the need for an additional shampoo. For best results, leave Grey Attack on for 2–5 minutes from application to rinsing.

The result depends on the condition and amount of grey hair. The colour effect develops gradually and becomes noticeable after 3 weeks of daily use. For optimal results, leave Alpecin Grey Attack Shampoo on the scalp for 2–5 minutes, from application to rinsing. Both the colour effect and Caffeine absorption improve with longer exposure time.

Alpecin Grey Attack Shampoo helps to darken hair. However, depending on your original hair colour, the result may not meet expectations—for example, if previously blonde hair appears darker.

Warning: May cause violet discolouration on white hair.
If unwanted discolouration occurs, discontinue use immediately.

Alpecin Grey Attack Shampoo is not a traditional colourant and can be used without concern for discolouration. It does not stain the scalp or hands during hair washing.

To prevent discolouration of surfaces such as the shower, washbasin, or towels, ensure that shampoo residues are rinsed off thoroughly. Once the hair has been rinsed and dried, no discolouration is expected.

Use Alpecin Grey Attack Shampoo daily, leaving it on for 2–5 minutes from application to rinsing. The colour effect intensifies with longer application times. Depending on your hair length and initial hair colour, the time it takes for the effect to become visible may vary slightly. Generally, the first results can be seen after 3 weeks of daily use.

Alpecin Tuning Shampoo is ideal for men who do not yet have grey hair or are just beginning to notice a few grey strands and want to conceal them. Its colour effect intensifies with each application but washes out with a normal shampoo, as the colour pigments only adhere to the hair's surface.

In contrast, the colour effect of Alpecin Grey Attack Shampoo is significantly stronger. It contains the active ingredient 5,6-DHI, which reacts with oxygen in the air to form colour pigments within the hair. This gradually darkens grey hair without creating a dyed appearance. Unlike Tuning Shampoo, the colour effect of Grey Attack does not wash out.

Alpecin Grey Attack Shampoo is specifically designed for scalp hair. However, the colour effect can also appear on beard hair if used consistently over a longer period and as the beard hair grows to a sufficient length.

The Hybrid Sensitive Caffeine Shampoo combines a particularly gentle and moisturising cleansing of the scalp and hair with the powerful effect of Alpecin Caffeine for the hair roots. It has been specially developed for dry and sensitive scalps. Thanks to its moisturising effect, Alpecin Hybrid Sensitive Caffeine Shampoo is particularly suitable for dry scalps that are prone to small, fine flakes. Scalp itching is reduced.

The Caffeine complex also prevents hereditary hair loss.

More than one in four men experiences a sensitive scalp. Symptoms such as itching, dryness, redness, or a feeling of tightness can occur, depending on individual predisposition. These issues are often linked to dry, sensitive scalps, which may result from underproduction of the sebaceous glands, disrupting the scalp's natural balance.

In such cases, it is crucial to use a shampoo that does not further dry out the scalp. Alpecin Hybrid Sensitive Caffeine Shampoo gently cleanses the hair while moisturising and soothing the scalp. It helps reduce scalp itching and, thanks to its Caffeine complex, strengthens the hair roots and prevents hereditary hair loss.

Many people don’t realise that not all dandruff is the same. To effectively cleanse the scalp and hair and address the issue, it’s important to distinguish between 'dry dandruff' and 'oily dandruff.'

Dry Dandruff
Dry dandruff occurs when the scalp produces too little sebum, causing it to lose its natural balance. This results in small, fine flakes and often an itchy scalp. In such cases, the scalp is dry and flaky.

For a dry scalp, gentle and moisturising cleansing is recommended. Alpecin Hybrid Sensitive Caffeine Shampoo is particularly suitable, thanks to its gentle formulation. It moisturises the scalp and promotes its regeneration.

Oily Dandruff
Oily dandruff tends to be larger, plaque-like flakes and is associated with an oily scalp. For this type of dandruff, Alpecin Double-Effect Caffeine Shampoo is ideal. In the first step, it dissolves encrusted horny cells and thoroughly removes dandruff from the scalp. The effective anti-dandruff ingredients, salicylic acid and piroctone olamine, prevent the formation of new dandruff. In the second step, the Caffeine complex penetrates the hair roots. This prevents hereditary hair loss.

Dry dandruff is caused by a dry scalp. These small, fine flakes appear when the scalp produces insufficient sebum, disrupting its natural balance. This leads to a dry, flaky scalp, often accompanied by itching.

For a dry scalp, gentle and moisturising cleansing is recommended. Alpecin Hybrid Sensitive Caffeine Shampoo is particularly effective due to its gentle formulation. It moisturises the scalp and supports its regeneration.

The two shampoos were developed for different conditions of the scalp. Especially when deciding which shampoo to use for dandruff, it is advisable to take a closer look. What many people do not know is that not all dandruff is the same. In order to make the right choice when it comes to cleansing your hair and scalp, you must differentiate between "oily dandruff" and "dandruff caused by a dry scalp".

Alpecin Double Effect Caffeine Shampoo was developed for oily dandruff. These somewhat larger, plaque-like dandruff flakes are the result of a greasy scalp. In the first step, Alpecin Double-Effect Caffeine Shampoo loosens the crusted cells of the horny layer and thoroughly frees the scalp of dandruff. The effective anti-dandruff agents salicylic acid and piroctone olamine prevent the formation of new dandruff. In the second step, the Caffeine complex penetrates all the way into the hair roots. This prevents hereditary hair loss.

Alpecin Hybrid Sensitive Caffeine Shampoo is particularly suitable for a dry scalp that tends towards "dry dandruff". These small, fine dandruff flakes are often accompanied by an itchy scalp. The gentle shampoo formula of the Hybrid Sensitive Caffeine Shampoo moisturises the dry, weakened scalp and encourages regeneration. This prevents dry dandruff and an annoying itchy scalp. At the same time, the Caffeine complex prevents hereditary hair loss.