Valproic acid

    aka
    • valproate

    TLDR an anticonvulsant repurposed for hair loss via histone inhibition

    Valproic acid, first made in 1881 used since 1962, is primarily known for its use as an anticonvulsant and mood-stabilizing drug, and has recently garnered attention in the field of dermatology for its potential effects on hair growth and alopecia treatment. Scientifically, valproic acid operates by increasing the levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, but its effects on hair growth are thought to be mediated through different pathways, possibly involving the inhibition of histone deacetylases (HDAC) which can influence gene expression beneficial for hair follicle health and activity.

    Research has highlighted valproic acid's capacity to induce hair regeneration in both animal models and human dermal papilla cells by activating alkaline phosphatase activity—an enzyme associated with hair growth and follicle development. Studies indicate that valproic acid can promote hair growth by elongating the hair shaft and delaying the transition to the catagen (regression) phase, alongside promoting the anagen (growth) phase in vivo, providing a promising avenue for alopecia treatment.

    The community's engagement with valproic acid reflects a keen interest in its utility for hair loss, with discussions often revolving around personal experiences and the exploration of valproic acid as a novel treatment. Community members share anecdotal evidence of its efficacy, particularly when used topically, noting improvements in hair density and growth. However, experiences vary, and while some individuals report positive outcomes, others call for more extensive research to conclusively determine its effectiveness and optimal application methods.

    In summary, valproic acid presents a promising, albeit still under-researched, option for treating alopecia by potentially enhancing hair growth and follicle health through mechanisms distinct from its neurological effects. While initial research and community experiences offer hope, the call for further scientific investigation is clear to fully establish valproic acid's role in hair loss therapy.

    Research

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      community Anyone used Topical Calcipotriol (cream) or VPA ( Valproic Acid)

      in Chat  7 upvotes 3 years ago
      The conversation discusses using topical Calcipotriol and Valproic Acid for hair loss, focusing on their mechanisms involving the VDR receptor and Wnt/beta-catenin pathway. Specific treatments mentioned are Minoxidil, Finasteride, and RU58841.

      community Topical VPA - Anyone experiences here?

      in Question  2 upvotes 6 years ago
      The conversation is about using topical valproic acid (VPA) for hair loss, focusing on its application method, usage frequency, and combination with other treatments like micro-needling. No specific experiences with VPA were shared.

      community Figuring out my own experimental protocol

      in Treatment  9 upvotes 1 year ago
      User tries dermapen for hair loss and plans to use non-mainstream topicals like c60, ghk-cu, and ptd-dbm with valproic acid. They also use a head massager and modified LLLT belt for additional treatment.

      community Here is my hair regrowth plan

      in Treatment  4 upvotes 4 years ago
      The user's hair regrowth plan includes topical treatments (RU58841, azelaic acid, ketoconazole), oral supplements (Gia Herbs, castor oil), microneedling, PTD-DBM peptide with valproic acid, red light therapy, inversion table with scalp massage, and platelet-rich fibrin injections. Commenters suggest that finasteride and minoxidil are essential treatments for male pattern hair loss, which are missing from the plan.

      community Thoughts on a previous stack m

      in Product  2 upvotes 12 hours ago
      The conversation discusses past and current hair loss treatments, with the user reflecting on expensive peptide treatments like topical Dutasteride, Latanoprost, and others, which were ultimately deemed less effective than oral Dutasteride and Minoxidil. The user now prefers the latter due to their cost-effectiveness and efficacy.

      community Pre and Post Dermarolling Routine?

      in Microneedling  18 upvotes 4 years ago
      The conversation is about a hair loss treatment routine involving dermarolling, finasteride, minoxidil, and natural oils. Suggestions include using shorter needles for better absorption of treatments and longer needles less frequently for hair follicle regeneration.