Commonly Used Hair Oils in the Black Community: A Narrative Review in Their Use to Treat Androgenetic Alopecia

    April 2023 in “ International Journal of Dermatology ”
    Jewell Dinkins, Callyn Iwuala, Lisa Akintilo, Nkem Ugonabo, Jerry Shapiro, Kristen Lo Sicco, Prince Adotama
    TLDR More research is needed to confirm if popular hair oils effectively treat hair loss.
    This narrative review explores the use of various hair oils within the Black community for treating androgenetic alopecia (AGA), a common form of hair loss. The review highlights the traditional and increasing popularity of hair oils such as castor oil, pumpkin oil, lavender, peppermint, rosemary, and tea tree oil. Despite their widespread use, the authors emphasize the need for more research to determine their efficacy, as most existing studies have been conducted on mice rather than humans. The review aims to provide a better understanding of these oils' potential benefits in treating AGA.
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      in Scalp Massage  48 upvotes 3 years ago
      People discussing their experiences with natural treatments for hair loss, such as essential oils, deep scalp massages, anti-inflammatory measures, and supplements. Most of the replies suggest that these treatments are not effective and recommend medication such as minoxidil or finasteride instead.

      community Hairloss is mentally exhausting

      in Chat  24 upvotes 5 years ago
      The conversation is about the mental toll of hair loss and seeking alternatives to finasteride. Suggestions include using minoxidil, considering pumpkin seed oil, and possibly seeking counseling for body dysmorphic disorder.

      community Why don't more people here use oils?

      in Treatment  23 upvotes 6 years ago
      The conversation discusses using oils like pumpkin seed, rosemary, peppermint, and grape seed oil for hair regrowth, claiming they can be as effective as finasteride or minoxidil without side effects. Some users remain skeptical and prefer proven treatments like minoxidil.

      community Rosemary oil's potency as a dht blocker

      in Research/Science  65 upvotes 2 years ago
      Rosemary extract showed high inhibitory activity against DHT, similar to finasteride and dutasteride, but the conversation includes skepticism about its effectiveness in humans since the study was done on mice and rosemary oil is often considered ineffective based on personal experiences. Some suggest trying rosemary oil alongside other treatments, while others emphasize the difference between the extract used in the study and the oil.

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