Minoxidil is still a popular remedy to tackle hair loss. After all, it is the oldest scientifically proven substance that stimulates hair growth. Its action is not fully understood, but the east common theory goes that it dilates blood vessels, making it easier for hair follicles to grow. This causes the growth of tiny vellus hairs. Which just gives you a fuller bush. However, it does not address the root of the problem. Hence, there is still a search for better-working remedies for hair loss.
Minoxidil is still a popular remedy to tackle hair loss. After all, it is the oldest scientifically proven substance that stimulates hair growth. Its action is not fully understood, but the east common theory goes that it dilates blood vessels, making it easier for hair follicles to grow. This causes the growth of tiny vellus hairs. Which just gives you a fuller bush. However, it does not address the root of the problem. Hence, there is still a search for better-working remedies for hair loss.
The most common form of hair loss is androgenetic alopecia. This is the Latin name for hereditary hair loss or hereditary baldness. In men, this manifests itself in the well-known inlets and bald crown. What is less known is that this occurs among women. It manifests itself differently in women. Here, hair loss occurs more all over the scalp, starting at the middle parting. Although hereditary hair loss is the most common, this does not mean that many women suffer from it. It is most common in men. The percentage of men suffering from it increases with age. 30 per cent of all men around 30 years old already experience some hair loss. 50 per cent of all fiftysomethings and 70 to 80 per cent of all men in their seventies.
What happens in this hereditary hair loss is the hair follicles that are sensitive to the substance dihydrotestosterone (DHT) are attacked by it to eventually disappear. DHT is a by-product of testosterone and the major responsible for the actual process of hair loss. If a drug causes this substance to be inhibited, you avoid hair loss. You can also ensure that hair growth is made easier by nourishing the hair with the right ingredients. It is also possible to stimulate hair growth by making it easier for hairs to grow.
What is adenosine, and how does it stimulate hair growth?
Adenosine is a substance native to the body and an important organic compound that performs various functions in the human body. Thus, the body produces this substance itself. A number of studies where a solution of adenosine was applied to the scalp showed that it can provide improved hair growth in both men and women.
These studies showed positive results for adenosine on hair growth. We had a closer look at these studies. The first study also compared adenosine with minoxidil.
Adenosine molecule
"Comparison of the Efficacy of Topical Minoxidil 5% and Adenosine 0.75% Solutions on Male Androgenetic Alopecia and Measuring Patient Satisfaction Rate"
The main findings of this study are:
This study aimed to compare the effects of minoxidil in a 5% solution and adenosine in a 0.75% solution on male hair loss by investigating their impact on growth and vasodilator effect. A total of 110 male patients with advanced hair loss participated in this study. There were 55 patients in each group. However, 16 patients were later excluded due to allergic reactions or lack of follow-up.
Treatment effects were evaluated after 3 and 6 months. This looked at full and relative recovery rates, plus patient satisfaction. After 3 months, both groups showed similar recovery rates. Similarly, after 6 months, there was no change in relative recovery rates within or between the groups.
However, patient satisfaction was significantly higher in the group using adenosine. The study concluded that adenosine was not a statistical improvement over minoxidil in terms of hair growth. Nevertheless, the higher satisfaction of patients who used adenosine suggests its potential benefits. The study points to the need for further research with larger sample sizes or different drug doses to clarify these findings.
"Adenosine increases anagen hair growth and thick hairs in Japanese women with female pattern hair loss: A pilot, double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial"
study results
0.75%
adenosine gives better results than 5% minoxidil
84%
improvement of hair after 12 months of use
The main findings of this study are:
In this study of 30 Japanese women with hereditary hair loss, adenosine showed significantly better results than a placebo. Adenosine helped grow hair and thicken thin hair by increasing the activity of certain growth factors in the scalp. The women used a 0.75% adenosine lotion or a placebo twice daily for 12 months. The researchers and the women themselves reported that adenosine was more effective. It stimulated hair growth and provided thicker hair without side effects. This study shows that adenosine may be useful in treating hair loss in women, similar to the effects experienced in men with hereditary hair loss.
These two studies show that adenosine may have potential benefits in treating hair loss, both in men and women. While the comparative study between minoxidil and adenosine in men showed no statistical difference in hair growth, another study with women revealed that adenosine was more effective than a placebo. It seems that adenosine has beneficial results for hair loss, especially in women, by stimulating hair growth and making thinner hair thicker. Future research with larger groups and different doses is needed to further clarify these findings.
This article has been updated on 24-11-2023 to reflect new findings and insights.
Frequently asked questions
Adenosine is a naturally occurring substance found in the body that plays a role in cellular energy transfer (via ATP) and signal transduction. For hair, adenosine helps by stimulating dermal papilla cells, which are crucial for hair follicle growth and the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle.
Both men and women with androgenetic alopecia or general thinning hair can benefit from adenosine. It is particularly suitable for people looking for a milder alternative to minoxidil or those with sensitive scalps.
Adenosine is well tolerated and has minimal side effects. Some users may experience mild scalp irritation, but this is less common compared to treatments such as minoxidil.
Noticeable improvements in hair density and thickness can take 4–6 months after consistent use. Subtle improvements, such as reduced shedding and improved hair quality, may be visible sooner.
Yes, adenosine is safe for long-term use and is unlikely to cause serious side effects, making it an attractive option for people looking for a gentle hair growth remedy.
