Hair Cortisol: What We Know and What We Don't (Yet)

Prolactin and cortisol are identified as key factors in hair loss, with stress hormones impacting hair shedding. Finasteride and minoxidil are effective treatments, while DHT's role and individual sensitivity are significant factors.

A potential treatment for alopecia involving a protein that calms hair follicles has shown promise in rats, but skepticism remains about its applicability to humans. Many users express doubt about the timeline for effective hair loss treatments, comparing it to past unfulfilled promises.

The conversation discusses the hypothesis that a lack of the enzyme 3-alpha hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3α-HSD) on the scalp may contribute to hair loss by allowing DHT to accumulate. Despite interest in this theory, no recent research has been conducted, and current treatments like finasteride and minoxidil remain the most supported options.

Corticosterone inhibits GAS6, affecting hair follicle stem-cell activity, with potential implications for stress-related hair loss. Ashwagandha and Vitamin K are suggested for reducing cortisol, but their effectiveness is debated.

MCL-1 is important for hair follicle stem cell survival, but its impact on human hair regrowth is unclear. Minoxidil and finasteride are the main treatments, with doubts about new discoveries leading to effective human solutions soon.

Body hair is more resilient than scalp hair due to different gene expressions and DHT sensitivity. Treatments like minoxidil and finasteride are used for hair loss, but they have varying effects on body and scalp hair.