Overview
A personal trainer describes his 16-week experiment to reverse hair thinning using dietary adjustments, supplements, and topical compounds, ultimately achieving noticeable regrowth without pharmaceutical interventions.
Background and Motivation
- Began losing hair in his mid-20s, first at the crown, then at the hairline.
- Experienced side effects from topical minoxidil and chose not to use finasteride due to potential risks.
- Observed that hair loss is a significant stressor for men in the fitness industry.
Risks of Conventional Treatments
- Finasteride, commonly used for hair loss, can cause sexual dysfunction, depression, and other side effects, sometimes persisting after discontinuation.
- Government warnings highlight potential serious psychiatric and sexual side effects with finasteride.
Natural Approach and Research
- Investigated multiple causes of hair loss beyond DHT, such as nutrient deficiencies, inflammation, oxidative stress, and gut health.
- Consulted health community and reviewed academic research to identify promising natural ingredients and protocols.
Supplements and Topical Treatments Used
- Utilized a regimen including Redensyl (for follicle stem cells), copper peptides (GHK-Cu, stimulates follicles and scalp health), niacinamide, and topical caffeine.
- Applied beef tallow and castor oil for their nourishing and anti-inflammatory properties; found rosemary oil too greasy.
- Additional oral supplements tried: bamboo extract (for silica), betaine HCL (for digestion), and biotin (vitamin B7 for keratin production).
Diet and Nutrition Adjustments
- Regularly consumed liver and oysters for zinc and other nutrients, plus raw egg yolks and collagen shakes.
- Increased intake of collagen and gelatine from organ meats, chicken skin, bone broth, and homemade jelly.
- Avoided intermittent fasting and low-carb diets, citing research linking these diets to increased hair loss.
Exercise and Lifestyle Factors
- Reduced physical and mental stress by limiting intense workouts and ensuring regular, moderate physical activity.
- Maintained weight training three days per week and daily walking.
Ineffective Methods
- Topical melatonin, minoxidil, and dermarolling were discontinued due to side effects or lack of results.
Results and Recommendations
- Saw significant hair regrowth and reversal of thinning after 16 weeks on the regimen.
- Suggests boosting gelatine intake and using caffeine, copper peptide, and Redensyl for those noticing hair thinning.
- Acknowledges diet and exercise alone may not be as effective as supplement-based interventions but are still beneficial for overall health.
Recommendations / Advice
- Investigate natural solutions early when noticing hair thinning.
- Prioritize evidence-based ingredients and monitor for side effects.
- Avoid restrictive diets linked to increased hair loss.