Melatonin And Hair Physiology: Reasons And Clinical Efficacy Data As A Topical Treatment Of Androgenic Alopecia

The document from March 16, 2014, explores melatonin's role in hair physiology and its effectiveness as a topical treatment for androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Melatonin, known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, is synthesized in the skin and has receptors in skin cells, influencing hair growth regulation. It can extend the anagen phase of hair growth and may protect hair follicle cells from oxidative stress. Clinical studies have demonstrated that topical melatonin can counteract the effects of testosterone on hair follicles. A randomized double-blind study with 40 women and another study with 31 men showed significant increases in hair density after six months of melatonin use. Additionally, an open clinically controlled study with 35 men revealed significant improvements in hair count and density after three and six months. Topical melatonin solutions, often combined with ingredients like ginkgo biloba and biotin, have been effective in reducing hair loss and promoting hair growth in men and women with early-stage AGA. However, the document does not provide the number of participants for all studies mentioned, which is crucial for evaluating the strength of the evidence.