An Updated Etiology of Hair Loss and the New Cosmeceutical Paradigm in Therapy: Clearing the Big Eight Strikes

This review synthesizes a decade of research into the causes of hair loss and the new cosmeceutical approach to hair rejuvenation. It identifies eight main causes of hair loss, including androgen imbalance, prostaglandin imbalance, overactive glucose metabolism, bacterial or fungal overgrowth, inflammation, fibrosis, circulation or metabolism problems, and malnutrition. These factors are particularly relevant to nine categories of hair loss, including androgenetic alopecia and female pattern hair loss. The review suggests that cosmeceuticals with the potential to address all eight causes utilize bioactive peptides and plant compounds that are either flavonoids or sterols/triterpenes. The authors also provide suggestions on how to improve scalp and hair health using the cosmeceutical approach. The document also discusses the complex mechanisms behind hair loss, particularly androgenetic alopecia (AGA), and the role of various factors such as DHT, prostaglandins, and glucose metabolism. It also discusses the use of finasteride, a 5α-reductase inhibitor, in treating AGA, but notes that it is associated with adverse events. The document also discusses other factors that can trigger or exacerbate hair loss, referred to as 'potentiators' of hair loss. The document concludes that cosmeceuticals targeting all eight factors are likely to be more effective, but such comprehensive products are rare in the market.