Huberman Lab: The Science of Healthy Hair, Hair Loss and How to Regrow Hair

The podcast begins with an overview of the biology of hair, explaining that hair growth is a cyclical process involving three phases: anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting). The length of these phases varies across individuals and body parts, and is influenced by various factors including hormones, age, and genetics.

The discussion then moves to the role of androgens, particularly Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), in hair growth and hair loss. DHT binds to receptors in the hair follicle, which can lead to miniaturization of the follicle and eventually hair loss in individuals with genetic sensitivity to DHT. This process is the primary cause of androgenetic alopecia, also known as male or female pattern baldness.

Huberman Labs then goes over botox and Hair Loss. Botox injections are being used to offset hair loss by reducing the tension of the scalp skin, which allows more blood flow to reach the hair follicle area. However, the efficacy of Botox for offsetting hair loss is not clear and the treatment has to be done repeatedly.

Chemical Variables. The podcast discusses key chemical players that control the duration of the hair growth phases. Insulin growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and cyclic AMP are known to extend the anagen phase, thus acting as accelerators for hair growth. On the other hand, phosphodiesterase (PDE) and TGF-beta-2 act as brakes on hair growth by shortening the anagen phase or extending the catagen and telogen phases.

Androgen-Related Alopecia. This is a common type of hair loss caused by testosterone and its derivatives. The podcast explains that as people age, there is more 5-alpha reductase activity, which converts more testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT inhibits hair growth by reducing IGF-1 and cyclic AMP.

Caffeine and Hair Growth: Topical caffeine application can be as effective as Minoxidil for preventing hair loss. Caffeine is a potent PDE inhibitor and can indirectly stimulate IGF-1, extending the anagen phase of hair growth. However, it’s not expected to create new hair growth.

Increasing IGF-1: One direct way to increase hair growth and maintain existing hair is to increase IGF-1. This can be accomplished through prescription drugs such as growth hormone and things that stimulate the release of growth hormone and IGF-1.

These are the various treatments for hair loss that are discussed, including:

Minoxidil (Rogaine): This over-the-counter medication works by prolonging the anagen phase and enlarging miniaturized follicles. It’s effective for both men and women, but must be used indefinitely to maintain results.

Finasteride (Propecia): This prescription medication inhibits the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone to DHT. It’s effective in slowing hair loss and promoting hair regrowth, but can have side effects such as decreased libido and erectile dysfunction. There’s also a risk of a condition called post-finasteride syndrome, which involves persistent sexual, neurological, and physical side effects after discontinuing the drug.

Dutasteride: Similar to finasteride, but inhibits both types of 5-alpha reductase and is more potent. It works faster than finasteride but has a higher risk of side effects.

Topical Treatments: These include ketoconazole (an antifungal that may disrupt the DHT pathway) and topical caffeine (which can stimulate hair follicles).

Mechanical Stimulation: Methods like scalp massage and microneedling can stimulate blood flow and potentially promote hair growth.

Natural DHT Blockers: Compounds like saw palmetto and pumpkin seed oil may help reduce DHT levels, though the evidence is less robust than for other treatments.

The podcast emphasizes that individual responses to these treatments can vary widely, and that a combination of treatments is often more effective than any single one. It also stresses the importance of patience, as hair growth is a slow process and it can take several months to see results from treatments.

The podcast concludes with a discussion of ongoing research into new treatments for hair loss, including stem cell therapies and drugs that target prostaglandin D2, a lipid compound that may inhibit hair growth.

Overall, the podcast provides a comprehensive overview of the science of hair growth and loss, and the various treatments available for managing hair loss. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the underlying biology when considering treatment options, and encourages listeners to approach hair loss treatment as a long-term project that requires patience and may involve some trial and error.