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 6 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 on dut/fin/min progress

      in Progress Pictures  176 upvotes 3 weeks ago
      The user experienced significant hair regrowth after 5 months using finasteride, dutasteride, and oral minoxidil, despite initial side effects like erectile dysfunction, which resolved after switching from finasteride to dutasteride. The user reports full recovery of hair density and improved skin condition, though the right temple remains slightly recessed.

      community 5 Months on Minoxidil and Finasteride

      in Is this regrowth?  1796 upvotes 1 month ago
      The user experienced significant hair regrowth after 5 months using Minoxidil and Finasteride, specifically Hims chewables. They noted an increase in depression as a side effect.

    Similar Research

    5 / 1000+ results