Can an antioxidant treatment reduce hair shedding?
Michael G. Davis, Melissa P. Piliang, Wilma F. Bergfeld, Tamara L. Caterino, Brian K. Fisher, Jarek P. Sacha, Greg J. Carr, Laura T. Moulton, D. J. Whittenbarger, J. R. Schwartz
The Procter & Gamble Company; Cleveland Clinic
Scalp application of the antioxidant piroctone olamine reduces hair shedding in an 8-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study
BACKGROUND
Hair loss is a common concern, and while there are limited options to regrow lost hair, preventing premature hair thinning is a viable solution. Research suggests that increased scalp oxidative stress contributes to premature hair shedding. Prior studies have demonstrated that topical application of antioxidants can create a scalp environment that reduces premature hair loss.
OBJECTIVE
To test the effectiveness of the individual antioxidant piroctone olamine in two different product forms (shampoo or leave-on product) for activity to improve hair retention.
METHOD
Female subjects with self-perceived hair thinning participated in an 8-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical study. The study evaluated either a piroctone olamine (PO) containing shampoo or a PO containing leave-on treatment, each relative to their corresponding placebo formulation. Hair measurements were done at baseline and after 8 weeks of test formulation usage. Measurements for subjects treated with shampoo included phototrichogram, trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) measurements and tape strips for biomarker assessments.
RESULTS
Statistically significant increases in hair amount were observed by phototrichogram after use of both PO-containing products versus placebo formulations. The PO shampoo treatment also significantly decreased oxidative stress on the hair and scalp, and improved scalp condition as assessed by TEWL and scalp biomarker values.
CONCLUSION
These results illustrate the effectiveness of a cosmetic antioxidant to improve scalp condition thereby improving hair retention. The observed improvements in scalp condition are consistent with previous reports with other antioxidant technologies and suggest that the hair retention effect was achieved by preventing oxidative damage to the scalp. Consumers can learn that using products with antioxidants like piroctone olamine may help improve scalp condition and reduce hair shedding.
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CONFLICT OF INTEREST STATEMENT
All funding for this research was provided by The Procter & Gamble Company (Cincinnati, OH, USA). Conflict of interest: The authors are employees of The Procter & Gamble Company.