Stimulatory Effect of Brazilian Propolis on Hair Growth Through Proliferation of Keratinocytes in Mice

In the 2014 study, Brazilian propolis was found to stimulate hair growth in mice by inducing the anagen phase more rapidly and promoting keratinocyte proliferation in the hair matrix and epidermis. The study used two in vivo mouse models, with 10 mice in the gentle anagen induction model and 6 mice in the forced anagen induction model, along with control groups. Propolis-treated mice showed hair growth at around 10 days post-shaving, compared to 18 days for the control group, and a higher percentage of hair coverage at 21 days. Histological analysis confirmed the increase in keratinocyte proliferation without abnormalities in hair follicles. The study concluded that propolis could be a potential adjunct to hair growth treatments like minoxidil or finasteride and called for further research to identify the active components of propolis and their clinical application. The research was funded by the Yamada Bee Company, Inc. and the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science.