Hair Growth Stimulatory Effect by a Combination of 5-Aminolevulinic Acid and Iron Ion

    November 2008 in “ International Journal of Dermatology ”
    Yuki Morokuma, Masashi Yamazaki, Takeyasu Maeda, Ikuyo Yoshino, Masahiro Ishizuka, Tohru Tanaka, Ito Yoshiyasu, Ryoji Tsuboi
    Image of study
    TLDR A mix of 5-aminolevulinic acid and iron ion can speed up hair growth.
    In 2008, a study found that a combination of 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) and iron ion significantly stimulated hair growth in both male mice and 20 male patients with androgenic alopecia. The mice showed significant hair growth by day 15, comparable to the effects of 5% minoxidil, while the male patients experienced accelerated hair growth after applying the mixture to their scalp for 1 month. Despite these positive outcomes, no increase in keratinocyte or fibroblast proliferation was observed in vitro, indicating that the hair growth mechanism did not involve direct cell proliferation. The exact mechanism remains unknown, but the results suggest potential for the 5-ALA and iron ion combination as a new alopecia treatment, warranting further research.
    Discuss this study in the Community →

    Research cited in this study

    4 / 4 results

    Related Community Posts Join

    6 / 1000+ results

      community How does low level laser therapy?

      in Chat  5 upvotes 2 months ago
      Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is debated for hair regrowth, with some users suggesting it should be combined with treatments like minoxidil and finasteride for effectiveness. Many users express skepticism about LLLT's efficacy and cost, emphasizing the need for the correct wavelength and quality devices.

      community 5 months with Fin and Minoxidil combo

      in Is this regrowth?  75 upvotes 4 days ago
      A 25-year-old experienced significant hair regrowth after 5 months using a combination of topical minoxidil and finasteride, along with vitamin D supplements. They advise against stopping minoxidil to prevent hair loss recurrence.

      community 5% min + 1mg fin + dermaroller - 2,5 months

      in Progress Pictures  51 upvotes 6 days ago
      The user is using 5% minoxidil, 1mg finasteride, and a 1.5mm dermaroller 1-2 times a week for hair growth, noting improved growth speed and density. They avoid applying minoxidil immediately after dermarolling due to skin irritation.

      community 5 Months Dutasteride 0.5mg 1x Daily Results

      in Progress Pictures  28 upvotes 3 weeks ago
      A user shared their positive results after 5 months of taking Dutasteride 0.5 mg daily, with no side effects, and recently started taking 2.5 mg oral Minoxidil. They reported thicker hair and no issues like brain fog.

    Similar Research

    5 / 1000+ results