Do Non-Prescription Products Help in Managing Androgenic Alopecia?

Publication Date:
2024-12-06

Institutions involved:

Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Mediprobe Research Inc., London, Ontario, Canada
School of Pharmacy, BRAC University, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Participants:
Total participants across studies: ~400, with diagnosed androgenetic alopecia or telogen effluvium

Duration:
Most studies lasted 4 to 6 months, up to 12 months.

Dosage:
Various treatments and dosages.

Key Takeaways:

Apple polyphenols help regrow hair consistently, with clinical trials showing increased hair density and thickness in both men and women.

These botanical extracts offer distinct mechanisms of action. Combining them may amplify therapeutic effects.

From this paper: “Procyanidin B-2 demonstrated statistically significant increases in hair count in all four included trials.”

Apple Poly Summary:

Why Is This Study Important? Hair loss affects millions and often leads to psychological distress. While FDA-approved treatments exist, they come with limitations and side effects. This study systematically reviews botanical alternatives—many of which show promising results with fewer adverse effects. Apple procyanidins stand out in clinical results, and the quality and number of clinical trials. This study also presents a number of other natural compounds that may benefit patients in combined treatments.

You Should Know: Out of 8 compounds tested in randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials (RCT's) reviewed, apple procyanidins and rosemary oil stood out as being the most effective.”

In Plain English: This study looked at plant-based treatments for hair loss and found that some, like apple extract and rosemary oil, can help regrow hair safely. These natural options might work as well as traditional treatments but with fewer side effects.

For Medical Professionals: This systematic review evaluates RCTs involving botanical agents for androgenetic alopecia and telogen effluvium. Procyanidin B-2, rosemary oil, and cetirizine demonstrated statistically significant improvements in hair density and count, with minimal adverse events. The review supports further investigation into phytotherapeutics as adjuncts or alternatives to conventional therapies.

Abstract:

Hair loss is a common condition with limited treatment options. Botanical agents have emerged as potential alternatives to conventional therapies. This systematic review evaluates the efficacy and safety of botanical agents for hair loss treatment. A comprehensive literature search identified randomized controlled trials assessing botanical agents including procyanidin B-2, cetirizine, rosemary oil, saw palmetto, and others. The review highlights promising results for several botanicals, particularly procyanidin B-2 and rosemary oil, with favorable safety profiles. Further large-scale studies are needed to confirm these findings and establish standardized treatment protocols.

“Do Non-Prescription Products Help in Managing Androgenic Alopecia?” Published in Skin Appendage Disorders, Volume 11, 2025; DOI: 10.1159/000542880