TLDR Topical adenosine may effectively and safely treat hair loss.
This systematic review evaluated the efficacy and safety of topical adenosine for treating androgenetic alopecia (AGA) in adults. It included four trials with a total of 260 participants who used 0.75% topical adenosine lotion twice daily for 6-12 months. Comparators were placebo, topical niacinamide, and topical minoxidil. Results showed significant improvement in the thick hair ratio and higher participant satisfaction with topical adenosine. Few to no adverse effects were reported. The review concluded that topical adenosine might be an effective and safe adjunct or alternative treatment for AGA, though more studies are needed to confirm these findings.
10 citations,
October 2015 in “Journal of Dermatology” Adenosine treatment thickens hair in Caucasian men with hair loss.
11 citations,
April 2015 in “International Journal of Cosmetic Science” Adenosine helps grow thicker hair in Japanese men with hair loss.
21 citations,
July 2014 in “British Journal of Dermatology” Hair thickness matters more than density for baldness in Japanese men over 25.
33 citations,
December 2008 in “Journal of Dermatology” Adenosine lotion improves hair growth and thickness in women with hair loss.
76 citations,
December 2006 in “Journal of Dermatological Science” Japanese women typically start experiencing hair loss after 40, with reduced hair density and thickness being the main factors.
27 citations,
December 2005 in “Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology” Niacin derivatives may increase hair fullness in women with hair loss.
123 citations,
February 2002 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” Minoxidil can cause skin allergy; use alternative solvents or treatments if allergic.
36 citations,
January 1998 in “Journal of Dermatological Treatment” The questionnaire effectively measures men's perceived hair growth and can distinguish between different treatments and dosages.
12 citations,
February 2003 in “PubMed”
