Retin-A Hair Growth
Several factors play a role in hair loss--especially in men--including genetics, illness, hormonal imbalance, and drug side effects. Although there is no real "cure" for balding, hair loss treatments help slow the process and even stimulate new growth. Does this Spark an idea?
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The Root of Hair Loss
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Balding and thinning lies in the hair's root, or follicle, where keratinization occurs. This is the process by which cells are converted into the protein hair shaft. According to RegrowHair.com, it's still unclear whether the follicle actually diminishes and dies or just miniaturizes to the point of inactivity, causing hair growth to cease.
Retin-A
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A commonly prescribed drug for skin rejuvenation and various related conditions, Retin-A helps maximize the results of minoxidil, the common hair regrowth drug. Used topically, Retin-A enhances the benefits of Rogaine, the name brand minoxidil solution.
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How It Works
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Besides aiding in the absorption of minoxidil into the hair's follicle, Retin-A helps control the follicle's sebum production. Sebum is the skin's natural oil, and it's overproduction can "drown" the hair follicle, causing hair to fall out or stop regrowing.
Sebum Blockages
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Known for its exfoliating power, Retin-A promotes skin cell turnover on the scalp, removing dead skin cells that block the sebaceous glands and follicle. The lack of cell turnover causes sebum to build up to the detriment of the hair follicle.
Retin-A and DHT
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Dihydrotestosterone, or DHT, are androgen hormones associated with male biological characteristics, especially scalp balding. Sebum contains DHT, and its build-up in the hair follicle causes it to be reabsorbed by the scalp, leading to increased hair loss. Retin-A unclogs the pores, reducing DHT accumulation.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Vox Efx
