What's New in Dermatological Research?

A potential breakthrough in hair loss treatment involves softening hair follicle stem cells, but its effectiveness in humans is uncertain. Users express skepticism, noting past successes in mice that haven't translated to human treatments.

miR-205, a tiny RNA, can stimulate hair growth by softening aging hair follicle stem cells in mice. Future tests aim to see if this can work in humans.

MCL-1 protein may help maintain hair follicles in the growth phase and prevent miniaturization. There is interest in experimental treatments like exosomes, peptides, or stem cell serums to upregulate MCL-1 for hair loss, especially for those not using minoxidil or finasteride.

A gel of keratin microspheres promotes hair follicle growth, showing similar effectiveness to minoxidil in mice. The treatment activates hair growth pathways and reduces inflammation, with potential applications in drug delivery for hair-related disorders.

The user has been using topical finasteride and minoxidil for two years with decent regrowth and recently added microneedling to their routine. They are questioning if the small hairs observed are new regrowth from microneedling or just vellus or miniaturized hairs.

Osteopontin, a protein involved in hair growth on moles, may help with hair loss. However, it is also linked to Alzheimer's, cancer, and bone development, so caution is advised.