Seeing too much hair on your brush lately? Procapil might help your strands hang on longer

Finding too much hair on your brush each morning can be unsettling. Hair loss is a common experience, but that doesn’t make it any less distressing. It can be linked to multiple factors: hormonal changes, stress, poor nutrition, or simply the passage of time. In recent years, a cosmetic alternative has gained traction in addressing thinning hair: Procapil.

But what exactly is Procapil, and how effective is this formula? In this article, we’ll explore its composition, scientific evidence, and how viable it really is as a strategy to reduce hair loss.

What is Procapil and how is it supposed to work?

Procapil is a cosmetic compound developed by the French company Sederma. It’s designed to combat hair follicle aging and, in doing so, help reduce hair loss. Its formula combines three active ingredients: biotinoyl tripeptide-1, apigenin, and oleanolic acid. **Each targets a different aspect of the hair loss process. ** Apigenin is a plant-based flavonoid with anti-inflammatory properties found naturally in foods like parsley and chamomile. Oleanolic acid, meanwhile, is a plant-derived compound that inhibits 5-alpha-reductase—an enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone associated with hair loss. Lastly, biotinoyl tripeptide-1 stimulates cellular activity in the hair follicle, promoting anchorage and growth.

What does “might help your strands hang on longer” actually mean?

When we say a treatment "might help your strands hang on longer," we’re referring to its ability to strengthen hair and prevent it from falling out so easily. In the case of Procapil, its formula is designed to improve follicle health and reinforce the hair’s anchorage to the scalp, which can reduce the number of hairs lost during the growth cycle.

It’s important to clarify that “hang on longer” doesn’t mean hair will stop falling out completely or that the treatment will instantly reverse baldness. Instead, the goal is to support the hair growth cycle—meaning strands stay in the growth phase for longer before shedding.

This translates into hair that, over time, may appear thicker and stronger, since hair follicles won’t enter the telogen (resting) phase as quickly, during which hair naturally falls out. In other words, Procapil doesn’t promise miracles, but its blend of ingredients has the potential to give your hair more time to grow healthily before falling, making it look fuller with less visible loss over time.

And what about the science? Are there studies to support its effectiveness?

One of the most cited studies on Procapil’s effectiveness was funded by Sederma and published in 2007. The clinical, randomized, placebo-controlled trial lasted four months and involved 35 men with signs of androgenetic alopecia (common male pattern baldness). Participants applied a topical lotion with Procapil once daily. Hair density was assessed through dermoscopy and standardized photographic analysis. Results showed a 46% improvement in hair density in the Procapil group compared to the placebo group. However, the study has major limitations: the sample size was small, the duration relatively short, and it was funded by the product’s manufacturer, which can introduce bias. Moreover, it hasn’t been replicated by independent institutions.

Studies on individual ingredients

Each of Procapil’s ingredients has been studied individually. For instance, a 2011 study in Phytotherapy Research analyzed oleanolic acid’s effects on human hair follicle cells. Researchers observed a significant inhibition of 5-alpha-reductase in cell cultures, suggesting it may reduce DHT production. However, this was an in vitro study (conducted in the lab, not on humans), which limits its real-world applicability.

As for apigenin, a 2015 study in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology indicated that this flavonoid can stimulate scalp vascularization in animal models—a key factor, since better circulation may support follicle health. However, clinical studies in humans evaluating its effect on hair loss are still lacking. Finally, biotinoyl tripeptide-1—a synthetic peptide—has shown some ability to strengthen hair anchorage in animal models and lab studies, but peer-reviewed publications are limited. Most available data come from the manufacturer.

Procapil and its formula companions: Redensyl and Capixyl

Many products on the market combine Procapil with other active ingredients like Redensyl and Capixyl, aiming to harness possible synergies between different mechanisms. Redensyl, for example, contains a molecule called dihydroquercetin-glucoside (DHQG), which stimulates hair follicle stem cells, according to a 2014 in vitro study published by the company Induchem. Capixyl, meanwhile, combines acetyl tetrapeptide-3 and red clover extract, and also works by inhibiting 5-alpha-reductase and improving follicle anchorage.

Although all three compounds—Procapil, Redensyl, and Capixyl—target hair loss through different pathways (cellular stimulation, improved circulation, hormonal control), it’s important to note that no independent clinical studies have yet evaluated the effectiveness of these substances when used together.

Keywords and marketing strategies: how is Procapil promoted?

When reviewing Procapil-containing products on platforms like Amazon, it’s clear that brands use language full of promises: “strengthens follicles,” “stimulates growth,” “reverses hair loss,” “visible density,” or “residue-free.” While appealing, these claims are not always backed by strong clinical studies. Such products are often marketed as “natural,” “safe,” and “free from side effects,” which can create the false impression that their efficacy is well established. However, it’s important for consumers to read critically and consult reliable sources before assuming guaranteed results.

Unlike minoxidil or finasteride—both FDA-approved treatments for androgenetic alopecia—Procapil is not a drug, but a cosmetic ingredient. This means its use is geared toward strengthening hair, not medically treating baldness. The FDA has not approved Procapil for treating any form of alopecia.

Some small comparative studies (not published in high-impact journals) have suggested that combining minoxidil with Procapil might produce a synergistic effect. However, there are still no robust, large-scale, double-blind studies to validate this finding.

User Experiences

Community feedback on Procapil, a topical ingredient promoted for hair loss, is mixed, reflecting both skepticism and cautious optimism. In a 2022 post titled “Procapil - Has anyone heard of it?,” users were curious about its mechanism, particularly its inclusion of Apigenin and Oleanolic acid. One commenter questioned its actual efficacy, expressing doubt over how it stacks up to more established treatments like minoxidil or finasteride.

In a highly upvoted 2019 thread titled “Procapil is better than minoxidil,” the original poster claimed superior results using Procapil, prompting discussion. Responses were split: some users argued it might work synergistically when combined with other compounds like RU58841 or The Ordinary's Multi-Peptide Hair Serum, while others considered it marketing hype lacking sufficient clinical evidence. A few mentioned they switched to natural DHT blockers (e.g., saw palmetto, pumpkin seed oil) alongside Procapil but didn’t see significantly better results compared to conventional drugs.

Another thread from April 2024, titled “Why is Procapil not preferred?”, questioned its lower popularity. One user suggested Procapil might have fewer side effects than minoxidil, but admitted that clear user-based results are rare. The lack of widespread clinical endorsement was also mentioned as a reason for its limited use.

More positive feedback came from a user in 2021 who, at age 18, used a combination of Procapil and 5% minoxidil for two months. They reported visual improvements and shared progress photos, receiving support from others who found similar combinations mildly effective. Yet, some cautioned that two months is too short to draw strong conclusions.

A female user in 2023 who had stopped minoxidil due to allergic reactions turned to a serum containing Procapil and procyanidin B2. She described mild improvement and asked the community for help with scalp care. Several users replied with product suggestions (like non-sulfate shampoos) and emphasized realistic expectations with natural ingredients. Another community discussion focused on blends, such as 5% Capixyl and 3% Redensyl + Procapil. While some expressed interest, most replies indicated limited long-term success. Others pointed out that Procapil and similar peptides work best in early-stage hair loss or as adjuncts rather than primary therapies.

Finally, some users bluntly dismissed Procapil as ineffective. In a 2022 thread evaluating Procapil, Capixyl, and Redensyl, one commenter said these compounds are “mostly useless for androgenic alopecia,” especially compared to minoxidil and finasteride, which have strong clinical backing. Overall, community sentiment suggests that while Procapil may offer some benefits—especially in combination with other ingredients—its standalone efficacy is limited, and evidence-based treatments like minoxidil and finasteride remain more trusted.

So, can Procapil really help you keep your hair?

The short answer is: maybe. Procapil shows promise as a cosmetic aid to strengthen hair and support follicle health. Its ingredients have preliminary support from early studies, and many users report improvements in hair texture and appearance. However, its effectiveness in reversing or halting significant hair loss remains unproven in large, independent clinical trials.

If you’re experiencing noticeable hair loss, it’s best to consult a dermatologist. In some cases, medical evaluation may uncover treatable causes like iron deficiency, hormonal imbalances, or autoimmune conditions. In others, a combined approach may be recommended—where Procapil could play a role as part of a broader hair care routine.

References

Sederma. (2007). Procapil™: Clinical study on hair loss prevention. Recuperado de https://www.rekze.ro/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/study3.pdf

Zhang, Y., Wang, L., Liu, Y., & Wang, Y. (2020). Oleanolic acid ameliorates benign prostatic hyperplasia by inhibiting 5α-reductase and androgen receptor signaling. Journal of Natural Medicines, 74(3), 544–552. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11418-020-01392-2 PubMed

Farachem. (s.f.). Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1. Recuperado de https://farachem.com/product-name/biotinoyl-tripeptide-1/

Cureskin. (n.d.). Cureskin Hair Solution Serum with Procapil, Niacinamide, Peptides to Strengthen Hair. Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT9QVGVY/

EKMIVEDA. (n.d.). Hair Growth Serum with Redensyl, Procapil and Ayurvedic Herbs Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DV9XTQS4/

Pro-sk. (n.d.). Intense Hair Serum with Redensyl, Procapil & Ashwagandha https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DZP4XVJQ/

Keshananda. (n.d.). Hair Serum with Procapil & Redensyl for Thinning Hair https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CXQ113QF/

BondiBoost. (n.d.). BondiBoost Procapil Hair Tonic – Leave-In Treatment https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B9ZLC7J4/

Lashika. (n.d.). Hair Regrowth Treatment with Procapil – Residue-Free Formula https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT2ZMQFH/

Prokpil. (n.d.). Prokpil Hair Loss Treatment – Tratamiento de Mantenimiento Capilar con Procapil https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06W2P93PB/