Do Kimchi and Cheonggukjang Probiotics as a Functional Food Improve Androgenetic Alopecia? A Clinical Pilot Study

Japanese and Korean diets provide sufficient minerals like folate, B12, vitamin D, zinc, iron, and copper, which may reduce androgenic alopecia. High soy consumption, containing phytoestrogens, might also contribute to lower hair loss in these regions.

Probiotics like L. reuteri ATCC PTA 6475 and B. longum BB536 may improve hair growth and density by reducing inflammation and reversing DHT damage. The user is trialing these probiotics personally, ordering them from the U.S. to Canada, and plans to continue if no adverse effects occur.

L. reuteri, a probiotic, is being explored for its potential benefits in treating androgenic alopecia, possibly enhancing finasteride's effects and reducing inflammation. The user combines this with finasteride, oral minoxidil, and other supplements, noting some improvement in hair loss.

The regimen for hair loss includes topical finasteride, clascoterone, tretinoin, minoxidil, oral saw palmetto, beta-sitosterol, vitamin D, microneedling, and anti-fungal shampoo. Expected benefits are increased hair growth and density, with considerations for potential skin irritation and interactions between treatments.

The conversation discusses using a multimodal approach to treat androgenic alopecia, including substances like gamma-linolenic acid, DHA, sulforaphane, melatonin, cetirizine, astaxanthin, fisetin, apigenin, curcumin, limonene, genistein, and berberine. Users also mention using ketoconazole, minoxidil, and low-level laser therapy (LLLT) as part of their hair loss treatment regimens.

Ketoconazole can slightly improve hair density and is best used as an adjunct to treatments like finasteride and minoxidil. It helps with scalp health but won't stop androgenetic alopecia on its own.