Preliminary Effects of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy on Hair Follicle Characteristics in Healthy Subjects
February 2026
in “
Bioengineering
”
Studysummary This preliminary study suggests that hyperbaric oxygen therapy may improve scalp health and follicle activation in healthy adults, with subjective assessments showing significant improvements despite mixed objective findings.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
This preliminary study examined the effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) on hair follicle characteristics in 9 healthy adults over three months. The study found potential regenerative effects of HBOT on hair follicles, with subjective assessments indicating significant improvements in scalp appearance, hair growth, thickness, and reduced shedding. Objective measurements showed trends of improvement in hair health, including increased follicle density and hair volume, although these changes were not statistically significant. A significant reduction in hair shaft thickness was observed, suggesting early-stage hair regeneration. However, the small sample size and lack of a control group limit the ability to draw definitive conclusions, and further research with larger, controlled trials is needed.
