Hair follicles are mostly dormant but can be reactivated with treatments like minoxidil, finasteride, and microneedling. A new drug, PP405, shows promise for hair regrowth but may not be available until 2027-2028.
PP405, developed by Pelage Pharmaceuticals, can reactivate dormant hair follicle stemcells and increase hair growth by 20% in eight weeks, unlike minoxidil or finasteride. However, skepticism remains about its effectiveness and availability, with concerns about funding and the timeline for broader access.
The conversation discusses concerns about the potential risk of cancer from creating new hair follicles through microneedling, due to stem cell division. Specific treatments mentioned include microneedling, caffeine-containing anti-hair loss shampoos, and other unspecified topicals.
Dr. Kang-Yell Choi's company, CK Regeon, is developing a drug called KY19382 for hair regeneration, which involves creating fine wounds to activate stemcells. The drug is in the formulation development stage, targeting markets like the US and Korea.
PP405 is a new hair loss treatment in phase 2 trials that may promote hair growth by increasing lactate production and activating hair follicle stemcells. It could potentially replace hormone-disrupting treatments like Minoxidil and finasteride.