Para-Aminobenzoic Acid (PABA) has been called the anti-gray hair vitamin and is considered one of the lesser known members of the vitamin B complex family (despite the fact that it’s not really a vitamin at all). PABA is a non-protein amino acid and isn’t essential in the human body. It can be found in foods such as liver, whole grain, yeast, and kidney and is listed as an active ingredient in several popular herbal hair loss treatments such as Provillusfor women and Procerin.
The potassium salt in PABA called POTABA is available on prescription. POTABA is indicated for Peyronie’s Disease and scleroderma. The dose for Peyronie’s disease and scleroderma is very high (12 grams daily in 4 to 5 distributions) and must only be used under medical supervision. Because of the high doses needed to achieve clinical efficacy, patient compliance is typically poor.
But can PABA actually treat male pattern baldnessor genetic female hair loss?
Some tests conclude that PABA when combined with other elements such as folate, biotin, and pantothenic acid, may restore pre-maturely graying hair to its natural color. Some anecdotal reports suggest it might also stop hair loss, however; there are at least as many reports that contradict this. Moreover, we haven’t seen any evidence to suggest it can stimulate new hair growth or hair regrowth.
PABA comes in doses of 100mg, 250mg, and 500mg as a standalone product. However, since no formal clinical studies have been performed on PABA for hair loss, a suitable dosage is mostly speculation. Additionally, since no regulations have been placed on herbal medication, one should proceed with extreme caution before taking any herbal supplement. Consulting with a doctor is advised.
Some manufacturers of herbal replacements to medication would have you believe that herbal treatments come without potential side effects. However, this is a farce.
The following side effects have been reported from consumers of PABA: Anorexia, vomiting, nausea, hypersensitivity, fever and rash (particularly with larger doses). These symptoms went away when PABA is stopped.
Ironically, Provillusonly includes PABA in the woman’s formula. However, women should know that pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children should avoid using PABA.
For those with renal disease, PABA should be used with caution. PABA should be stopped if hypersensitivity develops. Those taking pharmaceutical doses of PABA must be under medical supervision.
Soon after the Middle Ages wigs became popular for women. Then in the 1600’s the flamboyant and incredibly vain King Louis XIV of France lost his hair from a severe illness and took to wearing gigantic wigs thus setting the fashion for most men of his day.
These enormous creations featured such items as cages with live birds and could weigh up to 20 lbs.!
By the 1700’s England made another contribution to bad hair loss concealers. This was the age of the long, curly, and powered wigs. Even today, English judges and lawyers continue this practice. Thus the expression for those in authority – “Big Wigs.”
The early 1800’s is renowned in hair loss circles as the age of the con men. There were hundreds of so-called “hair loss solutions” and many lasted well into the late 1900’s.
These treatments were marketed by fast-talking “doctors,” skilled only in bravery and possessing nerves of steel considering they were conning hardened cowboys and outlaws!
The salesmen hawked their products from the safety of their side shows and “Wild West” spectaculars. They used endless tricks to get people to buy their products, including rubbing grease into their hair to make it look thicker.
During the past several decades, superstition, old wives tales, and guess work has gradually been replaced by science.
In 1939, a Japanese dermatologist, Dr. Okuda, published a revolutionary method in a Japanese medical journal that would lay the ground work for modern hair transplantation.
This method involved using hair transplant grafts to correct lost hair from various areas, including the scalp, eyebrow, and moustache areas. However, this study didn’t make an impact in the Western Hemisphere due to the interruption of World War II.
In the late 50’s one physician in particular, Dr. Norman Orentriech, began to experiment with the idea of relocating or transplanting the hair on the back and sides of the head to the balding areas.
Dr. Orentriech’s experiments showed that when bald resistant hairs from the back and sides of the head were relocated, they maintained their bald resistant genetic characteristic regardless of where they were transplanted.
This principle, known as “Donor Dominance”, established that hair could be transplanted from the bald resistant donor areas to the balding areas and continues to grow for a life time. This laid the foundation for modern hair transplantation.
During the 60’s and 70’s surgical hair restoration grew in popularity. However, the standard procedure used large grafts that were removed by round punches and often contained many hairs.
Completed Result after Multiple Sessions of Large Grafts
This now outdated technique could achieve a full look if a patient completed all planned sessions. However, a patient was typically limited in the manner they could style their hair.
Patients who stopped short of completing all planned sessions were left with hair loss solutions that looked obvious and unnatural.
Such uncompleted hair restoration results are some times referred to as “barbie doll hair” or “corn rows”.
Many who have had these older techniques now refine or complete their hair transplants with today’s very refined techniques to achieve a natural look that they can style in any manner.
From big wigs to surgical hair restoration
Soon after the Middle Ages wigs became popular for women. Then in the 1600’s the flamboyant and incredibly vain King Louis XIV of France lost his hair from a severe illness and took to wearing gigantic wigs thus setting the fashion for most men of his day.
These enormous creations featured such items as cages with live birds and could weigh up to 20 lbs.!
By the 1700’s England made another contribution to bad hair loss concealers. This was the age of the long, curly, and powered wigs. Even today, English judges and lawyers continue this practice. Thus the expression for those in authority – “Big Wigs.”
The early 1800’s is renowned in hair loss circles as the age of the con men. There were hundreds of so-called “hair loss solutions” and many lasted well into the late 1900’s.
These treatments were marketed by fast-talking “doctors,” skilled only in bravery and possessing nerves of steel considering they were conning hardened cowboys and outlaws!
The salesmen hawked their products from the safety of their side shows and “Wild West” spectaculars. They used endless tricks to get people to buy their products, including rubbing grease into their hair to make it look thicker.
During the past several decades, superstition, old wives tales, and guess work has gradually been replaced by science.
In 1939, a Japanese dermatologist, Dr. Okuda, published a revolutionary method in a Japanese medical journal that would lay the ground work for modern hair transplantation.
This method involved using hair transplant grafts to correct lost hair from various areas, including the scalp, eyebrow, and moustache areas. However, this study didn’t make an impact in the Western Hemisphere due to the interruption of World War II.
In the late 50’s one physician in particular, Dr. Norman Orentriech, began to experiment with the idea of relocating or transplanting the hair on the back and sides of the head to the balding areas.
Dr. Orentriech’s experiments showed that when bald resistant hairs from the back and sides of the head were relocated, they maintained their bald resistant genetic characteristic regardless of where they were transplanted.
This principle, known as “Donor Dominance”, established that hair could be transplanted from the bald resistant donor areas to the balding areas and continues to grow for a life time. This laid the foundation for modern hair transplantation.
During the 60’s and 70’s surgical hair restoration grew in popularity. However, the standard procedure used large grafts that were removed by round punches and often contained many hairs.
Completed Result after Multiple Sessions of Large Grafts
This now outdated technique could achieve a full look if a patient completed all planned sessions. However, a patient was typically limited in the manner they could style their hair.
Patients who stopped short of completing all planned sessions were left with hair loss solutions that looked obvious and unnatural.
Such uncompleted hair restoration results are some times referred to as “barbie doll hair” or “corn rows”.
Many who have had these older techniques now refine or complete their hair transplants with today’s very refined techniques to achieve a natural look that they can style in any manner.
Revivogen hair loss treatment is a "3 in 1" all inclusive product that comes with scalp therapy, one eyedropper, one shampoo and one conditioner.
This topical scalp therapy treatment, equally effective for both men and women, claims to be very successful at inhibiting the 5-alpha reductase enzyme, which converts testosterone into DHT (dihydrotestosterone). The makers of Revivogen claim that it is even more effective than Propecia in reducing DHT in the scalp without the unwanted side effects. It's also potentially the most potent topical antiandrogen on the market. Antiandrogen hair loss treatments like Revivogen inhibit the production of the male hormone DHT. The makers of Revivogen claim that it is even more effective than Propecia in reducing DHT in the scalp without the unwanted side effects. This product however, has not been approved for hair loss by the FDA.
Revivogen all natural medicated shampoo is one of the few shampoos that includes ingredients scientifically supported to help inhibit the production of DHT and its binding to hair follicles. A 12oz bottle should last just under 2 months.
Revivogen shampoo has ingredients that complement the Scalp Therapy solution, increases scalp circulation, opens pores, and produces a cooling and refreshing menthol feeling on the scalp.
Revivogen Thickening Conditioner revives limp and thinning hair in men and women by moisturizing and strengthening the hair shaft. Natural proteins add natural volume, shine and create the appearance of thicker and fuller hair. For best use, we recommend using this conditioner with Revivogen Shampoo. Or, get the discounted Revivogen Shampoo and Conditioner combination instead to save money.
We strongly recommend using Nizoral shampoo every 2 or 3 days in conjunction with these treatments. Its active ingredient ketoconazolehas proven to be a moderate DHT inhibitor and has growth properties approximately as effective as Rogaine 2%.
Revivogen contains scientifically backed ingredients including Azelaic Acid, Vitamin B6, Zinc, Saw Palmetto, GLA and ALA which are fatty acids proven to inhibit the production of DHT. Reducing the amount of DHT in the body and scalp reduces the risk of vulnerable hair follicles dying and falling out.
For proper treatment, Revivogen should be applied at least once a day to the scalp's affected areas as well as the surrounding areas. Once you've used the medication, you should not wash your hair for at least three hours. This allows the active ingredients to be absorbed into your scalp The effects of Revivogen may take some time to work. Most users claim to experience their desired results after about 6 months of use.
Revivogen contains no reported side effects.
Men and women sometimes suffer from hair loss for different reasons. Thus, diagnosing its cause is necessary to facilitate and promote proper treatment. Revivogen is not clinically proven or approved by the FDA.
Revivogen and other antiandrogens (such as Propecia, Crinagen, Nizoral, Revita, etc.) may provide marginal benefit to men and women trying to maintain existing hair due to androgenic alopecia. Propecia by far is the most effective and only proven antiandrogen. For the best chance at regrowing hair non-surgically, adding a hair growth stimulant such as Rogaineor Tricomin is crucial.
Don't expect immediate results. It's recommended to use Revivogen for at least 6 to 12 months before determining its effectiveness. Documenting your progress with bi-monthly photos can help you determine whether or not Revivogen has been successful in helping you maintain existing hair.
To date, only surgical hair restoration is proven to grow hair in completely bald areas. You are invited to have a free virtual consultation with one of our prescreened hair restoration physicians.
A staggering 50% of men and 30% of women will experience some degree of thinning hair by the age of 50. Along with state of the art hair transplant surgery and credible drug treatments like Propecia (finasteride) and Rogaine (minoxidil), many balding men (and women) have added credible concealers like Nanogen to their daily treatment regimen.
As the term implies, concealers do not actually regrow hair but rather cosmetically enhance the appearance of balding areas of the scalp by reducing the contrast between scalp and hair color and/or adding fullness to thin, wispy hair follicles. Nanogen is no exception however, Nanogen is very popular and differs from other topical concealers in several areas.
Nanogen is made of microscopic keratin fibers. Keratin is the same material that natural hair is composed of, giving the product a natural look and feel when applied to existing thinning hair. Unlike other fiber-based hair loss concealers, Nanogen’s “nanofibers” have a patent pending, “dipolar” electrostatic charge coating that causes them to cling to existing hairs in a fashion resembling needles on a Christmas tree rather than lying flat against the follicles. It’s this perpendicular binding that gives what some users have described as an immediate “lift” to the hair. By increasing the diameter of each individual follicle from root to tip, Nanogen is able to enhance the appearance of hair density resulting in the illusion of a full head of hair.
Nanogen is available in ten different shades. These colors can even be combined to invisibly blend with your natural hair. The fibers are sprinkled onto the balding scalp from an applicator reminiscent of a large pepper shakerand then blended with the fingertips. Once the desired effect is achieved, there is an optional locking mist available to help the fibers stay in place through inclement weather conditions, intense exercise and perspiration.
Users should take care when applying Nanogen near the hairline. Over application can result in accumulation and an unnatural appearance.
Nanogen’s keratin-based nanofibers are an excellent choice for balding men and women wishing to improve the appearance of thinning hair. Unlike some creams, sprays or make-up type concealers, Nanogen fibers are odor-free, non-itchy, wash out easily and won’t stain your clothing or pillowcase. With practice, the application is clean, quick and simple.
For an in-depth comparison of Nanogen and similar fiber-based hair loss concealer Toppik, see the discussion topic, Product Review: Nanogen. To see what other members and Nanogen users are saying, you are encouraged to use the "search" feature of our hair restoration discussion forum.
Anyone suffering the effects of an incurable and debilitating medical condition yearns for the promise of new and revolutionary treatment options and hair loss sufferers are no exception. Though often dismissed as insignificant by those who are unaffected by it, baldness and thinning hair can devastate the lives of millions of men and women susceptible to the effects of androgenic alopecia. The desperation to restore the flowing locks of youth make this demographic particularly susceptible to slick marketing campaigns promising to halt balding and regrow hair. One such product marketed in this fashion is Europe’s TRX2 Molecular Hair Loss Treatment. But, will hair loss sufferers find follicles behind the flash?
TRX2 Molecular Hair Loss Treatment is not a drug or medication. It is an herbal, dietary supplement taken orally. A glance at its ingredients list reveals nothing new or revolutionary. Each component is readily available at your local nutritional supplement shop, though you may not find the same concentrations of each in a single product. It's ingredients are listed below:
Ingredients: L-carnitine tartrate (800 mg), potassium chloride (191 mg), L-leucine (150 mg), isoleucine (75 mg), valine (75 mg), nicotinic acid (40 mg), and biotin (150 µg).
With these ingredients so readily available, one might wonder if the significant cost savings of purchasing them individually and mixing your own TRX2 at home is just as effective for hair growth. The official website’s FAQ addresses this notion with the following response.
“The benefit of taking TRX2™ Molecular Hair Growth Supplement singularly, as opposed to buying each ingredient separately, is based on several facts:
The precise amount and ratio of ingredients in our supplement are carefully chosen and engineered based on credible scientific studies. The ingredients in our capsule were specifically formulated to work in concert with one another and are manufactured in accordance with strict European quality controls. For the consumer, the convenience of taking all compounds at the optimum ratio in one capsule and delivered via our proprietary potassium channel stimulating complex is crucially important.”
Perhaps this is true. However, at a hefty €54.95 (about $72) for a one month supply, those seeking to save some money may want to give the home brew option a shot first.
Additionally, referencing scientific studies is an effective way to add legitimacy to a product but one must always consider the source. While the TRX2 website provides detailed data gathered from a “randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study”, it is unclear who conducted the study and there is no mention of publication in a peer reviewed journal. Peer review is the industry standard for evaluation of clinical trial results and its absence is cause for concern.
TRX2 claims to stop hair loss and regrow hair through the “rejuvenation of potassium ion channels within hair follicles”. This theory is based on research suggesting that the opening of potassium channels is an important regulatory mechanism for hair growth.
A bold statement at the top of the TRX2 website states that it has been shown to regrow hair in nearly 9 out of 10 men and women. But, does TRX2 really do what it claims? The bottom of the company’s website provides a very important disclaimer.
“These statements have not been evaluated by the medicines regulatory agencies. This product is not a drug or medicine, and is therefore not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. This patent-pending food supplement contains nutrients that help promote and sustain healthy hair growth. Results may vary and are subject to your individual metabolism. Regarding risks and side-effects please see the package insert and ask your physician or healthcare specialist.”
Careful wording in the above statement may give consumers the wrong idea. Helping to “promote and sustain healthy hair growth” is not the same as stopping hair loss or regrowing hair lost due to the effects of androgenic alopecia. A quality shampoo and condition can make hair more manageable and appear fuller.
While TRX2 contains "drug-free" ingredients that are all natural or synthesized as normal metabolites in the human body, there is a potential for certain side effects.
Some consumers of TRX2 have reported transitory gastrointestinal effects including an upset stomach. Thus, it is recommended to take TRX2 after eating. Additional side effects include the possibility of allergic reactions such as skin flushes. If any of these conditions occur, it is recommended to consult a physician.
It is also recommended that any potential customers suffering from digestive system disorders, diabetes or those who are glucose-intolerant consult with their physician before taking TRX2.
Moreover, pregnant women and nursing mothers should avoid taking TRX2 due to its lack of long term safety data.
The role of potassium channels in hair growth is still being investigated and it’s unclear if TRX2 truly has the potential to significantly affect these channels. However, there is a clinically proven and FDA approved medical hair loss treatment that is known to do so. Rogaine (minoxidil) has been used successfully by balding men and women for more than 20 years. The exact mechanisms by which minoxidil affects hair growth are not fully understood but it is a known vasodilator and has also been shown to enhance the flow of potassium ions. Given that minoxidil is relatively inexpensive, clinically proven and comes with very little risk of side effects, it may be a better option for hair loss suffering men and women.
Additionally, balding men should seriously consider adding Propecia (finasteride) to their hair growth regimen. Propecia stops hair loss at its core by inhibiting the production of DHT (the hormone responsible for genetic baldness) and is arguably the most effective treatment for male pattern balding currently available.
When it comes to “new and revolutionary” hair loss treatments, proceed with caution. There is nothing wrong with trying a new treatment provided it is safe and purchased from a reliable source. However, forgoing tried and true medical treatment s in favor of experimental products may result in further loss of precious and irreplaceable hair.
To share your thoughts and experience with TRX2 on our hair loss forum, join the discussion “TRX2: Any Feedback?”.
Hair loss suffers often don’t want to admit that going bald bothers them. But there's nothing wrong or vain about being concerned with hair loss.No matter what people say, having hair or not does matter. We are judged by our appearance. And hair loss, also known as alopecia, is generally seen as a sign of weakness and aging.
"At first I just didn't feel comfortable admitting that I wanted my hair back."– Dean, restored his hair with Propecia and hair restoration surgery.
Hair loss Statistics – Hair loss affects about 35 million men and 21 million women in the United States alone.40% of men have noticeable hair loss by age 35 and 65% by age 60.
First you need to understand why hair loss occurs. In Cause of Thinning Hair and Baldness you'll learn that your hair loss has little or nothing to do with shampooing, hats, or any other practices. Alopecia is largely genetic.
It's also important to deal with the psychological and emotional effects of hair loss. In the Psychology of hair loss these personal issues and how society views hair loss are uncovered.
Regardless of our differences, hair loss can affect anyone. However,there are a variety of gender and racial differences to consider.Age is also a prime factor. In Race, Age and Hair Loss these differences are explored.
Hair loss is not a new phenomenon, as our Ancient Hair Loss "Cures" section reveals. Whether it's Julius Caesar using wreaths to hide his thinning, or French King Louis XIV's elaborate 15-20 pound wigs -- history's filled with interesting tales of balding cover-ups. This section also explores the reality behind many Hair Loss Myths and “cures”, from electro-shock treatments to headstands.
Balding men and women considering any hair loss treatment should take caution to believe the many magnificent claims made by today’s advertising. Far too often, a lot of time and money is wasted on questionable treatments with little or no proof of success.
Nourkrin hair nutrient claims to promote hair growth and strengthen thinning hair in 80% of men and women suffering from almost any hair loss condition other than the self-inflicted trichotillomania (hair pulling) or traction alopecia. Below we evaluate Nourkrin, the "clinical study", and its ingredients to find out whether or not this hair loss treatment lives up to its promises.
Nourkrin recommends using their complete regime of products for at least 6 months for the best results. This includes extra strength, Man, and Maintain oral tablets, a shampoo, a conditioner, and a scalp lotion. Nourkrin claims their products can promote hair growth in men and women suffering from androgenic alopecia (genetic baldness), alopecia areata, alopecia totalis, alopecia universalis, and telogen effluvium. This is a very bold claim considering each balding condition occurs for varying reasons.
The active ingredients in the extra strength tablet include shark cartilage and shellfish extract containing glucosamine. Other active ingredients include silica kieselguhr (a natural form of silica), horsetail extract, acerola cherry extract with vitamin C, microscyrstaline cellulose, immunogloblin G protein, and fatty acids. In addition to the above, the Man product contains Omega 3 fatty acids and Fenugreek designed to improve scalp circulation. Maintain includes additional marine life proteins, minerals, silica, and vitamin C. The scalp lotion contains marine life protein extract compounds and aloe vera.
Nourkrin claims that the primary active ingredient glucosamine can rebuild and grow new tissue, including dormant hair follicles - suggesting successful hair regrowth. Though clinical studies prove that glucosamine might be effective in reducing joint pain, increasing joint lubrication, preserving joint space, protecting cartilage breakdown by inhibiting specific enzymes, stimulating cartilage matrix repair, and other anti-inflammatory actions, we couldn't find any evidence to support claims that it can stop hair loss or promote hair regrowth.
Nourkrin conducted a clinical study of 60 people who took their products for 12 months. All subjects were over 18 years of age and suffered from at least some form of hair loss for at least one year prior to the study. During a 6 month double blind clinical study, 30 subjects took Nourkrin while the other 30 took a placebo. After 6 months, the 30 participants taking Nourkrin continued taking it for another 6 months while the 30 on the placebo were switched to Nourkrin for 12 months.
In the first 6 months, Nourkrin reports that 77% taking their hair loss treatment experienced an increase in hair growth and shaft thickness. After 12 months, 75% reported a decrease in overall thinning hair. 90% of women in the study reported overall hair improvement after 12 months. The hair counting method showed an average increase in hair count of 45 percent during the clinical study.
Though the above study sounds impressive, we don't know a lot about the participants nor can we be certain of the reliability of the study. All participants suffered from some form of thinning, but its cause for each patient hasn’t been disclosed. Additionally, clinical studies are considered more credible when they've been conducted or verified by third parties not interested in its financial success.
Another problem is that none of the active ingredients in Nourkrin are proven to stop hair loss. Therefore, their study is the only one balding men and women have to support such claims.
Anyone allergic to shellfish should avoid using Nourkrin. Women who are pregnant or breast feeding should not use Nourkrin hair loss products. Consulting with a doctor before using this treatment is advisable.
Nourkrin recommends taking 2 tablets daily for at least 6 months. Men and women over 176 lbs or those who smoke are advised to take 3 tablets daily. After 6 months, dosage can be cut down to one a day. Nourkrin also recommends using the shampoo, conditioner, and scalp lotion daily. The scalp lotion may be best applied in the evening and left on overnight.
60 tablets of the extra strength tablet costs about $75, the Man $65, the shampoo and scalp cleanser $12, the conditioner $13, and the scalp lotion $30. All in all, the Nourkrin Hair Recovery Program can get pricey after 6 months. FDA approved products like Rogaine (minoxidil)only runs approximately $15 a month or less and male treatment Propecia (finasteride)costs approximately $60 per month, not as expensive as Nourkrin.
Nourkrin boasts a big game, claiming high rates of success in reversing hair loss in men and women caused by varying conditions. Their clinical study also confirms its success rate however; the reliability of this study has not been verified by third parties uninterested in its financial success. Additionally, no clinical proof exists that any of the ingredients found in Nourkrin work to treat baldness.
Whether or not Nourkrin is the "real deal" is hard to determine with little evidence to support its claims. Therefore, those considering this treatment should proceed with caution and may want to consider exhausting proven treatments like Propecia and Rogaine first.