When it comes to hair growth, there are many products on the Singapore market that promise you thicker and fuller-looking hair. However, not all of them are created equally and it can be difficult for you to determine which ingredients are best.
To help you make a better and more informed decision, we’ve compiled a list of top
ingredients to look for when choosing hair growth products or supplements for hair loss.
Hair growth ingredients you need to know
Minoxidil
Minoxidil is a topical solution for treating hair loss. It is used in the treatment of male pattern hair loss and female pattern hair loss. Under guidelines by the Health Sciences Authority (HSA), minoxidil is allowed to be produced in concentrations of 2,3 and 5% in lotion or foam products.
When applied to the scalp twice daily, minoxidil has been shown to stimulate hair growth as it dilates blood vessels and improves cell regeneration. The effects of Minoxidil are not permanent, however, and it is important to stay the course of your minoxidil intake to prevent hair loss symptoms from returning.
Finasteride
Studies have found that finasteride is effective in improving hair count in adult males. It is widely approved across the world and used to treat male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia).
Finasteride is a synthetic 5-alpha reductase inhibitor, which helps to reduce the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that can cause hair loss. By reducing the amount of DHT in the scalp, finasteride slows down the progression of hair loss and can even regrow lost hair. The level of hair restoration varies among different people, however.
Minoxidil can be consumed as an oral supplement or applied topically.
Saw palmetto
Saw palmetto is a plant native to the United States and has been used to treat prostate issues, along with promoting hair growth. It can prevent hair loss by reducing the production of DHT and thus minimising its absorption into hair follicles.
While research on saw palmetto is still ongoing, its effects on hair loss have been seen in a few studies. In one, nearly half of 25 participants saw an improvement in hair count of nearly 12% after four months.
Proteoglycan
Proteoglycans play an important role in hair growth. They are molecules that contain proteins and are found throughout the body. In hair follicles, proteoglycans regulate the way hair grows and ensure each follicle goes through the hair growth cycle (growth, transition and rest) properly.
Age-related or genetic hair loss are linked to declining levels of proteoglycan. By using a product or supplement with proteoglycans, you may be able to replenish your hair or stave off hair loss.
Ginkgo leaf extract
Ginkgo leaf extract has been found to be beneficial for hair loss and growth. It is extracted from the dried leaves of Ginkgo Biloba and has become one of the most popular hair growth supplements in the market.
Regular application or ingestion of ginkgo leaf extract can improve blood circulation throughout the scalp, countering the shrinking of hair follicles and accelerating hair growth. The herbal ingredient is available in the form of tablets and capsules for oral consumption, or hair tonics for topical application.
Peppermint oil
Peppermint oil can help with hair growth by increasing blood flow to the scalp and thus stimulating hair follicles. A 4-week study demonstrated the effects of peppermint oil on hair growth, including an increase in strand thickness, follicle number, and follicle depth.
Peppermint oil may also help with scalp irritation and dandruff. Its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties can help to keep the scalp clean and healthy, which is crucial in maintaining healthy hair growth.
Biomimetic peptides
Biomimetic peptides are derived from naturally occurring peptides found in human skin and hair follicles. They mimic the action of natural peptides and stimulate the growth of hair follicles by promoting the production of new cells.
These peptides act on the stem cells in hair follicles, which are responsible for the growth and maintenance of hair. Some examples of biomimetic peptides are acetyl decapeptide, biotinoyl tripeptide and oligopeptide. They are available as hair serums for topical application.
Looking for supplements for hair growth?
Knowing what ingredients help with hair growth and how exactly they work can help you make an informed decision with your next purchase.
It should be noted, however, that in hair growth products these ingredients tend to be formulated with other ingredients that come with their effects. To know exactly which supplement to take with your health profile in mind, it might be best to consult a professional.
A professional can also help if you have tried various supplements with little to no success.Terra Medical is a hair restoration focused clinic in Singapore. We treat hair loss and other hair conditions with a holistic approach, matching surgical treatments with supplements where necessary.
Get in touch with us today for a consultation.
