Discover your options

ABS-201 is an experimental antibody from Absci designed to block the prolactin receptor. It targets the same receptor as HMI-115 but is a separate product from a different company. Absci describes it as engineered with its generative AI platform. See the sourced sections for what has been reported and its limits.

• United States

  Your country

  U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Not yet verified

  We have not yet verified this. Do not rely on it.

  We have not checked the regulatory position of ABS-201 in the United States.

  No source: this has not been checked.

• Australia

  Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Investigational

  Being studied in clinical trials. Not approved.

  The trial registry lists a Phase 1/Phase 2 study with an Australian site as recruiting.

  Source

  Trial registryClinicalTrials.gov record NCT07317544: ABS-201 single and multiple ascending doses in adults with and without androgenetic alopecia(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

• For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Early human studies

  What this means: Only small, early-phase or uncontrolled human studies have been reported. This describes the kind of evidence, not how well the treatment works or whether it suits anyone. About this scale

  Early interim results from a first-in-human study have been announced by the developer; they cover safety and pharmacokinetics rather than hair growth.

  Source

  Company announcementNot peer-reviewedAbsci announcement, 24 June 2026: interim Phase 1 data from the HEADLINE study of ABS-201(opens in a new tab)

• Prolactin receptor blockade. Blocks the receptor for prolactin, a hormone whose role in hair growth is being explored.

• Absci describes ABS-201 as an investigational anti-prolactin receptor (PRLR) antibody engineered with its generative AI platform.

  Source

  Company announcementNot peer-reviewedAbsci announcement, 4 December 2025: first participants dosed in the HEADLINE study of ABS-201(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

Registered trials

• Study of ABS-201 Evaluating Single and Multiple Ascending Doses in Adults With and Without Androgenetic Alopecia

  ClinicalTrials.gov NCT07317544(opens in a new tab) · Phase 1/Phase 2 · Sponsor: Absci Pty Ltd.

  Registry status: Recruiting (checked September 19, 2026)

Reported results

• Safety or pharmacokinetics onlySponsor-reported

  Sponsor reported interim safety and pharmacokinetic data from single-ascending-dose cohorts

  Registered study: NCT07317544 (opens in a new tab) · Phase 1/Phase 2

  The announcement covers data from 32 healthy adult participants in the single-ascending-dose (SAD) cohorts, in which participants were randomised 3:1 to ABS-201 or matched placebo. It reports that, in blinded aggregate interim data, the study drug appeared well tolerated, that no serious adverse events were reported as of the data cutoff, and that all treatment-emergent adverse events were mild except for a single moderate event. One case of headache (SAD 3 cohort) was assessed as unlikely to be related to study treatment. From interim pharmacokinetic data across the four SAD cohorts, the half-life of ABS-201 is estimated to be at least 65 days. No apparent impact of anti-drug antibodies on pharmacokinetics was observed. The announcement also states that the first multiple-ascending-dose cohort, in participants with androgenetic alopecia, has been initiated.

  Limitations

  Sponsor announcement of interim data, not peer-reviewed. The data come from healthy volunteers in the single-ascending-dose part of the study, are blinded and interim, and contain no hair-growth results. Hair-growth (efficacy) results have not been reported.

  Source

  Company announcementNot peer-reviewedAbsci announcement, 24 June 2026: interim Phase 1 data from the HEADLINE study of ABS-201(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

1. Trial registry
   ClinicalTrials.gov record NCT07317544: ABS-201 single and multiple ascending doses in adults with and without androgenetic alopecia(opens in a new tab)

   ClinicalTrials.gov (U.S. National Library of Medicine) · NCT07317544

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Registry wording as at the access date.

2. Company announcementNot peer-reviewed
   Absci announcement, 24 June 2026: interim Phase 1 data from the HEADLINE study of ABS-201(opens in a new tab)

   Absci Corporation · Published June 24, 2026

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Sponsor announcement of interim data, not peer-reviewed.

3. Company announcementNot peer-reviewed
   Absci announcement, 4 December 2025: first participants dosed in the HEADLINE study of ABS-201(opens in a new tab)

   Absci Corporation · Published December 4, 2025

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Sponsor announcement, not peer-reviewed.

AMP-303 is an experimental treatment from Amplifica. It is described as being injected into the skin (intradermally). The announcements checked do not describe how it works, and the results so far come from a developer announcement. See the sourced sections for what has been reported and its limits.

• United States

  Your country

  U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Not yet verified

  We have not yet verified this. Do not rely on it.

  We have not checked the regulatory position of AMP-303 in the United States.

  No source: this has not been checked.

• Australia

  Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Not yet verified

  We have not yet verified this. Do not rely on it.

  We have not checked whether any trial or application exists in Australia.

  No source: this has not been checked.

• For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Early human studies

  What this means: Only small, early-phase or uncontrolled human studies have been reported. This describes the kind of evidence, not how well the treatment works or whether it suits anyone. About this scale

  A first-in-human randomised study has been announced by the developer; a conference abstract has also been listed.

  Source

  Company announcementNot peer-reviewedAmplifica announcement, 30 September 2024: first-in-human study of AMP-303(opens in a new tab)

• The developer describes AMP-303 as a novel intradermal injectable treatment for androgenetic alopecia, formulated specifically for intradermal injection.

  Source

  Company announcementNot peer-reviewedAmplifica announcement, 30 September 2024: first-in-human study of AMP-303(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

• The title of a late-breaking conference abstract describes AMP-303 as a novel polysaccharide. Only the title was read; the abstract text could not be accessed.

  Source

  Conference abstractNot peer-reviewedLate-breaking abstract LB1139: AMP-303 injectable treatment for androgenetic alopecia: a multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled feasibility study of a novel polysaccharide(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

Reported results

• Results reported; primary endpoint not statedSponsor-reported

  Sponsor reported results from a first-in-human study

  The announcement describes a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicentre first-in-human study in men aged 18 to 45 with androgenetic alopecia, grouped by duration of hair loss (3 to 5 years, or 10 years or more), using a paired design in the frontal temporal region with intradermal injection of AMP-303 and placebo. It states that a statistically significant percentage of subjects (P<0.001) showed a greater than 15% increase in non-vellus hair count from baseline compared with placebo at 60 days after treatment, and a greater than 10% increase compared with placebo at 150 days. The sponsor reports that most adverse events were mild, that no severe adverse events were reported, and that local skin reactions were similar between AMP-303 and placebo.

  Limitations

  Sponsor announcement, not peer-reviewed. It does not name a trial registry entry or state the primary endpoint. The result is given as the percentage of subjects above a hair-count threshold rather than as an average change, and absolute hair counts are not given. This was a first-in-human study.

  Source

  Company announcementNot peer-reviewedAmplifica announcement, 30 September 2024: first-in-human study of AMP-303(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

1. Conference abstractNot peer-reviewed
   Late-breaking abstract LB1139: AMP-303 injectable treatment for androgenetic alopecia: a multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled feasibility study of a novel polysaccharide(opens in a new tab)

   Journal of Investigative Dermatology

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Only the title in the journal listing was read; the page refused access, so the abstract text was not checked.

2. Company announcementNot peer-reviewed
   Amplifica announcement, 30 September 2024: first-in-human study of AMP-303(opens in a new tab)

   Amplifica Holdings Group (via PR Newswire) · Published September 30, 2024

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Sponsor announcement, not peer-reviewed. It does not name a trial registry entry or state the primary endpoint.

Baricitinib is a JAK inhibitor: it blocks enzymes that relay signals from immune messengers inside cells. In alopecia areata the immune system attacks hair follicles. The medicine was first developed for rheumatoid arthritis. Because it acts on the immune system, its labelling carries important warnings; see the sourced sections below.

• United States

  Your country

  U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

  For: Alopecia areata

  ApprovedPrescription only

  Approved by the regulator for this condition.

  Brand names: Olumiant

  The FDA letter approves a supplement adding the indication for adult patients with severe alopecia areata (label revised 06/2022). Prescription-only status is taken from the current DailyMed label.

  Source

  Regulator recordFDA supplement approval letter, NDA 207924/S-007: Olumiant (baricitinib), alopecia areata indication(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

• Australia

  Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

  For: Alopecia areata

  Approved

  Approved by the regulator for this condition.

  Brand names: Olumiant

  Registered for alopecia areata on 16 May 2023. The registered indication is severe alopecia areata in adult patients in whom other treatments have failed or are not appropriate and no spontaneous improvement is observed. The poisons schedule was not verified.

  Source

  Regulator recordTGA prescription medicines registration: OLUMIANT (Eli Lilly Australia Pty Ltd)(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

• For: Alopecia areata

  Multiple randomised trials

  What this means: Several randomised controlled trials and/or systematic reviews have been published. This describes the kind of evidence, not how well the treatment works or whether it suits anyone. About this scale

  The US label reports two randomised placebo-controlled trials in severe alopecia areata.

  Source

  Regulator recordOLUMIANT (baricitinib) tablets: FDA prescribing information, revised 06/2022(opens in a new tab)

• Janus kinase (JAK) inhibition. Blocks JAK enzymes, which relay signals from immune messengers inside cells.

• The US label describes baricitinib as a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor. JAKs are intracellular enzymes that transmit signals arising from cytokine or growth factor-receptor interactions on the cell membrane.

  Source

  Regulator recordOLUMIANT (baricitinib) tablets: FDA prescribing information, revised 06/2022(opens in a new tab)· Section 12.1· Checked September 19, 2026

• In two randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials (AA-1, NCT03570749, and AA-2, NCT03899259) in patients with at least 50% scalp hair loss for more than 6 months, 35% (AA-1) and 32% (AA-2) of patients taking 4 mg once daily reached at least 80% scalp hair coverage (SALT score of 20 or less) at Week 36, compared with 5% and 3% on placebo.

  Source

  Regulator recordOLUMIANT (baricitinib) tablets: FDA prescribing information, revised 06/2022(opens in a new tab)· Section 14, Table 14· Checked September 19, 2026

• With 2 mg once daily, 22% (AA-1) and 17% (AA-2) of patients reached a SALT score of 20 or less at Week 36.

  Source

  Regulator recordOLUMIANT (baricitinib) tablets: FDA prescribing information, revised 06/2022(opens in a new tab)· Section 14, Table 14· Checked September 19, 2026

• The label states that SALT score of 20 or less response rates were higher in all dose groups in patients with baseline SALT 50 to 94 than in those with baseline SALT 95 to 100.

  Source

  Regulator recordOLUMIANT (baricitinib) tablets: FDA prescribing information, revised 06/2022(opens in a new tab)· Section 14, Table 15· Checked September 19, 2026

• The Australian indication is limited to severe alopecia areata in adult patients in whom other treatments have failed or are not appropriate and no spontaneous improvement is observed.

  Source

  Regulator recordTGA prescription medicines registration: OLUMIANT (Eli Lilly Australia Pty Ltd)(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

• In the 36-week placebo-controlled alopecia areata trials, the label's table of adverse reactions lists upper respiratory tract infections (19.9% on placebo, 18.4% on 2 mg, 21.3% on 4 mg), headache (5.4%, 5.5%, 6.6%), acne (2.2%, 5.8%, 5.9%), hyperlipidemia (3.0%, 3.6%, 5.9%) and increased blood creatine phosphokinase (1.3%, 0.8%, 4.3%), among others.

  Source

  Regulator recordOLUMIANT (baricitinib) tablets: FDA prescribing information, revised 06/2022(opens in a new tab)· Section 6.1, Table 10· Checked September 19, 2026

• The US label carries a boxed warning headed 'Serious infections, mortality, malignancy, major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), and thrombosis'.

  Source

  Regulator recordOLUMIANT (baricitinib) tablets: FDA prescribing information, revised 06/2022(opens in a new tab)· Boxed warning· Checked September 19, 2026

• The current DailyMed label describes Olumiant as a prescription medicine and carries the statement 'Rx Only'.

  Source

  Regulator recordOLUMIANT (baricitinib) tablet, film coated: DailyMed label(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

1. Regulator record
   FDA supplement approval letter, NDA 207924/S-007: Olumiant (baricitinib), alopecia areata indication(opens in a new tab)

   U.S. Food and Drug Administration · NDA 207924/S-007

   Read on September 19, 2026

2. Regulator record
   OLUMIANT (baricitinib) tablet, film coated: DailyMed label(opens in a new tab)

   U.S. National Library of Medicine (DailyMed)

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Used for the current label's prescription-only statement.

3. Regulator record
   OLUMIANT (baricitinib) tablets: FDA prescribing information, revised 06/2022(opens in a new tab)

   U.S. Food and Drug Administration · NDA 207924

   Read on September 19, 2026

   The label version that added alopecia areata. The document itself states that it may not be the latest approved label.

4. Regulator record
   TGA prescription medicines registration: OLUMIANT (Eli Lilly Australia Pty Ltd)(opens in a new tab)

   Therapeutic Goods Administration

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Entry for the alopecia areata indication: decision date 15 May 2023, registered 16 May 2023.

Clascoterone is an androgen receptor inhibitor. This entry concerns a scalp solution developed by Cosmo Pharmaceuticals for male pattern hair loss. Where reported results come from the developer rather than a peer-reviewed journal, this page says so. See the sourced sections for what has been reported and its limits.

• United States

  Your country

  U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Investigational

  Being studied in clinical trials. Not approved.

  The sponsor's April 2026 announcement describes preparations for a US application. It does not state that one has been submitted.

  Source

  Company announcementNot peer-reviewedCosmo Pharmaceuticals announcement, 15 April 2026: 12-month data from the Phase III clascoterone 5% solution programme(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

• Australia

  Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Not yet verified

  We have not yet verified this. Do not rely on it.

  We have not checked whether any trial or application exists in Australia.

  No source: this has not been checked.

• For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Sponsor-announced trial results

  What this means: Results from larger, late-stage human trials have been announced by the developer but are not yet published in a peer-reviewed journal. This describes the kind of evidence, not how well the treatment works or whether it suits anyone. About this scale

  Two large late-stage randomised trials have been announced by the developer; the results are not yet published in a peer-reviewed journal.

  Source

  Company announcementNot peer-reviewedCosmo Pharmaceuticals announcement, 3 December 2025: topline results from the SCALP 1 and SCALP 2 studies of clascoterone 5% solution(opens in a new tab)

• Androgen receptor antagonism. Blocks the receptor that androgen hormones such as DHT act on.

• The sponsor states that clascoterone 5% topical solution acts by blocking dihydrotestosterone (DHT) directly at the hair follicle.

  Source

  Company announcementNot peer-reviewedCosmo Pharmaceuticals announcement, 3 December 2025: topline results from the SCALP 1 and SCALP 2 studies of clascoterone 5% solution(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

• The headline of the December 2025 announcement refers to US and EU submissions being underway, while the body of the same announcement refers to submissions after completion of the full dataset. The April 2026 announcement refers to preparations for a US application and does not state that one has been submitted.

  Source

  Company announcementNot peer-reviewedCosmo Pharmaceuticals announcement, 3 December 2025: topline results from the SCALP 1 and SCALP 2 studies of clascoterone 5% solution(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

Registered trials

• A Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Clascoterone Solution in Treatment of Male Pattern Hair Loss

  ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05910450(opens in a new tab) · Phase 3 · Sponsor: Cassiopea SpA

  Registry status: Completed (checked September 19, 2026)

• A Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Clascoterone Solution in Treatment of Male Pattern Hair Loss (SCALP2)

  ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05914805(opens in a new tab) · Phase 3 · Sponsor: Cassiopea SpA

  Registry status: Completed (checked September 19, 2026)

Reported results

• Primary endpoint reported as metSponsor-reported

  Sponsor reports a statistically significant improvement in target-area hair count versus vehicle in both Phase III studies

  The announcement covers two identically designed Phase III studies (SCALP 1 and SCALP 2) conducted in the United States and Europe, with 1,465 patients enrolled. It reports relative improvements in target-area hair count (TAHC) versus vehicle of 5.39x (539 percent) in one study and 1.68x (168 percent) in the other, with statistical significance (p<0.05). It states that treatment-emergent adverse events were similar across both studies and similar to vehicle. A patient-reported outcome reached statistical significance in one study and showed a positive trend in the other, and the combined analysis was statistically significant.

  Limitations

  Sponsor announcement (topline results), not peer-reviewed. Only relative improvements are given, without absolute hair counts, so the size of the change in hairs per square centimetre cannot be judged from the announcement. Detailed safety data were not included.

  Source

  Company announcementNot peer-reviewedCosmo Pharmaceuticals announcement, 3 December 2025: topline results from the SCALP 1 and SCALP 2 studies of clascoterone 5% solution(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

• Results reported; primary endpoint not statedSponsor-reported

  Sponsor reports 12-month extension data in patients who responded in the first six months

  The extension evaluated long-term safety and durability of effect in patients who were responders in the first 6-month study period. The announcement states that patients who stayed on clascoterone for the full 12 months had a statistically significant 2.39x improvement in target-area hair count versus patients who received clascoterone for six months and were then switched to vehicle. It describes safety and tolerability across 12 months as comparable to vehicle, with no significant systemic hormonal side effects observed, and reports a statistically significant +24.5% relative improvement in treatment satisfaction versus vehicle groups.

  Limitations

  Sponsor announcement, not peer-reviewed. The extension covered only patients who were responders in the first six months, so it does not represent all participants. The comparison is with patients switched to vehicle, not with continuous vehicle. Only relative figures are given.

  Source

  Company announcementNot peer-reviewedCosmo Pharmaceuticals announcement, 15 April 2026: 12-month data from the Phase III clascoterone 5% solution programme(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

1. Trial registry
   ClinicalTrials.gov record NCT05910450: clascoterone solution in male pattern hair loss (SCALP 1)(opens in a new tab)

   ClinicalTrials.gov (U.S. National Library of Medicine) · NCT05910450

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Registry wording as at the access date.

2. Trial registry
   ClinicalTrials.gov record NCT05914805: clascoterone solution in male pattern hair loss (SCALP 2)(opens in a new tab)

   ClinicalTrials.gov (U.S. National Library of Medicine) · NCT05914805

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Registry wording as at the access date.

3. Company announcementNot peer-reviewed
   Cosmo Pharmaceuticals announcement, 15 April 2026: 12-month data from the Phase III clascoterone 5% solution programme(opens in a new tab)

   Cosmo Pharmaceuticals N.V. · Published April 15, 2026

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Sponsor announcement, not peer-reviewed.

4. Company announcementNot peer-reviewed
   Cosmo Pharmaceuticals announcement, 3 December 2025: topline results from the SCALP 1 and SCALP 2 studies of clascoterone 5% solution(opens in a new tab)

   Cosmo Pharmaceuticals N.V. · Published December 3, 2025

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Sponsor announcement, not peer-reviewed. The company's headline wording is not reproduced here.

Deuruxolitinib is a JAK inhibitor developed for alopecia areata. Its labelling names a contraindication linked to how the body breaks it down (through an enzyme called CYP2C9) and, like other JAK inhibitors, carries important warnings; see the sourced sections below.

• United States

  Your country

  U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

  For: Alopecia areata

  ApprovedPrescription only

  Approved by the regulator for this condition.

  Brand names: Leqselvi

  The FDA letter approves use for adults with severe alopecia areata (label revised 7/2024). The DailyMed label describes it as a prescription medicine.

  Source

  Regulator recordFDA approval letter, NDA 217900: Leqselvi (deuruxolitinib) tablets(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

• Australia

  Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

  For: Alopecia areata

  Not yet verified

  We have not yet verified this. Do not rely on it.

  We have not found or checked a TGA record for this medicine.

  No source: this has not been checked.

• For: Alopecia areata

  Multiple randomised trials

  What this means: Several randomised controlled trials and/or systematic reviews have been published. This describes the kind of evidence, not how well the treatment works or whether it suits anyone. About this scale

  The US label reports two randomised placebo-controlled trials in adults with severe alopecia areata.

  Source

  Regulator recordLEQSELVI (deuruxolitinib) tablets: FDA prescribing information, revised 7/2024(opens in a new tab)

• Janus kinase (JAK) inhibition. Blocks JAK enzymes, which relay signals from immune messengers inside cells.

• The US label states that deuruxolitinib is a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor.

  Source

  Regulator recordLEQSELVI (deuruxolitinib) tablets: FDA prescribing information, revised 7/2024(opens in a new tab)· Section 12.1· Checked September 19, 2026

• In two randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials in adults with severe alopecia areata (AA-1: 351 on deuruxolitinib and 140 on placebo; AA-2: 249 and 127), 29% (AA-1) and 32% (AA-2) of those taking 8 mg twice daily had 20% or less scalp hair loss (SALT score of 20 or less) at Week 24, compared with 1% on placebo in each trial.

  Source

  Regulator recordLEQSELVI (deuruxolitinib) tablets: FDA prescribing information, revised 7/2024(opens in a new tab)· Section 14, Table 3· Checked September 19, 2026

• The US label carries a boxed warning headed 'Serious infections, mortality, malignancy, major adverse cardiovascular events, and thrombosis'.

  Source

  Regulator recordLEQSELVI (deuruxolitinib) tablets: FDA prescribing information, revised 7/2024(opens in a new tab)· Boxed warning· Checked September 19, 2026

• The US label states that deuruxolitinib is contraindicated in patients who are CYP2C9 poor metabolizers and in patients using moderate or strong CYP2C9 inhibitors.

  Source

  Regulator recordLEQSELVI (deuruxolitinib) tablets: FDA prescribing information, revised 7/2024(opens in a new tab)· Section 4· Checked September 19, 2026

• The DailyMed label describes Leqselvi as a prescription medicine.

  Source

  Regulator recordLEQSELVI (deuruxolitinib) tablet, film coated: DailyMed label(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

1. Regulator record
   FDA approval letter, NDA 217900: Leqselvi (deuruxolitinib) tablets(opens in a new tab)

   U.S. Food and Drug Administration · NDA 217900

   Read on September 19, 2026

2. Regulator record
   LEQSELVI (deuruxolitinib) tablet, film coated: DailyMed label(opens in a new tab)

   U.S. National Library of Medicine (DailyMed)

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Used for the label's prescription-medicine statement.

3. Regulator record
   LEQSELVI (deuruxolitinib) tablets: FDA prescribing information, revised 7/2024(opens in a new tab)

   U.S. Food and Drug Administration · NDA 217900

   Read on September 19, 2026

   The document itself may not be the latest approved label.

Dutasteride is a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor, like finasteride, but it acts on both the type 1 and type 2 forms of the enzyme. It was developed for an enlarged prostate. Some clinicians prescribe it for hair loss. How it is regulated for hair loss, what the studies show and its risks are set out in the sourced sections below.

• United States

  Your country

  U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Used off-label

  Approved for something else, and not approved for this condition; a clinician may use it outside its approval.

  Brand names: Avodart

  The FDA-labelled indication for Avodart is symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia; hair loss is not among the labelled indications.

  Source

  Regulator recordAVODART (dutasteride) capsule, liquid filled: DailyMed label(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

• Australia

  Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Used off-labelPrescription only

  Approved for something else, and not approved for this condition; a clinician may use it outside its approval.

  Brand names: Avodart

  The Australian register entry for Avodart (ARTG 90434) lists symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia as its indication; hair loss is not listed. The register classes it as prescription only (Schedule 4). We read this one entry only and did not check other dutasteride products.

  Source

  Regulator recordARTG entry 90434: AVODART dutasteride 500 microgram soft capsule blister pack(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 21, 2026

• For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Multiple randomised trials

  What this means: Several randomised controlled trials and/or systematic reviews have been published. This describes the kind of evidence, not how well the treatment works or whether it suits anyone. About this scale

  A narrative review reports several randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperTreatment options for androgenetic alopecia: efficacy, side effects, compliance, financial considerations, and ethics(opens in a new tab)

• 5-alpha reductase inhibition. Blocks an enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone involved in pattern hair loss.

• A review describes dutasteride as a second-generation 5-alpha reductase inhibitor that inhibits both the type 1 and type 2 isoenzymes of 5-alpha reductase.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperTreatment options for androgenetic alopecia: efficacy, side effects, compliance, financial considerations, and ethics(opens in a new tab)· Section 3.2, Oral dutasteride· Checked September 19, 2026

• The review reports that in a study of 416 men aged 21 to 45, dutasteride produced better hair count results than finasteride over 12 to 24 weeks.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperTreatment options for androgenetic alopecia: efficacy, side effects, compliance, financial considerations, and ethics(opens in a new tab)· Section 3.2, Oral dutasteride· Checked September 19, 2026

• The review states that, similar to finasteride, the side effects of oral dutasteride include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction and ejaculatory dysfunction.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperTreatment options for androgenetic alopecia: efficacy, side effects, compliance, financial considerations, and ethics(opens in a new tab)· Section 3.2, Oral dutasteride· Checked September 19, 2026

• The Avodart label states that dutasteride is contraindicated in women who are pregnant because, in animal studies, it inhibited development of the external genitalia of the male fetus.

  Source

  Regulator recordAVODART (dutasteride) capsule, liquid filled: DailyMed label(opens in a new tab)· Contraindications· Checked September 19, 2026

• The US label for the dutasteride product Avodart lists symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men with an enlarged prostate as its indication. Hair loss is not listed.

  Source

  Regulator recordAVODART (dutasteride) capsule, liquid filled: DailyMed label(opens in a new tab)· Indications and Usage· Checked September 19, 2026

1. Regulator record
   ARTG entry 90434: AVODART dutasteride 500 microgram soft capsule blister pack(opens in a new tab)

   Therapeutic Goods Administration · ARTG 90434

   Read on September 21, 2026

   Register entry: ARTG date 14 November 2002, sponsor GlaxoSmithKline Australia Pty Ltd, status active. The public summary linked from the page (effective date 1 September 2026) lists one specific indication, the management of symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and Poison Schedule S4 (prescription only medicine). Hair loss is not listed. Only this one entry was read; other registered dutasteride products were not checked.

2. Regulator record
   AVODART (dutasteride) capsule, liquid filled: DailyMed label(opens in a new tab)

   U.S. National Library of Medicine (DailyMed)

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Label version dated 17 March 2025.

3. Peer-reviewed paper
   Treatment options for androgenetic alopecia: efficacy, side effects, compliance, financial considerations, and ethics(opens in a new tab)

   Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology · DOI 10.1111/jocd.14537; PMID 34741573 · Published November 6, 2021

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Narrative review; full text read.

Finasteride belongs to a group of medicines called 5-alpha reductase inhibitors. It blocks the enzyme that converts testosterone into DHT. The hair-loss version is a low-dose tablet taken every day and is used in men. How it is regulated, what the studies show and its known risks are set out in the sourced sections below.

• United States

  Your country

  U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  ApprovedPrescription only

  Approved by the regulator for this condition.

  Brand names: Propecia

  The label is for male pattern hair loss in men only. Its 'Rx only' status is taken from the DailyMed label.

  Source

  Regulator recordPROPECIA (finasteride) tablets: FDA prescribing information, revised 07/2022(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

• Australia

  Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  ApprovedPrescription only

  Approved by the regulator for this condition.

  Brand names: Propecia

  Registered on the ARTG since 1998 (Propecia, sponsor Organon Pharma). The prescription-only classification (Schedule 4) is taken from a healthdirect medicine page for a finasteride 1 mg product.

  Source

  Regulator recordARTG entry 62084: PROPECIA finasteride 1.0 mg tablet blister pack(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

• For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Multiple randomised trials

  What this means: Several randomised controlled trials and/or systematic reviews have been published. This describes the kind of evidence, not how well the treatment works or whether it suits anyone. About this scale

  Randomised placebo-controlled trials are described in the US label, and a meta-analysis of randomised trials has been published.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperThe effectiveness of treatments for androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review and meta-analysis(opens in a new tab)

• 5-alpha reductase inhibition. Blocks an enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone involved in pattern hair loss.

• The US prescribing information describes finasteride as a competitive and specific inhibitor of Type II 5α-reductase, an intracellular enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

  Source

  Regulator recordPROPECIA (finasteride) tablets: FDA prescribing information, revised 07/2022(opens in a new tab)· Section 12.1· Checked September 19, 2026

• In the two 12-month studies in men with vertex baldness described in the US label, hair count within a 1-inch (5.1 cm²) circle was 107 hairs higher with finasteride than with placebo at 12 months (p<0.001; 679 men on finasteride, 672 on placebo).

  Source

  Regulator recordPROPECIA (finasteride) tablets: FDA prescribing information, revised 07/2022(opens in a new tab)· Section 14.1· Checked September 19, 2026

• At 12 months, 58% of men in the placebo group had further hair loss (any decrease in hair count from baseline), compared with 14% of men treated with finasteride.

  Source

  Regulator recordPROPECIA (finasteride) tablets: FDA prescribing information, revised 07/2022(opens in a new tab)· Section 14.1· Checked September 19, 2026

• A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised trials included 1 mg finasteride in men and reported that it performed better than placebo for promoting hair growth.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperThe effectiveness of treatments for androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review and meta-analysis(opens in a new tab)· Abstract· Checked September 19, 2026

• The US label states that daily use for three months or more is generally necessary before benefit is observed, and that withdrawal of treatment leads to reversal of the effect within 12 months.

  Source

  Regulator recordPROPECIA (finasteride) tablets: FDA prescribing information, revised 07/2022(opens in a new tab)· Section 2· Checked September 19, 2026

• The US label states that efficacy in bitemporal recession has not been established, and that the studies enrolled men aged 18 to 41 with mild to moderate hair loss (88% Caucasian).

  Source

  Regulator recordPROPECIA (finasteride) tablets: FDA prescribing information, revised 07/2022(opens in a new tab)· Sections 1 and 14.1· Checked September 19, 2026

• The Australian product information text reported by healthdirect states that efficacy has not been demonstrated in men over the age of 41 years, and that finasteride 1 mg is not indicated for use in women or children.

  Source

  Other sourceFinasteride (GH) medicine information: finasteride 1 mg for male pattern hair loss(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

• The same meta-analysis lists high heterogeneity between most of the included studies as a limitation.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperThe effectiveness of treatments for androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review and meta-analysis(opens in a new tab)· Abstract· Checked September 19, 2026

• In the label's controlled 12-month trials, drug-related decreased libido was reported by 1.8% of men taking finasteride and 1.3% taking placebo, erectile dysfunction by 1.3% and 0.7%, and ejaculation disorder by 1.2% and 0.7%. The label states that these effects resolved in men who stopped treatment and in most of those who continued.

  Source

  Regulator recordPROPECIA (finasteride) tablets: FDA prescribing information, revised 07/2022(opens in a new tab)· Section 6.1, Table 1· Checked September 19, 2026

• The label's postmarketing section lists sexual dysfunction that continued after discontinuation of treatment, male infertility and/or poor seminal quality, testicular pain, breast tenderness and enlargement, male breast cancer, and depression, suicidal ideation and behavior. It notes that these reports come from a population of uncertain size, so their frequency and any causal relationship cannot be reliably estimated.

  Source

  Regulator recordPROPECIA (finasteride) tablets: FDA prescribing information, revised 07/2022(opens in a new tab)· Section 6.2· Checked September 19, 2026

• The US label states that finasteride is contraindicated in women who are or may potentially be pregnant, because it may cause abnormalities of the external genitalia of a male fetus, and that such women should not handle crushed or broken tablets.

  Source

  Regulator recordPROPECIA (finasteride) tablets: FDA prescribing information, revised 07/2022(opens in a new tab)· Sections 4 and 5.1· Checked September 19, 2026

• The US label states that finasteride lowers serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels, and that any confirmed increase from the lowest PSA value while taking it may signal prostate cancer and should be evaluated.

  Source

  Regulator recordPROPECIA (finasteride) tablets: FDA prescribing information, revised 07/2022(opens in a new tab)· Section 5.2· Checked September 19, 2026

• The DailyMed label for Propecia carries the statement 'Rx only'.

  Source

  Regulator recordPROPECIA (finasteride) tablet, film coated: DailyMed label(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

1. Regulator record
   ARTG entry 62084: PROPECIA finasteride 1.0 mg tablet blister pack(opens in a new tab)

   Therapeutic Goods Administration · ARTG 62084

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Register entry: ARTG date 26 June 1998, sponsor Organon Pharma Pty Ltd, licence status active. The page links to product information but does not itself state the indication or schedule.

2. Regulator record
   PROPECIA (finasteride) tablet, film coated: DailyMed label(opens in a new tab)

   U.S. National Library of Medicine (DailyMed)

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Used for the label's 'Rx only' statement.

3. Regulator record
   PROPECIA (finasteride) tablets: FDA prescribing information, revised 07/2022(opens in a new tab)

   U.S. Food and Drug Administration · NDA 020788

   Read on September 19, 2026

   The document itself states that it may not be the latest approved label.

4. Peer-reviewed paper
   The effectiveness of treatments for androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review and meta-analysis(opens in a new tab)

   Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology · DOI 10.1016/j.jaad.2017.02.054; PMID 28396101 · Published April 7, 2017

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Abstract read via Europe PMC.

5. Other source
   Finasteride (GH) medicine information: finasteride 1 mg for male pattern hair loss(opens in a new tab)

   healthdirect Australia (Australian Government-funded health information service)

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Not a regulator. Reports the Schedule 4 (prescription only) classification and the product-information indication text for a finasteride 1 mg product.

GT20029 is an experimental topical medicine from Kintor Pharmaceutical. It is described as a PROTAC, a type of molecule designed to mark a target protein (here the androgen receptor) for destruction by the cell. See the sourced sections for what has been reported and its limits.

• United States

  Your country

  U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Not yet verified

  We have not yet verified this. Do not rely on it.

  We have not checked the regulatory position of GT20029 in the United States.

  No source: this has not been checked.

• Australia

  Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Not yet verified

  We have not yet verified this. Do not rely on it.

  We have not checked whether any trial or application exists in Australia.

  No source: this has not been checked.

• For: Androgenetic alopecia

  One randomised trial

  What this means: One randomised controlled trial has been published or reported to a regulator. This describes the kind of evidence, not how well the treatment works or whether it suits anyone. About this scale

  One randomised placebo-controlled study has been published in a peer-reviewed journal.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperEfficacy and safety of topical GT20029 in male patients with androgenetic alopecia: a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 2 study(opens in a new tab)

• Androgen receptor degradation. Designed to mark the androgen receptor for breakdown by the cell, rather than only blocking it.

• The developer describes GT20029 as a first-in-class androgen receptor (AR) proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) that works by targeting AR proteins for degradation via recruitment to E3 ubiquitin ligase.

  Source

  Company announcementNot peer-reviewedKintor Pharmaceutical announcement: China Phase II study of GT20029 in androgenetic alopecia(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

Registered trials

• To Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of GT20029 Solution in the Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA) in Chinese Adult Males

  ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06692465(opens in a new tab) · Phase 2 · Sponsor: Suzhou Kintor Pharmaceutical Inc

  Registry status: Completed (checked September 19, 2026)

Reported results

• Mixed resultsPeer-reviewed

  Published Phase II results: two of the four treated groups improved significantly versus their placebo groups

  Registered study: NCT06692465 (opens in a new tab) · Phase 2

  In a multicentre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in China, 180 men (Hamilton-Norwood IIIv-V) were randomised equally into six groups receiving GT20029 (0.5% or 1.0%) or placebo, once daily or twice weekly, for 12 weeks. The primary endpoint was the change in target-area non-vellus hair count (TAHC) at Week 12. All four GT20029-treated groups showed significant increases in TAHC at Week 12 (p < 0.001). The 0.5% once-daily and 1.0% twice-weekly groups showed significant improvement over their respective placebo groups (p = 0.032 and p = 0.023). Target-area hair width also improved significantly in the 1.0% twice-weekly group versus placebo (p = 0.011). Treatment-emergent adverse events were similar across all groups and mostly mild.

  Limitations

  Three of the authors are affiliated with the sponsor. Only two of the four treated groups differed significantly from their placebo groups on the primary endpoint. Treatment lasted 12 weeks. The authors state that further studies are warranted to confirm the therapeutic potential.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperEfficacy and safety of topical GT20029 in male patients with androgenetic alopecia: a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 2 study(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

1. Trial registry
   ClinicalTrials.gov record NCT06692465: GT20029 solution in Chinese adult males with androgenetic alopecia(opens in a new tab)

   ClinicalTrials.gov (U.S. National Library of Medicine) · NCT06692465

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Registry wording as at the access date.

2. Peer-reviewed paper
   Efficacy and safety of topical GT20029 in male patients with androgenetic alopecia: a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 2 study(opens in a new tab)

   Journal of Dermatological Treatment · DOI 10.1080/09546634.2025.2574304; PMID 41328006 · Published December 2, 2025

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Abstract read via Europe PMC. Three of the authors are affiliated with the sponsor, Kintor Pharmaceuticals.

3. Company announcementNot peer-reviewed
   Kintor Pharmaceutical announcement: China Phase II study of GT20029 in androgenetic alopecia(opens in a new tab)

   Kintor Pharmaceutical

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Used for the company's description of how GT20029 is designed to work. The page date was not confirmed.

Hair follicles are taken from a donor area of the scalp, either individually or as a strip of skin that is then divided, and placed into areas of hair loss. Surgeons use different techniques, and not everyone with hair loss is considered a suitable candidate. See the sourced sections below for how it is done, what studies report, the limitations and the risks.

• United States

  Your country

  U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Not yet verified

  We have not yet verified this. Do not rely on it.

  We have not yet checked how hair transplant surgery is regulated in the United States.

  No source: this has not been checked.

• Australia

  Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Not yet verified

  We have not yet verified this. Do not rely on it.

  We have not yet checked how hair transplant surgery is regulated in Australia.

  No source: this has not been checked.

• For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Early human studies

  What this means: Only small, early-phase or uncontrolled human studies have been reported. This describes the kind of evidence, not how well the treatment works or whether it suits anyone. About this scale

  The studies described in the cited reviews are retrospective and observational rather than randomised controlled trials.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperAndrogenetic alopecia: therapy update(opens in a new tab)

• Follicle relocation (donor dominance). Surgically moves hair follicles from a part of the scalp that pattern hair loss tends to spare to areas of thinning or balding.

• A review describes the concept of donor dominance as being at the heart of hair transplantation: to produce an enduring result, donor follicles must be taken from the part of the scalp spared by the pattern of hair loss, commonly called the safe donor area.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperIs every patient of hair loss a candidate for hair transplant? Deciding surgical candidacy in pattern hair loss(opens in a new tab)· Diffuse unpatterned alopecia section· Checked October 12, 2026

• A review cites a retrospective study of 52 patients with androgenetic alopecia in which patients younger than 33 with Hamilton stage 4a or less showed significant improvement in hair density, and another retrospective study of 1106 male patients in which hair transplantation significantly improved self-esteem and satisfaction with appearance.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperAndrogenetic alopecia: therapy update(opens in a new tab)· Surgical Treatments: Hair Transplant section· Checked October 12, 2026

• A review states that the primary limitation of hair restoration surgery has been access to sufficient quantities of donor hair, and that this, coupled with the fact that hair loss is often progressive, creates challenges.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperHair restoration surgery: challenges and solutions(opens in a new tab)· Conclusion· Checked October 12, 2026

• A review states that not all people with pattern hair loss are candidates for a transplant, listing diffuse unpatterned alopecia, cicatricial alopecia, unstable hair loss, insufficient hair loss, very young age, unrealistic expectations, psychological disorders such as body dysmorphic disorder and trichotillomania, and being medically unfit. It adds that where there is no safe donor area, as in diffuse unpatterned alopecia, transplantation will not be successful and should not be performed.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperIs every patient of hair loss a candidate for hair transplant? Deciding surgical candidacy in pattern hair loss(opens in a new tab)· Abstract; Diffuse unpatterned alopecia section· Checked October 12, 2026

• A review lists the general complications of hair transplants as bleeding, tachycardia, pain, pruritus, scarring and oedema.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperAndrogenetic alopecia: therapy update(opens in a new tab)· Surgical Treatments: Hair Transplant section· Checked October 12, 2026

• A literature review of FUE complications groups them into general postoperative events (pain, oedema, bleeding and infection), donor area complications (hypopigmentation, hypertrophic scarring, epithelial cysts and donor depletion) and recipient site complications (necrosis, folliculitis, persistent redness around the follicles, shedding and unnatural results). It describes complications as rare but able to have significant implications.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperComplications in follicular unit excision hair transplantation: current evidence and practical approaches(opens in a new tab)· Abstract· Checked October 12, 2026

• A review states that a patient with a high degree of miniaturisation in the area to be transplanted is at high risk of shock loss from the surgery that may be permanent, and that where hair loss is progressing rapidly it is better to start medical therapy for 6 to 12 months to stabilise it before surgery.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperIs every patient of hair loss a candidate for hair transplant? Deciding surgical candidacy in pattern hair loss(opens in a new tab)· Patients with unstable hair loss section· Checked October 12, 2026

• A review describes two hair transplant techniques: in follicular unit extraction (FUE), individual hair follicles are extracted and transplanted onto the areas of hair loss, while follicular unit transplantation (FUT) takes donor hair as a single strip through an elliptical incision that is then sutured.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperAndrogenetic alopecia: therapy update(opens in a new tab)· Surgical Treatments: Hair Transplant section· Checked October 12, 2026

• The same review states that FUE is more common because of potential advantages over FUT, such as more harvestable grafts, less postoperative pain and healing time, and the ability to target follicular groups of a specific size and hair shaft diameter, but that FUE has a longer operative time.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperAndrogenetic alopecia: therapy update(opens in a new tab)· Surgical Treatments: Hair Transplant section· Checked October 12, 2026

1. Peer-reviewed paper
   Androgenetic alopecia: therapy update(opens in a new tab)

   Drugs · DOI 10.1007/s40265-023-01880-x; PMID 37166619 · Published May 11, 2023

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Narrative review; full text read.

2. Peer-reviewed paper
   Complications in follicular unit excision hair transplantation: current evidence and practical approaches(opens in a new tab)

   Frontiers in Medicine · DOI 10.3389/fmed.2026.1750989; PMID 41709896 · Published February 3, 2026

   Read on October 12, 2026

   Literature review (PubMed and Embase); abstract read via Europe PMC.

3. Peer-reviewed paper
   Hair restoration surgery: challenges and solutions(opens in a new tab)

   Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology · DOI 10.2147/CCID.S53980; PMID 26203266 · Published July 15, 2015

   Read on October 12, 2026

   Narrative review; full text read via Europe PMC. Single author affiliated with a hair transplant practice.

4. Peer-reviewed paper
   Is every patient of hair loss a candidate for hair transplant? Deciding surgical candidacy in pattern hair loss(opens in a new tab)

   Indian Journal of Plastic Surgery · DOI 10.1055/s-0041-1739247; PMID 34984081 · Published December 20, 2021

   Read on October 12, 2026

   Narrative review; full text read via Europe PMC. Single author affiliated with a hair restoration practice.

HMI-115 is an experimental antibody from Hope Medicine designed to block the prolactin receptor. It is a separate product from ABS-201, which targets the same receptor. See the sourced sections for what has been reported and its limits.

• United States

  Your country

  U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Not yet verified

  We have not yet verified this. Do not rely on it.

  We have not checked the regulatory position of HMI-115 in the United States.

  No source: this has not been checked.

• Australia

  Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Investigational

  Being studied in clinical trials. Not approved.

  A Phase 1 open-label study at Australian sites is recorded as completed in the trial registry.

  Source

  Trial registryClinicalTrials.gov record NCT05324293: open-label study of HMI-115 in male and female patients with androgenetic alopecia(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

• For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Early human studies

  What this means: Only small, early-phase or uncontrolled human studies have been reported. This describes the kind of evidence, not how well the treatment works or whether it suits anyone. About this scale

  A small open-label study has been announced by the developer.

  Source

  Company announcementNot peer-reviewedHope Medicine announcement, 14 January 2024: Phase Ib study of HMI-115 in Australia(opens in a new tab)

• Prolactin receptor blockade. Blocks the receptor for prolactin, a hormone whose role in hair growth is being explored.

• The developer's announcement describes prolactin receptor blockade as the approach being tested in androgenetic alopecia.

  Source

  Company announcementNot peer-reviewedHope Medicine announcement, 14 January 2024: Phase Ib study of HMI-115 in Australia(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

Registered trials

• To Evaluate the Safety, Tolerability and Efficacy in Male and Female with AGA Treated with HMI-115 Over a 24-week Treatment Period

  ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05324293(opens in a new tab) · Phase 1 · Sponsor: Hope Medicine (Nanjing) Co., Ltd

  Registry status: Completed (checked September 19, 2026)

• A Study to Assess the Efficacy and Safety of HMI-115 in Male Subjects With Androgenetic Alopecia

  ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06118866(opens in a new tab) · Phase 2 · Sponsor: Hope Medicine (Nanjing) Co., Ltd

  Registry status: Completed (checked September 19, 2026)

Reported results

• Results reported; primary endpoint not statedSponsor-reported

  Sponsor reported a hair-count increase from baseline in an open-label Phase Ib study

  Registered study: NCT05324293 (opens in a new tab) · Phase 1

  The announcement describes a 24-week open-label study in Australia, led by Professor Rodney Sinclair, in 12 male and 4 female patients with androgenic alopecia. In the male patients, the mean non-vellus target-area hair count increased by 14 hairs per cm² compared with baseline, which the sponsor describes as statistically significant. The sponsor describes HMI-115 as safe and well tolerated.

  Limitations

  Sponsor announcement, not peer-reviewed. The study was open-label with no placebo group and included only 16 participants, so the change cannot be compared with placebo. The primary endpoint was not stated in the announcement.

  Source

  Company announcementNot peer-reviewedHope Medicine announcement, 14 January 2024: Phase Ib study of HMI-115 in Australia(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

• Results not yet reported

  No results located for the randomised Phase 2 study

  Registered study: NCT06118866 (opens in a new tab) · Phase 2

  The registry lists this randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in male participants in China as completed, with 192 participants, and has no posted results. No results announcement was found in the sources checked.

  Limitations

  The absence of a located result does not mean none exists. Check the registry entry and the developer's announcements for updates.

  Source

  Trial registryClinicalTrials.gov record NCT06118866: randomised study of HMI-115 in male subjects with androgenetic alopecia(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

1. Trial registry
   ClinicalTrials.gov record NCT05324293: open-label study of HMI-115 in male and female patients with androgenetic alopecia(opens in a new tab)

   ClinicalTrials.gov (U.S. National Library of Medicine) · NCT05324293

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Registry wording as at the access date.

2. Trial registry
   ClinicalTrials.gov record NCT06118866: randomised study of HMI-115 in male subjects with androgenetic alopecia(opens in a new tab)

   ClinicalTrials.gov (U.S. National Library of Medicine) · NCT06118866

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Registry wording as at the access date; the record had no posted results.

3. Company announcementNot peer-reviewed
   Hope Medicine announcement, 14 January 2024: Phase Ib study of HMI-115 in Australia(opens in a new tab)

   Hope Medicine (via PR Newswire) · Published January 14, 2024

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Sponsor announcement, not peer-reviewed.

Ketoconazole is an antifungal medicine. As a shampoo it is used on the scalp for dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis, and researchers have also studied it in pattern hair loss, usually alongside other treatments. See the sourced sections below for what is known about how it is regulated, the study results and the risks.

• United States

  Your country

  U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Not yet verified

  We have not yet verified this. Do not rely on it.

  We have not yet checked how ketoconazole shampoo is regulated for hair loss in the United States.

  No source: this has not been checked.

• Australia

  Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Not yet verified

  We have not yet verified this. Do not rely on it.

  We have not yet checked how ketoconazole shampoo is regulated for hair loss in Australia.

  No source: this has not been checked.

• For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Early human studies

  What this means: Only small, early-phase or uncontrolled human studies have been reported. This describes the kind of evidence, not how well the treatment works or whether it suits anyone. About this scale

  A systematic review of the published human and animal studies exists; its authors state that randomised controlled trials are still needed.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperTopical ketoconazole for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review(opens in a new tab)

• Ketoconazole (proposed mechanisms). Ketoconazole is an antifungal medicine. Researchers have proposed that it may act on pattern hair loss by reducing scalp microflora and inflammation around the hair follicles, and by acting on the androgen receptor.

• A review of female pattern hair loss states that ketoconazole has an anti-inflammatory property and also acts as an androgen-receptor antagonist, and that the inflammation around affected hair follicles might be related to members of the scalp microflora that mark seborrheic dermatitis.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperFemale pattern hair loss: a clinical, pathophysiologic, and therapeutic review(opens in a new tab)· Treatment section, Ketoconazole· Checked October 12, 2026

• The study compared 2% ketoconazole shampoo with an unmedicated shampoo, used with or without 2% minoxidil, and reported that hair density, hair size and the proportion of anagen follicles improved almost similarly with the ketoconazole and minoxidil regimens.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperKetoconazole shampoo: effect of long-term use in androgenic alopecia(opens in a new tab)· Abstract (Method, Results)· Checked October 12, 2026

• A systematic review that included five human studies (318 participants in total) and two animal studies reported that the human studies found increased hair shaft diameter after ketoconazole use, and that one study reported a significant increase in pilary index.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperTopical ketoconazole for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review(opens in a new tab)· Abstract· Checked October 12, 2026

• The authors of the comparative study stated that the clinical significance of their results awaits further controlled study in a larger group of subjects.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperKetoconazole shampoo: effect of long-term use in androgenic alopecia(opens in a new tab)· Abstract (Conclusion)· Checked October 12, 2026

• The systematic review concluded that randomised controlled trials are needed.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperTopical ketoconazole for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review(opens in a new tab)· Abstract· Checked October 12, 2026

• A review of ketoconazole shampoo for seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp (not hair loss) states that topical ketoconazole may cause itching, dryness, stinging and tingling where it is applied, and that as a shampoo it may alter hair texture or cause dry or oily hair and scalp. It lists less common adverse effects including hair loss, hypersensitivity reactions, impetigo, angioedema, contact dermatitis and headache.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperKetoconazole shampoo for seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp: a narrative review(opens in a new tab)· Adverse Effects of Topical Ketoconazole section· Checked October 12, 2026

• The same review states that topical ketoconazole is contraindicated in anyone with a history of hypersensitivity reactions or skin irritation with ketoconazole.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperKetoconazole shampoo for seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp: a narrative review(opens in a new tab)· Adverse Effects of Topical Ketoconazole section· Checked October 12, 2026

• The authors of a comparative study suggested that a microbial-driven inflammatory reaction next to the hair follicles might play a part in androgenic alopecia, and studied ketoconazole because it is active against the scalp microflora and shows some anti-inflammatory activity of its own.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperKetoconazole shampoo: effect of long-term use in androgenic alopecia(opens in a new tab)· Abstract (Background, Objective)· Checked October 12, 2026

1. Peer-reviewed paper
   Female pattern hair loss: a clinical, pathophysiologic, and therapeutic review(opens in a new tab)

   International Journal of Women's Dermatology · DOI 10.1016/j.ijwd.2018.05.001; PMID 30627618; PMCID PMC6322157 · Published June 19, 2018

   Read on October 12, 2026

   Narrative review; full text read via Europe PMC.

2. Peer-reviewed paper
   Ketoconazole shampoo for seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp: a narrative review(opens in a new tab)

   Cureus · DOI 10.7759/cureus.67532; PMID 39310465; PMCID PMC11416180 · Published August 22, 2024

   Read on October 12, 2026

   Narrative review of ketoconazole shampoo for seborrheic dermatitis (not hair loss); full text read via Europe PMC.

3. Peer-reviewed paper
   Ketoconazole shampoo: effect of long-term use in androgenic alopecia(opens in a new tab)

   Dermatology · DOI 10.1159/000017954; PMID 9669136

   Read on October 12, 2026

   Comparative clinical study; abstract read via Europe PMC.

4. Peer-reviewed paper
   Topical ketoconazole for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review(opens in a new tab)

   Dermatologic Therapy · DOI 10.1111/dth.13202; PMID 31858672 · Published January 2, 2020

   Read on October 12, 2026

   Systematic review; abstract read via Europe PMC.

KX-826 is an experimental topical androgen receptor antagonist from Kintor Pharmaceutical. Several studies have been announced by the developer, with different designs and results, so this entry lists each one separately with its limits.

• United States

  Your country

  U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Investigational

  Being studied in clinical trials. Not approved.

  A Phase 2 study conducted in the United States is recorded as completed in the trial registry.

  Source

  Trial registryClinicalTrials.gov record NCT05218642: KX-826 in male subjects with androgenetic alopecia(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

• Australia

  Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Not yet verified

  We have not yet verified this. Do not rely on it.

  We have not checked whether any trial or application exists in Australia.

  No source: this has not been checked.

• For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Sponsor-announced trial results

  What this means: Results from larger, late-stage human trials have been announced by the developer but are not yet published in a peer-reviewed journal. This describes the kind of evidence, not how well the treatment works or whether it suits anyone. About this scale

  Several human studies have been announced by the developer with differing designs and results; peer-reviewed publication of them was not found in the sources checked.

  Source

  Company announcementNot peer-reviewedKintor Pharmaceutical announcement, 18 March 2026: Phase III stage of the KX-826 pivotal study(opens in a new tab)

• Androgen receptor antagonism. Blocks the receptor that androgen hormones such as DHT act on.

• The developer describes KX-826 as a topical drug that directly blocks androgen-mediated signalling by competing with androgen to bind to androgen receptors in the targeted tissues.

  Source

  Company announcementNot peer-reviewedKintor Pharmaceutical announcement, 18 March 2026: Phase III stage of the KX-826 pivotal study(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

• The trial registry record for a China Phase 2/3 adaptive-design study of KX-826 at 0.5% and 1.0% twice daily (NCT06622824) lists it as not yet recruiting and was last updated on 2024-10-21.

  Source

  Trial registryClinicalTrials.gov record NCT06622824: KX-826 solution in Chinese male patients with androgenetic alopecia(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

Registered trials

• To Evaluate Efficacy, Safety, and Tolerability of KX-826 in Male Subjects With Androgenetic Alopecia

  ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05218642(opens in a new tab) · Phase 2 · Sponsor: Suzhou Kintor Pharmaceutical Inc

  Registry status: Completed (checked September 19, 2026)

• To Evaluate Efficacy and Safety of Topical KX-826 Solution in Chinese Male Patients With Androgenetic Alopecia

  ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06622824(opens in a new tab) · Phase 2/Phase 3 · Sponsor: Suzhou Kintor Pharmaceutical Inc

  Registry status: Not yet recruiting (record last updated 2024-10-21) (checked September 19, 2026)

Reported results

• Mixed resultsSponsor-reported

  Sponsor reported a hair-count increase from baseline in a US Phase II study

  Registered study: NCT05218642 (opens in a new tab) · Phase 2

  The announcement describes a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in 123 men (Hamilton-Norwood stage III vertex, IV or V), with 93 in KX-826 groups (0.25% once daily, 0.5% once daily, 0.5% twice daily) and 30 on placebo, treated for 24 weeks. Target-area non-vellus hair count in the 0.5% twice-daily group increased by about 10 hairs per cm² from baseline (P=0.0088). The sponsor states there was an improvement versus placebo with a dose-response relationship, and describes most adverse events as mild local scalp sensitivity similar to placebo.

  Limitations

  Sponsor announcement, not peer-reviewed. Statistical significance is stated versus baseline; the announcement does not give a significance test versus placebo. The study was small.

  Source

  Company announcementNot peer-reviewedKintor Pharmaceutical announcement, 11 May 2023: completion of the US Phase II study of KX-826(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

• Mixed resultsSponsor-reported

  Sponsor reported a significant hair-count increase from baseline but no statistically significant difference from placebo in a Phase III study in China

  The announcement describes a double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase III study in China of KX-826 0.5% applied twice daily in men with androgenetic alopecia. The primary endpoint was the average change in non-vellus target-area hair count at 24 weeks. After 24 weeks, hair count in the treatment group was higher than at baseline with statistical significance (P<0.0001). Compared with placebo, the announcement states there was improvement at all visit points with no statistical significance, but a trend in efficacy was observed. It describes overall safety as good and reports no serious adverse events.

  Limitations

  Sponsor announcement, not peer-reviewed. By the sponsor's own wording, the comparison with placebo did not reach statistical significance. The number of participants was not stated in the parts of the announcement that were read.

  Source

  Company announcementNot peer-reviewedKintor Pharmaceutical announcement, November 2023: results of a Phase III study of KX-826 in China(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

• Primary endpoint reported as metSponsor-reported

  Sponsor reported that an open-label 52-week study met its primary safety endpoint

  The announcement describes an open-label Phase III study at 16 clinical research centres in China in which KX-826 tincture 0.5% was applied twice daily for 52 weeks. The primary endpoint was the incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events. The sponsor reports a low incidence of adverse events overall, no deaths, and no drug-related sexual dysfunction adverse reactions. For hair count it reports increases that were statistically significant (P<0.0001), with 46% of participants achieving an increase of at least 10 hairs per cm² in the target area and 20% achieving at least 20 hairs per cm².

  Limitations

  Sponsor announcement, not peer-reviewed. The study had no comparison group, so the hair-count changes are changes from each participant's own baseline and cannot be compared with placebo.

  Source

  Company announcementNot peer-reviewedKintor Pharmaceutical announcement, 20 March 2025: long-term safety Phase III study of KX-826(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

• Primary endpoint reported as metSponsor-reported

  Sponsor reported that the Phase III stage of a vehicle-controlled Phase II/III study met its primary endpoint

  The announcement describes a multi-centre, randomised, double-blind, vehicle-controlled Phase II/III study with an adaptive design. The Phase III stage involved 26 clinical research centres in China, 666 participants and a 24-week treatment period followed by a 14-day safety observation period. The primary endpoint was the improvement in target-area non-vellus hair count compared with placebo. Hair count increased by 15.33 hairs per cm² from baseline with KX-826 1.0% twice daily, 14.46 with 0.5% twice daily and 4.68 with placebo. The differences from placebo were 10.65 hairs per cm² (P<0.0001) for 1.0% and 9.78 hairs per cm² (P<0.0001) for 0.5%. The sponsor reports good safety and tolerability, with no drug-related serious adverse events and no significant differences in the incidence of adverse events between groups.

  Limitations

  Sponsor announcement, not peer-reviewed. The announcement does not cite a trial registry number. A registry entry for a China Phase 2/3 study of the same doses (NCT06622824) was last updated in October 2024 and lists it as not yet recruiting. The gain over placebo is about 10 hairs per cm² after 24 weeks of treatment.

  Source

  Company announcementNot peer-reviewedKintor Pharmaceutical announcement, 18 March 2026: Phase III stage of the KX-826 pivotal study(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

1. Trial registry
   ClinicalTrials.gov record NCT05218642: KX-826 in male subjects with androgenetic alopecia(opens in a new tab)

   ClinicalTrials.gov (U.S. National Library of Medicine) · NCT05218642

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Registry wording as at the access date.

2. Trial registry
   ClinicalTrials.gov record NCT06622824: KX-826 solution in Chinese male patients with androgenetic alopecia(opens in a new tab)

   ClinicalTrials.gov (U.S. National Library of Medicine) · NCT06622824

   Read on September 19, 2026

   The record lists the study as not yet recruiting and was last updated on 2024-10-21, so it does not reflect the sponsor's later announcements.

3. Company announcementNot peer-reviewed
   Kintor Pharmaceutical announcement, 11 May 2023: completion of the US Phase II study of KX-826(opens in a new tab)

   Kintor Pharmaceutical (via PR Newswire) · Published May 11, 2023

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Sponsor announcement, not peer-reviewed.

4. Company announcementNot peer-reviewed
   Kintor Pharmaceutical announcement, 18 March 2026: Phase III stage of the KX-826 pivotal study(opens in a new tab)

   Kintor Pharmaceutical · Published March 18, 2026

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Sponsor announcement, not peer-reviewed.

5. Company announcementNot peer-reviewed
   Kintor Pharmaceutical announcement, 20 March 2025: long-term safety Phase III study of KX-826(opens in a new tab)

   Kintor Pharmaceutical · Published March 20, 2025

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Sponsor announcement, not peer-reviewed.

6. Company announcementNot peer-reviewed
   Kintor Pharmaceutical announcement, November 2023: results of a Phase III study of KX-826 in China(opens in a new tab)

   Kintor Pharmaceutical (copy on MarketScreener) · Published November 26, 2023

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Sponsor announcement, not peer-reviewed. Date is as shown on the MarketScreener copy; the exchange filing may carry a date a day later.

Low-level laser therapy devices come in several forms. Different devices use different light types, strengths and schedules, so results for one device may not apply to another. See the sourced sections below for regulatory details and study results.

• United States

  Your country

  U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Device authorised

  Authorised or cleared as a medical device.

  A journal abstract names one device, the HairMax LaserComb, as FDA-cleared. Clearance applies to specific devices, so check the device you are considering. The FDA clearance record itself was not checked.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperThe effectiveness of treatments for androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review and meta-analysis(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

• Australia

  Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Not yet verified

  We have not yet verified this. Do not rely on it.

  We have not checked how laser devices for hair loss are regulated in Australia.

  No source: this has not been checked.

• For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Multiple randomised trials

  What this means: Several randomised controlled trials and/or systematic reviews have been published. This describes the kind of evidence, not how well the treatment works or whether it suits anyone. About this scale

  Randomised sham-controlled trials of a laser comb and a meta-analysis of randomised trials have been published; the meta-analysis notes high heterogeneity.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperThe effectiveness of treatments for androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review and meta-analysis(opens in a new tab)

• Low-level laser or light energy. Delivers low-level laser or light energy to the scalp. Proposed effects on hair follicles are still being studied.

• In sham device-controlled, double-blind trials of the HairMax LaserComb in which 128 men and 141 women were randomised, treatment three times a week for 26 weeks was followed by a statistically significant difference in the increase in terminal hair density between laser comb and sham-treated participants. No serious adverse events were reported.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperEfficacy and safety of a low-level laser device in the treatment of male and female pattern hair loss: a multicenter, randomized, sham device-controlled, double-blind study(opens in a new tab)· Abstract· Checked September 19, 2026

• A meta-analysis of randomised trials included low-level laser light therapy in men and reported that it performed better than placebo for promoting hair growth.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperThe effectiveness of treatments for androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review and meta-analysis(opens in a new tab)· Abstract· Checked September 19, 2026

• The meta-analysis lists high heterogeneity between most of the included studies as a limitation.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperThe effectiveness of treatments for androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review and meta-analysis(opens in a new tab)· Abstract· Checked September 19, 2026

• The laser comb trials tested one commercial device in three models. Their authors state that additional studies should determine the long-term effects on hair growth and maintenance and should optimise the laser modality.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperEfficacy and safety of a low-level laser device in the treatment of male and female pattern hair loss: a multicenter, randomized, sham device-controlled, double-blind study(opens in a new tab)· Abstract· Checked September 19, 2026

1. Peer-reviewed paper
   Efficacy and safety of a low-level laser device in the treatment of male and female pattern hair loss: a multicenter, randomized, sham device-controlled, double-blind study(opens in a new tab)

   American Journal of Clinical Dermatology · DOI 10.1007/s40257-013-0060-6; PMID 24474647 · Published April 1, 2014

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Abstract read via Europe PMC. Tested one commercial laser comb.

2. Peer-reviewed paper
   The effectiveness of treatments for androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review and meta-analysis(opens in a new tab)

   Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology · DOI 10.1016/j.jaad.2017.02.054; PMID 28396101 · Published April 7, 2017

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Abstract read via Europe PMC.

Microneedling uses a roller, pen or similar device to make small wounds in the scalp. In hair-loss studies it is usually combined with a treatment applied to the scalp, such as minoxidil. Devices, needle depths and session schedules differ between clinics and studies. See the sourced sections below for what is known about how it is regulated, the study results and the risks.

• United States

  Your country

  U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Not yet verified

  We have not yet verified this. Do not rely on it.

  We have not yet checked how microneedling devices or their use for hair loss are regulated in the United States.

  No source: this has not been checked.

• Australia

  Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Not yet verified

  We have not yet verified this. Do not rely on it.

  We have not yet checked how microneedling devices or their use for hair loss are regulated in Australia.

  No source: this has not been checked.

• For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Multiple randomised trials

  What this means: Several randomised controlled trials and/or systematic reviews have been published. This describes the kind of evidence, not how well the treatment works or whether it suits anyone. About this scale

  Systematic reviews and meta-analyses of randomised trials have been published. Most trials tested microneedling together with topical minoxidil rather than on its own, and results vary between studies.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperEvaluating the efficacy and safety of combined microneedling therapy versus topical minoxidil in androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review and meta-analysis(opens in a new tab)

• Controlled micro-injury (wound healing). Fine needles make many tiny wounds in the skin. The wound-healing response, including the release of growth factors, is proposed to act on hair follicles.

• The same review states that the wounds lead to the release of platelet-derived growth factor and VEGF, which promote angiogenesis and wound healing, and attributes the effect of microneedling as an add-on hair-loss treatment to dermal papilla stem cell proliferation.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperAndrogenetic alopecia: therapy update(opens in a new tab)· Microneedling section· Checked October 12, 2026

• A systematic review and meta-analysis that identified 12 randomised controlled trials involving 631 people with androgenetic alopecia reported that microneedling combined with minoxidil significantly improved hair count and hair diameter compared with minoxidil alone. Its subgroup analyses found no significant effect of needle depth, treatment duration or device type on hair count.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperEvaluating the efficacy and safety of combined microneedling therapy versus topical minoxidil in androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review and meta-analysis(opens in a new tab)· Abstract· Checked October 12, 2026

• In a randomised, evaluator-blinded pilot study that recruited 100 cases of mild to moderate androgenetic alopecia in men, the mean change in hair count at week 12 was 91.4 in the group given weekly microneedling with 5% minoxidil lotion, compared with 22.2 in the group given 5% minoxidil lotion alone.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperA randomized evaluator blinded study of effect of microneedling in androgenetic alopecia: a pilot study(opens in a new tab)· Abstract· Checked October 12, 2026

• The same meta-analysis reported substantial heterogeneity between trials for hair count, rated all included studies as having some concern for risk of bias, mainly in the randomisation process, and notes that most of the trials were conducted in Asia, the Middle East and North Africa.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperEvaluating the efficacy and safety of combined microneedling therapy versus topical minoxidil in androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review and meta-analysis(opens in a new tab)· Abstract; Risk of bias and Limitations sections· Checked October 12, 2026

• Another meta-analysis of randomised trials of microneedling with topical minoxidil, which pooled eight studies, reported a statistically significant increase in total hair count but found that the evidence did not support a statistically significant increase in hair diameter. Its authors state that variations in rating scales, microneedling methods and treatment areas may have resulted in confounding, and that larger, rigorous randomised trials are needed.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperEfficacy and safety of combinational therapy using topical minoxidil and microneedling for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review and meta-analysis(opens in a new tab)· Abstract· Checked October 12, 2026

• In the meta-analysis of 12 trials, adverse events were more frequent with microneedling plus minoxidil (74 events) than with minoxidil alone (59 events), and were generally considered mild or self-limiting. Scalp itching was the most frequently reported adverse event in both groups.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperEvaluating the efficacy and safety of combined microneedling therapy versus topical minoxidil in androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review and meta-analysis(opens in a new tab)· Abstract; Safety (adverse events) section· Checked October 12, 2026

• A narrative review states that pain, bruising and folliculitis have been seen with microneedling, as with other procedures involving injections.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperAndrogenetic alopecia: therapy update(opens in a new tab)· Microneedling section· Checked October 12, 2026

• The meta-analysis of microneedling with topical minoxidil reported that no scarring and no serious adverse events were reported in any of its included studies.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperEfficacy and safety of combinational therapy using topical minoxidil and microneedling for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review and meta-analysis(opens in a new tab)· Abstract· Checked October 12, 2026

• A review describes microneedling as a minimally invasive procedure in which small wounds are made through the skin with small needles, and states that the wounds form channels that improve absorption of topical treatments such as minoxidil or finasteride. It notes that microneedling is often used as an add-on treatment, so how often it is done varies by individual.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperAndrogenetic alopecia: therapy update(opens in a new tab)· Microneedling section· Checked October 12, 2026

1. Peer-reviewed paper
   A randomized evaluator blinded study of effect of microneedling in androgenetic alopecia: a pilot study(opens in a new tab)

   International Journal of Trichology · DOI 10.4103/0974-7753.114700; PMID 23960389; PMCID PMC3746236

   Read on October 12, 2026

   Abstract read via Europe PMC. Pilot study comparing microneedling plus minoxidil with minoxidil alone.

2. Peer-reviewed paper
   Androgenetic alopecia: therapy update(opens in a new tab)

   Drugs · DOI 10.1007/s40265-023-01880-x; PMID 37166619 · Published May 11, 2023

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Narrative review; full text read.

3. Peer-reviewed paper
   Efficacy and safety of combinational therapy using topical minoxidil and microneedling for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review and meta-analysis(opens in a new tab)

   Archives of Dermatological Research · DOI 10.1007/s00403-023-02688-1; PMID 37665358 · Published September 4, 2023

   Read on October 12, 2026

   Abstract read via Europe PMC.

4. Peer-reviewed paper
   Evaluating the efficacy and safety of combined microneedling therapy versus topical minoxidil in androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review and meta-analysis(opens in a new tab)

   Archives of Dermatological Research · DOI 10.1007/s00403-025-04032-1; PMID 40056230; PMCID PMC11890238 · Published March 8, 2025

   Read on October 12, 2026

   Abstract and full text read via Europe PMC.

Minoxidil tablets were first developed to treat high blood pressure. Some clinicians prescribe small doses for pattern hair loss. This page covers the tablet form only; the scalp product has its own page. See the sourced sections below for its regulatory position, the evidence and the risks.

• United States

  Your country

  U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Used off-label

  Approved for something else, and not approved for this condition; a clinician may use it outside its approval.

  The source states that oral minoxidil was originally approved for refractory hypertension and that its use for hair loss is off-label.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperExpanding the therapeutic landscape of minoxidil for androgenetic alopecia: topical, oral and sublingual formulations(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

• Australia

  Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Used off-labelPrescription only

  Approved for something else, and not approved for this condition; a clinician may use it outside its approval.

  Brand names: Loniten

  The Australian register entry for Loniten 10 mg tablets (ARTG 12309) lists severe refractory hypertension as its indication; hair loss is not listed. The register classes it as prescription only (Schedule 4). We read this one entry only and did not check other minoxidil tablet products.

  Source

  Regulator recordARTG entry 12309: LONITEN minoxidil 10mg tablet bottle(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 21, 2026

• For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Early human studies

  What this means: Only small, early-phase or uncontrolled human studies have been reported. This describes the kind of evidence, not how well the treatment works or whether it suits anyone. About this scale

  A recent review describes the evidence base for oral minoxidil as still developing and calls for larger, longer studies.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperExpanding the therapeutic landscape of minoxidil for androgenetic alopecia: topical, oral and sublingual formulations(opens in a new tab)

• Minoxidil (proposed mechanisms). Minoxidil was first developed as a blood-pressure medicine. Several mechanisms have been proposed for how it affects hair follicles.

• The review describes low-dose oral minoxidil (0.25 to 5 mg) as a practical option for patients who do not respond to topical therapy.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperExpanding the therapeutic landscape of minoxidil for androgenetic alopecia: topical, oral and sublingual formulations(opens in a new tab)· Abstract· Checked September 19, 2026

• The review states that further large-scale, long-term studies are needed to define optimal dosing and to confirm safety.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperExpanding the therapeutic landscape of minoxidil for androgenetic alopecia: topical, oral and sublingual formulations(opens in a new tab)· Abstract· Checked September 19, 2026

• The review describes hypertrichosis (excess hair growth) as the most frequent adverse effect of oral minoxidil, and cardiovascular events as uncommon at low doses.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperExpanding the therapeutic landscape of minoxidil for androgenetic alopecia: topical, oral and sublingual formulations(opens in a new tab)· Abstract· Checked September 19, 2026

• A recent review states that, unlike topical minoxidil, the oral and sublingual formulations are not FDA-approved for hair loss and are prescribed off-label. It notes that oral minoxidil was originally approved for refractory hypertension and has gained increasing attention as an off-label option.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperExpanding the therapeutic landscape of minoxidil for androgenetic alopecia: topical, oral and sublingual formulations(opens in a new tab)· Oral minoxidil section· Checked September 19, 2026

1. Regulator record
   ARTG entry 12309: LONITEN minoxidil 10mg tablet bottle(opens in a new tab)

   Therapeutic Goods Administration · ARTG 12309

   Read on September 21, 2026

   Register entry: ARTG date 2 August 1991, sponsor Pfizer Australia Pty Ltd, status active. The public summary linked from the page (effective date 27 November 2025) lists one specific indication, adjunctive therapy in adults with severe refractory hypertension that has failed to respond to extensive multiple therapy, and Poison Schedule S4 (prescription only medicine). Hair loss is not listed. Only this one entry was read; other registered minoxidil tablet products were not checked.

2. Peer-reviewed paper
   Expanding the therapeutic landscape of minoxidil for androgenetic alopecia: topical, oral and sublingual formulations(opens in a new tab)

   Frontiers in Pharmacology · DOI 10.3389/fphar.2025.1718208; PMID 41695992 · Published January 21, 2026

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Narrative review; abstract and full text read.

Minoxidil was first developed as a blood-pressure medicine. Applied to the scalp, it is used for pattern hair loss. This page covers the scalp product only; minoxidil tablets have their own page. See the sourced sections below for how it is regulated, what the studies show and which warnings apply.

• United States

  Your country

  U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  ApprovedOver the counter

  Approved by the regulator for this condition.

  Brand names: Rogaine

  The label checked is a non-prescription 'Drug Facts' label for men's use on vertex hair loss. Women's Rogaine products carry separate labels.

  Source

  Regulator recordMEN'S ROGAINE EXTRA STRENGTH UNSCENTED minoxidil solution: DailyMed label (Drug Facts)(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

• Australia

  Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Approved

  Approved by the regulator for this condition.

  Brand names: Regaine

  Registered on the ARTG (for example Men's Regaine Extra Strength, minoxidil 5%). The indication wording comes from a healthdirect page. The poisons schedule was not verified.

  Source

  Regulator recordARTG entry 79914: MEN'S REGAINE EXTRA STRENGTH minoxidil 5% topical application bottle(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

• For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Multiple randomised trials

  What this means: Several randomised controlled trials and/or systematic reviews have been published. This describes the kind of evidence, not how well the treatment works or whether it suits anyone. About this scale

  A meta-analysis of randomised trials has been published, covering topical minoxidil in men and in women.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperThe effectiveness of treatments for androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review and meta-analysis(opens in a new tab)

• Minoxidil (proposed mechanisms). Minoxidil was first developed as a blood-pressure medicine. Several mechanisms have been proposed for how it affects hair follicles.

• A recent review notes that minoxidil was initially developed as an oral antihypertensive, and that topical minoxidil is proposed to promote hair growth through several mechanisms.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperExpanding the therapeutic landscape of minoxidil for androgenetic alopecia: topical, oral and sublingual formulations(opens in a new tab)· Abstract· Checked September 19, 2026

• A meta-analysis of randomised trials reported that 5% minoxidil in men, 2% minoxidil in men and 2% minoxidil in women each performed better than placebo for promoting hair growth.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperThe effectiveness of treatments for androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review and meta-analysis(opens in a new tab)· Abstract· Checked September 19, 2026

• The US label for men's 5% minoxidil solution states that in clinical studies with mostly white men aged 18 to 49 with moderate degrees of hair loss, the 5% solution provided more hair regrowth than 2% solution.

  Source

  Regulator recordMEN'S ROGAINE EXTRA STRENGTH UNSCENTED minoxidil solution: DailyMed label (Drug Facts)(opens in a new tab)· Drug Facts, Other information· Checked September 19, 2026

• The same meta-analysis lists high heterogeneity between most of the included studies as a limitation.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperThe effectiveness of treatments for androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review and meta-analysis(opens in a new tab)· Abstract· Checked September 19, 2026

• The US label states the product is for hair loss on the top of the scalp (vertex only), and that 5% minoxidil solution is not intended for frontal baldness or a receding hairline.

  Source

  Regulator recordMEN'S ROGAINE EXTRA STRENGTH UNSCENTED minoxidil solution: DailyMed label (Drug Facts)(opens in a new tab)· Drug Facts, Use and Warnings· Checked September 19, 2026

• The US label states that results may occur at 2 months with twice-daily use, that some men may need to use it for at least 4 months before seeing results, that the amount of regrowth is different for each person, and that 'this product will not work for all men'.

  Source

  Regulator recordMEN'S ROGAINE EXTRA STRENGTH UNSCENTED minoxidil solution: DailyMed label (Drug Facts)(opens in a new tab)· Drug Facts, When using this product· Checked September 19, 2026

• The US label states that continued use is necessary to increase and keep hair regrowth, or hair loss will begin again, and that regrowth has not been shown to last longer than 48 weeks in large clinical trials of continuous treatment with the 5% solution in men.

  Source

  Regulator recordMEN'S ROGAINE EXTRA STRENGTH UNSCENTED minoxidil solution: DailyMed label (Drug Facts)(opens in a new tab)· Drug Facts, Directions and Other information· Checked September 19, 2026

• The US label advises asking a doctor before use with heart disease, and says to stop use and ask a doctor if chest pain, rapid heartbeat, faintness or dizziness occurs, if there is sudden unexplained weight gain, if hands or feet swell, if scalp irritation or redness occurs, or if unwanted facial hair growth occurs. It says the product may be harmful if used when pregnant or breast-feeding.

  Source

  Regulator recordMEN'S ROGAINE EXTRA STRENGTH UNSCENTED minoxidil solution: DailyMed label (Drug Facts)(opens in a new tab)· Drug Facts, Warnings· Checked September 19, 2026

• healthdirect reports that Regaine topical solution (2% and 5%) is indicated for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia (common baldness) in healthy adult males and females.

  Source

  Other sourceRegaine Women's Extra Strength medicine information(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

1. Regulator record
   ARTG entry 79914: MEN'S REGAINE EXTRA STRENGTH minoxidil 5% topical application bottle(opens in a new tab)

   Therapeutic Goods Administration · ARTG 79914

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Register entry: ARTG date 30 August 2001, sponsor Johnson & Johnson Pacific Pty Ltd, licence status active. The page does not state the indication or schedule.

2. Regulator record
   MEN'S ROGAINE EXTRA STRENGTH UNSCENTED minoxidil solution: DailyMed label (Drug Facts)(opens in a new tab)

   U.S. National Library of Medicine (DailyMed)

   Read on September 19, 2026

   A non-prescription 'Drug Facts' label.

3. Peer-reviewed paper
   Expanding the therapeutic landscape of minoxidil for androgenetic alopecia: topical, oral and sublingual formulations(opens in a new tab)

   Frontiers in Pharmacology · DOI 10.3389/fphar.2025.1718208; PMID 41695992 · Published January 21, 2026

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Narrative review; abstract and full text read.

4. Peer-reviewed paper
   The effectiveness of treatments for androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review and meta-analysis(opens in a new tab)

   Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology · DOI 10.1016/j.jaad.2017.02.054; PMID 28396101 · Published April 7, 2017

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Abstract read via Europe PMC.

5. Other source
   Regaine Women's Extra Strength medicine information(opens in a new tab)

   healthdirect Australia (Australian Government-funded health information service)

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Not a regulator. Reports the indication text for Regaine topical solution. It did not state a poisons schedule.

Nutritional supplements for hair loss are taken by mouth as tablets, capsules or liquids. They range from single vitamins or minerals, such as biotin, zinc or vitamin D, to plant extracts and formulas that combine many ingredients, and products differ widely in what they contain. They are not a single medicine. See the sourced sections below for what reviews report about the study results and the risks, including the risks of taking too much of some nutrients.

• United States

  Your country

  U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Not yet verified

  We have not yet verified this. Do not rely on it.

  We have not yet checked how oral supplements sold for hair loss are regulated in the United States.

  No source: this has not been checked.

• Australia

  Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Not yet verified

  We have not yet verified this. Do not rely on it.

  We have not yet checked how oral supplements sold for hair loss are regulated in Australia.

  No source: this has not been checked.

• For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Multiple randomised trials

  What this means: Several randomised controlled trials and/or systematic reviews have been published. This describes the kind of evidence, not how well the treatment works or whether it suits anyone. About this scale

  A systematic review covering randomised trials of many different supplements has been published; the products studied, their ingredients and the quality of the studies vary.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperEvaluation of the Safety and Effectiveness of Nutritional Supplements for Treating Hair Loss: A Systematic Review(opens in a new tab)

• A systematic review of dietary and nutritional interventions for hair loss in people without a known baseline nutritional deficiency included 30 articles: 17 randomised clinical trials, 11 non-randomised clinical studies and 2 case series. It reported that the studies with the highest-quality evidence showed potential benefit for several multi-ingredient commercial supplements, and for capsaicin and isoflavone, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids with antioxidants, an apple nutraceutical, total glucosides of paeony and compound glycyrrhizin tablets, zinc, tocotrienol and pumpkin seed oil.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperEvaluation of the Safety and Effectiveness of Nutritional Supplements for Treating Hair Loss: A Systematic Review(opens in a new tab)· Abstract (Findings)· Checked October 12, 2026

• The same systematic review found that kimchi and cheonggukjang, vitamin D3 and one commercial supplement had low-quality evidence for improvement, and that no diet-based interventional studies met its inclusion criteria. The authors state that the findings should be interpreted in the context of each study's design, and that future research should focus on larger randomised trials with active comparators.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperEvaluation of the Safety and Effectiveness of Nutritional Supplements for Treating Hair Loss: A Systematic Review(opens in a new tab)· Abstract (Findings; Conclusions and Relevance)· Checked October 12, 2026

• A review of vitamins and minerals states that biotin deficiency causes hair loss, but that there are no evidence-based data that supplementing biotin promotes hair growth. Its plain language summary states that neither vitamin E nor biotin supplementation is supported by the literature for treating androgenetic alopecia or telogen effluvium, and that there is insufficient data to recommend zinc, riboflavin, folic acid or vitamin B12 supplementation in cases of deficiency.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperThe Role of Vitamins and Minerals in Hair Loss: A Review(opens in a new tab)· Plain language summary; Discussion· Checked October 12, 2026

• The same review concludes that large double-blind placebo-controlled trials are required to determine the effect of micronutrient supplementation on hair growth in patients with both micronutrient deficiency and non-scarring alopecia.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperThe Role of Vitamins and Minerals in Hair Loss: A Review(opens in a new tab)· Conclusion· Checked October 12, 2026

• The systematic review of nutritional interventions reported that adverse effects were rare and mild for all the therapies it evaluated.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperEvaluation of the Safety and Effectiveness of Nutritional Supplements for Treating Hair Loss: A Systematic Review(opens in a new tab)· Abstract (Findings)· Checked October 12, 2026

• A review of vitamins and minerals states that high biotin intake can cause falsely high or falsely low laboratory test results, including in tests for thyroid and sex hormones, and cites the US Food and Drug Administration as reporting that biotin interference from supplemental biotin caused a falsely low troponin test result that led to a missed diagnosis of a heart attack and a patient's death.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperThe Role of Vitamins and Minerals in Hair Loss: A Review(opens in a new tab)· Biotin section· Checked October 12, 2026

• The same review states that consuming too much or over-supplementing vitamin A can cause hair loss, and that selenium ingestion exceeding 400 μg daily may cause toxicity, with symptoms that include hair loss. It describes an outbreak of selenium toxicity from a liquid dietary supplement that contained 200-fold the labelled concentration of selenium, which resulted in severe hair loss in most patients.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperThe Role of Vitamins and Minerals in Hair Loss: A Review(opens in a new tab)· Vitamin A and Selenium sections· Checked October 12, 2026

• A review of vitamins and minerals in hair loss states that micronutrients play an important, but not entirely clear, role in normal hair follicle development and immune cell function, and that deficiency of such micronutrients may represent a modifiable risk factor associated with the development, prevention and treatment of alopecia.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperThe Role of Vitamins and Minerals in Hair Loss: A Review(opens in a new tab)· Abstract· Checked October 12, 2026

1. Peer-reviewed paper
   Evaluation of the Safety and Effectiveness of Nutritional Supplements for Treating Hair Loss: A Systematic Review(opens in a new tab)

   JAMA Dermatology · DOI 10.1001/jamadermatol.2022.4867; PMID 36449274 · Published January 1, 2023

   Read on October 12, 2026

   Systematic review of dietary and nutritional interventions for hair loss in people without a known baseline nutritional deficiency; abstract read (PubMed), full text not in PMC. Issue JAMA Dermatol 2023;159(1):79-86; publishedOn is the issue date.

2. Peer-reviewed paper
   The Role of Vitamins and Minerals in Hair Loss: A Review(opens in a new tab)

   Dermatology and Therapy · DOI 10.1007/s13555-018-0278-6; PMID 30547302; PMCID PMC6380979 · Published December 13, 2018

   Read on October 12, 2026

   Narrative review of vitamins and minerals in non-scarring alopecia; full text read (PMC). Epub 2018-12-13; issue Dermatol Ther (Heidelb) 2019;9(1):51-70. One author discloses consulting and investigator relationships with several companies.

Peptides are short chains of amino acids. For pattern hair loss they are mostly found in lotions, serums and shampoos applied to the scalp, including copper-bound peptides such as GHK-Cu and laboratory-made peptides designed to resemble the body's own signalling molecules. Products usually combine a peptide with other ingredients and differ in what they contain. Peptides sold for injection are not covered here. See the sourced sections below for what is known about the study results and the risks.

• United States

  Your country

  U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Not yet verified

  We have not yet verified this. Do not rely on it.

  We have not yet checked how peptide products used on the scalp are regulated in the United States.

  No source: this has not been checked.

• Australia

  Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Not yet verified

  We have not yet verified this. Do not rely on it.

  We have not yet checked how peptide products used on the scalp are regulated in Australia.

  No source: this has not been checked.

• For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Early human studies

  What this means: Only small, early-phase or uncontrolled human studies have been reported. This describes the kind of evidence, not how well the treatment works or whether it suits anyone. About this scale

  Human studies are small, and most tested peptides combined with other ingredients, so the contribution of the peptide itself is unclear.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperTopical Alternatives for Hair Loss: Beyond the Conventional(opens in a new tab)

• Peptide signalling to the follicle and its surrounding tissue (proposed). Short chains of amino acids (peptides) applied to the scalp are proposed to act on hair follicle cells and on the proteins around the follicle that help anchor the hair. These proposed actions come mainly from laboratory studies.

• The same review describes biotinyl-GHK as helping to anchor the hair through adhesion proteins such as laminin 5 and collagen IV, and an ingredient containing acetyl tetrapeptide-3 as increasing extracellular matrix proteins such as collagen type III and anchoring fibres such as laminin and collagen VII in the dermal papilla.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperTopical Alternatives for Hair Loss: Beyond the Conventional(opens in a new tab)· Procapil and Capixyl sections· Checked October 12, 2026

• A laboratory study reported that a copper tripeptide complex (AHK-Cu) stimulated the elongation of human hair follicles kept alive outside the body and the proliferation of cultured dermal papilla cells. The authors proposed that this may occur through stimulating the proliferation of these cells and preventing their programmed death. This was a laboratory study, not a study in people.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperThe effect of tripeptide-copper complex on human hair growth in vitro(opens in a new tab)· Abstract· Checked October 12, 2026

• A placebo-controlled study treated 45 patients with male pattern hair loss once a day for 6 months with a complex of 5-aminolevulinic acid and the GHK peptide at 100 mg/ml or 50 mg/ml, or with placebo. It reported increases in hair count of 52.6 (p<0.05) and 71.5 (p<0.05) in the two treated groups and 9.6 in the placebo group, no statistically significant difference in hair length or hair thickness among the three groups at 6 months, and no adverse event in any group. The tested product combined the peptide with another active substance.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperEfficacy of a Complex of 5-Aminolevulinic Acid and Glycyl-Histidyl-Lysine Peptide on Hair Growth(opens in a new tab)· Abstract· Checked October 12, 2026

• The review cites a 24-week, triple-blinded randomised controlled study in 32 men and women with mild-to-moderate androgenetic alopecia, in which a herbal extract containing biochanin A, acetyl tetrapeptide-3 and ginseng extracts showed comparable efficacy to 3% minoxidil solution, with no local adverse reactions observed.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperTopical Alternatives for Hair Loss: Beyond the Conventional(opens in a new tab)· Capixyl, Evidence section· Checked October 12, 2026

• The review concludes that, because the formulations also contain other ingredients, it is challenging to discern how much the peptides contribute. It lists methodological flaws in the studies, including limited sample size, lack of appropriate comparison groups, qualitative rather than quantitative measures of hair regrowth and conflicts of interest from company sponsorship, notes a lack of head-to-head comparison with standard treatments, and states that more well-designed comparative studies are needed.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperTopical Alternatives for Hair Loss: Beyond the Conventional(opens in a new tab)· Abstract; Conclusion· Checked October 12, 2026

• A systematic evidence-mapping review of the copper peptide GHK-Cu (across all uses, not only hair) found that laboratory and animal data consistently support effects on tissue repair, but that the clinical evidence remains sparse; the human studies it identified were small, and the one hair study was of eyebrows in 18 healthy participants. It concludes that, until controlled clinical efficacy is demonstrated, GHK-Cu should be regarded as unproven rather than as a clinically validated regenerative drug.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperGHK-Cu as a Bioactive Metallopeptide and Drug-Delivery Cargo: Coordination Chemistry, Formulation Science, Therapeutic Evidence, and a Translational Roadmap(opens in a new tab)· Abstract; section 7.1 (Human Clinical Evidence)· Checked October 12, 2026

• The GHK-Cu review notes that copper is a recognised contact sensitiser in susceptible individuals, and that a penetration-enhancing vehicle or a breached skin barrier increases the relevant exposure.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperGHK-Cu as a Bioactive Metallopeptide and Drug-Delivery Cargo: Coordination Chemistry, Formulation Science, Therapeutic Evidence, and a Translational Roadmap(opens in a new tab)· Section 8.6 (Long-Term Toxicity, Immunogenicity, and Regulatory Safety Considerations)· Checked October 12, 2026

• The GHK-Cu review states that injectable copper-peptide preparations supplied outside an approved marketing authorisation sit outside any defined evidentiary or quality framework.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperGHK-Cu as a Bioactive Metallopeptide and Drug-Delivery Cargo: Coordination Chemistry, Formulation Science, Therapeutic Evidence, and a Translational Roadmap(opens in a new tab)· Section 7.6 (Injectable Aesthetic and Soft-Tissue Applications)· Checked October 12, 2026

• A review of topical cosmetic hair-growth products describes peptide ingredients including biotinyl-GHK (a biotin-linked form of the gly-his-lys peptide, described as a matrikine) and the biomimetic peptide acetyl tetrapeptide-3, and notes that almost all formulations containing these peptides also contain other vitamins, minerals or chemical additives.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperTopical Alternatives for Hair Loss: Beyond the Conventional(opens in a new tab)· Procapil and Capixyl sections; Conclusion· Checked October 12, 2026

1. Peer-reviewed paper
   Efficacy of a Complex of 5-Aminolevulinic Acid and Glycyl-Histidyl-Lysine Peptide on Hair Growth(opens in a new tab)

   Annals of Dermatology · DOI 10.5021/ad.2016.28.4.438; PMID 27489425; PMCID PMC4969472 · Published July 26, 2016

   Read on October 12, 2026

   Placebo-controlled study of a 5-ALA and GHK peptide complex in male pattern hair loss; abstract read. Epub 2016-07-26; issue Ann Dermatol 2016;28(4):438-443.

2. Peer-reviewed paper
   GHK-Cu as a Bioactive Metallopeptide and Drug-Delivery Cargo: Coordination Chemistry, Formulation Science, Therapeutic Evidence, and a Translational Roadmap(opens in a new tab)

   Pharmaceutics · DOI 10.3390/pharmaceutics18091077; PMID 42797253; PMCID PMC13610439 · Published August 27, 2026

   Read on October 12, 2026

   Systematic evidence-mapping review of GHK-Cu across uses (not specific to hair loss); full text read (PMC). Pharmaceutics 2026;18(9):1077.

3. Peer-reviewed paper
   The effect of tripeptide-copper complex on human hair growth in vitro(opens in a new tab)

   Archives of Pharmacal Research · DOI 10.1007/BF02978833; PMID 17703734

   Read on October 12, 2026

   Laboratory study (human hair follicles ex vivo and cultured dermal papilla cells); abstract read. Arch Pharm Res 2007;30(7):834-839. Issue dated July 2007 (no day given).

4. Peer-reviewed paper
   Topical Alternatives for Hair Loss: Beyond the Conventional(opens in a new tab)

   International Journal of Trichology · DOI 10.4103/ijt.ijt_8_23; PMID 40654553; PMCID PMC12251978 · Published June 23, 2025

   Read on October 12, 2026

   Narrative review of topical cosmetic hair-growth actives, including peptide-containing ingredients; full text read (PMC). Epub 2025-06-23; issue Int J Trichology 2025;17(1):13-19.

Blood is drawn, spun to concentrate the platelets, and the concentrate is injected into the scalp. PRP is a procedure rather than a single product, and clinics prepare and give it in different ways. See the sourced sections below for what is known about how it is regulated, the study results and the risks.

• United States

  Your country

  U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Not yet verified

  We have not yet verified this. Do not rely on it.

  We have not yet checked how PRP preparation or its use for hair loss is regulated in the United States.

  No source: this has not been checked.

• Australia

  Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Not yet verified

  We have not yet verified this. Do not rely on it.

  We have not yet checked how PRP preparation or its use for hair loss is regulated in Australia.

  No source: this has not been checked.

• For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Multiple randomised trials

  What this means: Several randomised controlled trials and/or systematic reviews have been published. This describes the kind of evidence, not how well the treatment works or whether it suits anyone. About this scale

  A systematic review of clinical trials has been published; preparation methods and results vary between studies.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperSystematic review of platelet-rich plasma use in androgenetic alopecia compared with minoxidil, finasteride, and adult stem cell-based therapy(opens in a new tab)

• Platelet-derived growth factors. A concentrate made from a person's own blood is injected into the scalp and is proposed to act through platelet-derived growth factors.

• A systematic review that analysed 12 clinical trials of PRP in androgenetic alopecia reported that 84% of the studies described a positive effect, and that 50% of the studies showed a statistically significant improvement using objective measures.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperSystematic review of platelet-rich plasma use in androgenetic alopecia compared with minoxidil, finasteride, and adult stem cell-based therapy(opens in a new tab)· Abstract· Checked September 19, 2026

• The same systematic review reported that 34% of the studies showed improvement in hair density and thickness but gave no p-values or statistical analysis, and that 17% of the studies reported that PRP was not effective.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperSystematic review of platelet-rich plasma use in androgenetic alopecia compared with minoxidil, finasteride, and adult stem cell-based therapy(opens in a new tab)· Abstract· Checked September 19, 2026

• A narrative review notes that a randomised controlled trial reported increased hair density in participants treated with PRP, but that the difference was not significant when compared with saline over 3 months.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperAndrogenetic alopecia: therapy update(opens in a new tab)· Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) section· Checked September 19, 2026

• The same review states that standardisation of PRP preparation is still debated, with different studies using different intervals between sessions, and that PRP is not curative and must be continued long term to sustain growth.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperAndrogenetic alopecia: therapy update(opens in a new tab)· Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) section· Checked September 19, 2026

• The review lists potential side effects as scalp pain, pinpoint bleeding, headache and a burning sensation that typically subside 10 to 15 minutes after the injections.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperAndrogenetic alopecia: therapy update(opens in a new tab)· Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) section· Checked September 19, 2026

• The review states that some patients with a history of bleeding disorders, active infection or autoimmune disease should refrain from using PRP because of increased risks.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperAndrogenetic alopecia: therapy update(opens in a new tab)· Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) section· Checked September 19, 2026

• A review describes PRP treatment as injecting the platelet-rich plasma component of a blood sample, after separation, into the patient's scalp, sometimes with an activator such as calcium, thrombin or collagen added.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperAndrogenetic alopecia: therapy update(opens in a new tab)· Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) section· Checked September 19, 2026

1. Peer-reviewed paper
   Androgenetic alopecia: therapy update(opens in a new tab)

   Drugs · DOI 10.1007/s40265-023-01880-x; PMID 37166619 · Published May 11, 2023

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Narrative review; full text read.

2. Peer-reviewed paper
   Systematic review of platelet-rich plasma use in androgenetic alopecia compared with minoxidil, finasteride, and adult stem cell-based therapy(opens in a new tab)

   International Journal of Molecular Sciences · DOI 10.3390/ijms21082702; PMID 32295047 · Published April 13, 2020

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Abstract read via Europe PMC.

PP405 is an experimental topical medicine from Pelage Pharmaceuticals. The developer describes it as designed to reactivate dormant hair follicle stem cells. Information here comes from the developer's announcements and a trial registry entry. See the sourced sections for what has been reported and its limits.

• United States

  Your country

  U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Not yet verified

  We have not yet verified this. Do not rely on it.

  We have not checked the regulatory position of PP405 in the United States.

  No source: this has not been checked.

• Australia

  Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Not yet verified

  We have not yet verified this. Do not rely on it.

  We have not checked whether any trial or application exists in Australia.

  No source: this has not been checked.

• For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Early human studies

  What this means: Only small, early-phase or uncontrolled human studies have been reported. This describes the kind of evidence, not how well the treatment works or whether it suits anyone. About this scale

  A randomised mid-stage study has been announced by the developer; the results are not yet published in a peer-reviewed journal.

  Source

  Company announcementNot peer-reviewedPelage Pharmaceuticals announcement, 17 June 2025: Phase 2a results for PP405(opens in a new tab)

• Follicle stem cell activation. Designed to reactivate resting hair follicle stem cells so that follicles re-enter the growth cycle.

• The developer describes PP405 as a topical therapy designed to reactivate dormant hair follicle stem cells to restore hair growth.

  Source

  Company announcementNot peer-reviewedPelage Pharmaceuticals announcement, 15 October 2025: Series B financing(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

• The trial registry lists the study interventions as PP405 0.05% topical gel and a matching vehicle gel.

  Source

  Trial registryClinicalTrials.gov record NCT06393452: PP405 in adults with androgenetic alopecia(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

• As at the date checked, no announcement on the developer's press release index states that a Phase 3 study of PP405 has started.

  Source

  Company announcementNot peer-reviewedPelage Pharmaceuticals press release index(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

Registered trials

• Safety, Pharmacokinetics and Efficacy of PP405 in Adults With AGA

  ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06393452(opens in a new tab) · Phase 2 · Sponsor: Pelage Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

  Registry status: Completed (checked September 19, 2026)

Reported results

• Primary endpoint reported as metSponsor-reported

  Sponsor reports the Phase 2a study met its primary safety endpoint, with a hair-density result in a subgroup

  Registered study: NCT06393452 (opens in a new tab) · Phase 2

  The developer states that the randomised study enrolled 78 men and women with androgenetic alopecia. Participants applied PP405 or placebo to the scalp once daily for 4 weeks and were followed to 12 weeks. At week 8, in men with a higher degree of hair loss, 31% of those treated with PP405 had a greater than 20% increase in hair density, compared with 0% of those in the placebo group. The developer states that the study met its primary safety endpoint and its secondary pharmacokinetic endpoint, with no systemic absorption of PP405 detected in the blood.

  Limitations

  Sponsor announcement, not peer-reviewed. The hair-density figure is for a subgroup (men with a higher degree of hair loss); results for the other participants are not given in the announcement. Treatment lasted only 4 weeks.

  Source

  Company announcementNot peer-reviewedPelage Pharmaceuticals announcement, 17 June 2025: Phase 2a results for PP405(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

1. Trial registry
   ClinicalTrials.gov record NCT06393452: PP405 in adults with androgenetic alopecia(opens in a new tab)

   ClinicalTrials.gov (U.S. National Library of Medicine) · NCT06393452

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Registry wording as at the access date; sponsors update records at their own pace.

2. Company announcementNot peer-reviewed
   Pelage Pharmaceuticals announcement, 15 October 2025: Series B financing(opens in a new tab)

   Pelage Pharmaceuticals · Published October 15, 2025

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Used only for the company's own description of what PP405 is designed to do.

3. Company announcementNot peer-reviewed
   Pelage Pharmaceuticals announcement, 17 June 2025: Phase 2a results for PP405(opens in a new tab)

   Pelage Pharmaceuticals · Published June 17, 2025

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Sponsor announcement, not peer-reviewed. The announcement carries no statement that the data are preliminary.

4. Company announcementNot peer-reviewed
   Pelage Pharmaceuticals press release index(opens in a new tab)

   Pelage Pharmaceuticals

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Used for the dates and titles of announcements listed there, including 13 August 2024 (first patients dosed in a Phase 2 study). As at the access date no listed announcement states that a Phase 3 study has started.

Ritlecitinib is a kinase inhibitor taken by mouth. It targets immune signalling involved in alopecia areata. As with other medicines in this group, its labelling carries important warnings; see the sourced sections below.

• United States

  Your country

  U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

  For: Alopecia areata

  ApprovedPrescription only

  Approved by the regulator for this condition.

  Brand names: Litfulo

  The FDA letter approves use for severe alopecia areata in adults and adolescents 12 years and older (label revised 6/2023). Prescription-only status is taken from the DailyMed label.

  Source

  Regulator recordFDA approval letter, NDA 215830: Litfulo (ritlecitinib) capsule(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

• Australia

  Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

  For: Alopecia areata

  Approved

  Approved by the regulator for this condition.

  Brand names: Litfulo

  Registered on 9 July 2024 for severe alopecia areata in adults and adolescents 12 years of age and older. The poisons schedule was not verified.

  Source

  Regulator recordTGA prescription medicines registration: LITFULO (Pfizer Australia Pty Ltd)(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

• For: Alopecia areata

  One randomised trial

  What this means: One randomised controlled trial has been published or reported to a regulator. This describes the kind of evidence, not how well the treatment works or whether it suits anyone. About this scale

  The US label reports one pivotal randomised placebo-controlled trial.

  Source

  Regulator recordLITFULO (ritlecitinib) capsules: FDA prescribing information, revised 6/2023(opens in a new tab)

• Janus kinase (JAK) inhibition. Blocks JAK enzymes, which relay signals from immune messengers inside cells.

• The US label states that ritlecitinib irreversibly inhibits Janus kinase 3 (JAK3) and the tyrosine kinase expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma (TEC) kinase family by blocking the adenosine triphosphate (ATP) binding site.

  Source

  Regulator recordLITFULO (ritlecitinib) capsules: FDA prescribing information, revised 6/2023(opens in a new tab)· Section 12.1· Checked September 19, 2026

• In the pivotal trial, which evaluated 718 subjects aged 12 years and older with alopecia areata, 23.0% of subjects taking 50 mg once daily (N=130) had 20% or less scalp hair loss (SALT score of 20 or less) at Week 24, compared with 1.6% on placebo (N=131). The difference from placebo was 21.4 percentage points (95% confidence interval 13.4 to 29.5).

  Source

  Regulator recordLITFULO (ritlecitinib) capsules: FDA prescribing information, revised 6/2023(opens in a new tab)· Section 14, Table 7· Checked September 19, 2026

• The label's limitations of use state that ritlecitinib is not recommended for use in combination with other JAK inhibitors, biologic immunomodulators, cyclosporine or other potent immunosuppressants.

  Source

  Regulator recordLITFULO (ritlecitinib) capsules: FDA prescribing information, revised 6/2023(opens in a new tab)· Section 1, Limitations of Use· Checked September 19, 2026

• The US label carries a boxed warning headed 'Serious infections, mortality, malignancy, major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), and thrombosis'.

  Source

  Regulator recordLITFULO (ritlecitinib) capsules: FDA prescribing information, revised 6/2023(opens in a new tab)· Boxed warning· Checked September 19, 2026

• The DailyMed label describes Litfulo as a prescription medicine and carries the statement 'Rx only'.

  Source

  Regulator recordLITFULO (ritlecitinib) capsule: DailyMed label(opens in a new tab)· Checked September 19, 2026

1. Regulator record
   FDA approval letter, NDA 215830: Litfulo (ritlecitinib) capsule(opens in a new tab)

   U.S. Food and Drug Administration · NDA 215830

   Read on September 19, 2026

2. Regulator record
   LITFULO (ritlecitinib) capsule: DailyMed label(opens in a new tab)

   U.S. National Library of Medicine (DailyMed)

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Used for the label's 'Rx only' statement.

3. Regulator record
   LITFULO (ritlecitinib) capsules: FDA prescribing information, revised 6/2023(opens in a new tab)

   U.S. Food and Drug Administration · NDA 215830

   Read on September 19, 2026

   The document itself states that it may not be the latest approved label.

4. Regulator record
   TGA prescription medicines registration: LITFULO (Pfizer Australia Pty Ltd)(opens in a new tab)

   Therapeutic Goods Administration

   Read on September 19, 2026

   Decision date 26 June 2024, registered 9 July 2024.

Rosemary oil comes from the rosemary plant (Rosmarinus officinalis). For pattern hair loss it is applied to the scalp, and it appears in many hair products as well as on its own. It is a plant product rather than a single medicine, and products differ in what they contain. See the sourced sections below for what is known about the study results and the risks.

• United States

  Your country

  U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Not yet verified

  We have not yet verified this. Do not rely on it.

  We have not yet checked how rosemary oil products used on the scalp are regulated in the United States.

  No source: this has not been checked.

• Australia

  Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Not yet verified

  We have not yet verified this. Do not rely on it.

  We have not yet checked how rosemary oil products used on the scalp are regulated in Australia.

  No source: this has not been checked.

• For: Androgenetic alopecia

  One randomised trial

  What this means: One randomised controlled trial has been published or reported to a regulator. This describes the kind of evidence, not how well the treatment works or whether it suits anyone. About this scale

  One randomised trial has been published, comparing rosemary oil with topical minoxidil rather than with a placebo.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperRosemary oil vs minoxidil 2% for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: a randomized comparative trial(opens in a new tab)

• The same review cites an in vivo study which found that rosemary extract contains 12-methoxycarnosic acid, which functions as an inhibitor of the 5α-reductase enzyme.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperDo Non-Prescription Products Help in Managing Androgenic Alopecia?(opens in a new tab)· Rosemary Oil section· Checked October 12, 2026

• A randomised comparative trial assigned patients with androgenetic alopecia to rosemary oil (n = 50) or minoxidil 2% (n = 50) for 6 months. It reported no significant change in mean hair count at 3 months in either group, a significant increase in hair count at 6 months compared with baseline in both groups, and no significant difference in hair count between the two groups at month 3 or month 6.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperRosemary oil vs minoxidil 2% for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: a randomized comparative trial(opens in a new tab)· Abstract· Checked October 12, 2026

• A review identified one randomised controlled trial of rosemary oil, in one hundred men, in which hair counts in the rosemary oil group rose from 122.8 ± 48.9 hairs at baseline to 129.6 ± 51.2 hairs at 6 months; the review notes that the size and location of the hair count area was not reported.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperDo Non-Prescription Products Help in Managing Androgenic Alopecia?(opens in a new tab)· Introduction; Rosemary Oil, Clinical Evidence section· Checked October 12, 2026

• The same review concludes that none of the non-prescription products it covered, rosemary oil included, were shown to be more effective than topical minoxidil or oral finasteride, and that the volume of available studies is lacking. It adds that, to the authors' knowledge, these products have no studies of long-term safety and effects of continuous use for over 1 year, and that the sample sizes may not be sufficient to identify uncommon or rare adverse events.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperDo Non-Prescription Products Help in Managing Androgenic Alopecia?(opens in a new tab)· Limitations and Conclusions sections· Checked October 12, 2026

• In the comparative trial, scalp itching at 3 and 6 months was significantly more frequent than at baseline in both groups, and more frequent in the minoxidil group than in the rosemary oil group. The frequencies of dry hair, greasy hair and dandruff did not differ significantly from baseline in either group.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperRosemary oil vs minoxidil 2% for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: a randomized comparative trial(opens in a new tab)· Abstract· Checked October 12, 2026

• The review states that, to the authors' knowledge, there are no reports of rosemary oil toxicity when applied topically, but that contact dermatitis may uncommonly occur.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperDo Non-Prescription Products Help in Managing Androgenic Alopecia?(opens in a new tab)· Rosemary Oil, Safety section· Checked October 12, 2026

• The review states that clinicians should exercise caution when recommending alternative treatments for androgenetic alopecia, as some agents could lead to adverse effects as 5α-reductase inhibitors or other unintended effects.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperDo Non-Prescription Products Help in Managing Androgenic Alopecia?(opens in a new tab)· Conclusions section· Checked October 12, 2026

• A review of non-prescription products describes rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) as containing antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds, and notes that rosemary oil is an ingredient in many hair growth cosmetic products.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperDo Non-Prescription Products Help in Managing Androgenic Alopecia?(opens in a new tab)· Rosemary Oil section· Checked October 12, 2026

1. Peer-reviewed paper
   Do Non-Prescription Products Help in Managing Androgenic Alopecia?(opens in a new tab)

   Skin Appendage Disorders · DOI 10.1159/000542880; PMID 40475103; PMCID PMC12136554 · Published December 6, 2024

   Read on October 12, 2026

   Review of investigator-blinded controlled trials of non-prescription products (including rosemary oil and pumpkin seed oil); full text read (PMC). Epub 2024-12-06; issue Skin Appendage Disord 2025;11(3):270-281.

2. Peer-reviewed paper
   Rosemary oil vs minoxidil 2% for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: a randomized comparative trial(opens in a new tab)

   Skinmed · PMID 25842469; Skinmed 2015;13(1):15-21

   Read on October 12, 2026

   Randomised comparative trial (rosemary oil vs minoxidil 2%); abstract read. PubMed gives the issue date only as Jan-Feb 2015, so no exact publication day is recorded.

Scalp massage can be done with the fingers or with a handheld device. Studies have used different techniques, schedules and devices, and it has been proposed to act by stretching the tissue around hair follicles. See the sourced sections below for the study results and the reported risks.

• United States

  Your country

  U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Not yet verified

  We have not yet verified this. Do not rely on it.

  We have not yet checked how scalp massage devices or their use for hair loss are regulated in the United States.

  No source: this has not been checked.

• Australia

  Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

  For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Not yet verified

  We have not yet verified this. Do not rely on it.

  We have not yet checked how scalp massage devices or their use for hair loss are regulated in Australia.

  No source: this has not been checked.

• For: Androgenetic alopecia

  Early human studies

  What this means: Only small, early-phase or uncontrolled human studies have been reported. This describes the kind of evidence, not how well the treatment works or whether it suits anyone. About this scale

  A small study in men without obvious hair loss and a retrospective survey with self-reported outcomes have been published. The small study compared massaged and unmassaged areas of the same scalp, and the survey had no control group.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperSelf-assessments of standardized scalp massages for androgenic alopecia: survey results(opens in a new tab)

• Mechanical stretching of scalp tissue. Applies pressure or stretching forces to the scalp. Proposed effects on hair follicle cells are still being studied.

• In laboratory experiments reported in the same paper, stretching cultured human dermal papilla cells changed their gene expression, with increased expression of hair cycle-related genes such as NOGGIN, BMP4, SMAD4 and IL6ST and decreased expression of IL6, which the authors describe as a hair loss-related gene.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperStandardized scalp massage results in increased hair thickness by inducing stretching forces to dermal papilla cells in the subcutaneous tissue(opens in a new tab)· Abstract· Checked October 12, 2026

• In the same study, 9 healthy Japanese men with no obvious hair loss received 4 minutes of standardised scalp massage a day with a scalp massage device on one side of the temporal scalp, with the other side left unmassaged. Hair thickness in the massaged area increased at 24 weeks compared with the start (0.085 ± 0.003 mm vs 0.092 ± 0.001 mm).

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperStandardized scalp massage results in increased hair thickness by inducing stretching forces to dermal papilla cells in the subcutaneous tissue(opens in a new tab)· Abstract; Methods; Results· Checked October 12, 2026

• In a retrospective online survey of people with self-assessed androgenetic alopecia who had been shown a demonstration of twice-daily, 20-minute standardised scalp massages using hand presses, pinches and stretches, 327 respondents reported attempting the massages, and 68.9% of them reported hair loss stabilisation or regrowth.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperSelf-assessments of standardized scalp massages for androgenic alopecia: survey results(opens in a new tab)· Abstract· Checked October 12, 2026

• The same study reports no significant change in hair growth rate in the massaged area, a significant decrease in hair count in the massaged area at 12 weeks compared with the start, and no significant difference in hair density between the massaged and unmassaged areas over 24 weeks. Its participants had no obvious hair loss, and it was funded in part by ANGFA Co, Ltd, which two of the authors list as their affiliation.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperStandardized scalp massage results in increased hair thickness by inducing stretching forces to dermal papilla cells in the subcutaneous tissue(opens in a new tab)· Methods; Results; author affiliations and funding note· Checked October 12, 2026

• The survey's authors state that it had no placebo or control group, that self-reported survey data do not allow objective evaluation of compliance or efficacy and may be subject to choice-supportive and recall bias, and that dermatological assessments are needed to determine whether self-perceptions match actual hair changes. One author discloses operating a commercial website that intends to provide education about and services for some of the concepts in the paper.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperSelf-assessments of standardized scalp massages for androgenic alopecia: survey results(opens in a new tab)· Discussion (limitations); Disclosures· Checked October 12, 2026

• A case report describes a man with androgenetic alopecia who developed acquired trichorrhexis nodosa, a hair shaft disorder in which hair breaks after nodular swelling, which the authors attributed to excessive rubbing of the scalp during a 10 to 15-minute massage after each application of topical minoxidil. He was advised to reduce the massage to 3 to 5 minutes and also received exosome injections.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperAcquired trichorrhexis nodosa caused by massage of the scalp after topical minoxidil: a case report and review of the literature(opens in a new tab)· Case report text· Checked October 12, 2026

• The authors of a small study hypothesised that scalp massage delivers mechanical forces to the scalp, including the epidermis, dermis, skin appendages, blood vessels and nerves, and stated that the effect of scalp massage on hair growth had not been evaluated in sound clinical trials.

  Source

  Peer-reviewed paperStandardized scalp massage results in increased hair thickness by inducing stretching forces to dermal papilla cells in the subcutaneous tissue(opens in a new tab)· Introduction· Checked October 12, 2026

1. Peer-reviewed paper
   Acquired trichorrhexis nodosa caused by massage of the scalp after topical minoxidil: a case report and review of the literature(opens in a new tab)

   Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology · DOI 10.1111/jocd.70258; PMID 40586326; PMCID PMC12207829 · Published July 1, 2025

   Read on October 12, 2026

   Full text read via Europe PMC. A single case report.

2. Peer-reviewed paper
   Self-assessments of standardized scalp massages for androgenic alopecia: survey results(opens in a new tab)

   Dermatology and Therapy · DOI 10.1007/s13555-019-0281-6; PMID 30671883; PMCID PMC6380978 · Published January 22, 2019

   Read on October 12, 2026

   Full text read via Europe PMC. One author discloses operating a commercial website intended to provide education about and services for some of the concepts in the paper.

3. Peer-reviewed paper
   Standardized scalp massage results in increased hair thickness by inducing stretching forces to dermal papilla cells in the subcutaneous tissue(opens in a new tab)

   Eplasty · PMID 26904154; PMCID PMC4740347 · Published January 25, 2016

   Read on October 12, 2026

   Full text read via Europe PMC. The study was funded in part by ANGFA Co, Ltd, and two of the authors list that company as their affiliation.