The Pathogenesis of Oxidative Stress in Androgenetic Alopecia
January 2025
in “
Dermatologic Therapy
”
TLDR Oxidative stress damages hair follicles and worsens hair loss in androgenetic alopecia.
Oxidative stress significantly contributes to the pathogenesis of androgenetic alopecia (AGA) by damaging hair follicle cells and activating inflammatory pathways, leading to hair follicle atrophy. Androgens like dihydrotestosterone (DHT) exacerbate this stress, worsening hair loss. Antioxidants, including vitamin C, vitamin E, β-carotene, polyphenols, and natural extracts like resveratrol, show promise in neutralizing oxidative stress and improving hair follicle health. Nanomaterials and synthetic antioxidants also hold potential for promoting hair growth. Dietary interventions, such as antioxidant-rich foods and the Mediterranean diet, may reduce AGA risk. However, further research is needed to understand oxidative stress mechanisms and validate the efficacy of these treatments through clinical trials.