• Damkerng Pathomvanich, MD

    Dr. Damkerng Pathomvanich
    Dr. Damkerng Pathomvanich
    Dr. Damkerng Pathomvanich and his experienced staff regularly perform large densely packed megasessions with outstanding results.
  • TRX2 Molecular Hair Loss Treatment from Europe

    TRX2 Molecular Hair Loss Treatment from Europe

    Revolutionary Hair Growth Formula?

    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 Ingredients

    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).

    TRX2 Scientific Studies?

    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.

    Does TRX2 Work?

    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.

    TRX2 Side Effects

    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.

    Conclusion

    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?”.

  • What is Rogaine and how does it work?

    Along with Propecia, Rogaine is one of the only proven hair loss medication options approved by the FDA for treating hair loss. Minoxidil, (Rogaine’s active ingredient), was originally created as a drug for treating hypertension (high blood pressure). It was then discovered that one of its side affects was growing hair. Minoxidil was then tested for use a topical application for regrowing hair. The results were sufficiently impressive that the FDA approved it as a treatment for hair loss.

    Rogaine works by revitalizing shrunken hair follicles, thus increasing their size. When you use Rogaine every day, your follicles may increase in size, and the growing phase may become longer. This may then produce longer, thicker hairs.

    Rogaine is a clear alcohol-based solution and should be applied to a person’s thinning area with its supplied dropper or spray twice a day.

    The solution is approved and available in two strengths -- Regular (2%) and Extra Strength (5%). Individual users of Regular strength Rogaine have claimed success rates of 30-40%. Meanwhile, users of Extra Strength Rogaine have claimed success rates of 50-60%. Currently, the average price for a 2oz. bottle of Rogaine is about $20-30 per month. Minoxidil is also available as a generic and can be purchased over the counter without prescription.

    It’s important to note that Rogaine (minoxidil) does not cure baldness and scientists have been unable to determine just how it works. What is known is that Rogaine increases the blood flow to the areas of the scalp that surround these balding areas. Currently some researchers believe that Rogaine (minoxidil) works by opening the follicle’s potassium channels located in the cells. It’s theorized that these channels, when opened, may regulate hair growth.

    Rogaine can’t grow hair on completely bald scalps or in the frontal hairline areas. It has been found to be somewhat effective in maintaining or growing hair in the crown area (the top back of the head). However, Rogaine is only effective at delaying hair loss. It is also more effective in women than in men. And again, the reasons for this are not understood.

    What can I expect with Rogaine?

    Rogaine (minoxidil) generally only regrows hair in a minority of men and women. In most cases, the best case scenario for hair growth with these treatments is a thin coverage of thin hair.

    The real benefits of Rogaine (minoxidil) is keeping what hair you have or slowing your thinning. Rogaine’s success depends on how advanced your hair loss has become.

    You must apply it to your scalp twice a day for life to get and maintain any benefits. Research shows that using Rogaine (minoxidil) only once a day is ineffective. If you stop taking Rogaine (minoxidil) you will loose whatever hair you preserved or regrew within 2 to 4 months. And while Rogaine may stimulate hair growth, it may not prevent the hair follicles from their eventual deterioration.

    It's also true that Rogaine's effects may diminish over time. Some doctors believe that patients can build up a tolerance after many years of use. But it's possible to fight this tolerance by taking a week or two off from the treatment every 3-4 months. However, it's not advised to take this break unless you've taken the hair loss medication consistently for at least 12 months.

    Are there side effects from Rogaine?

    There are only minor side effects with Rogaine. But some users do experience certain problems such as scalp irritation, itching, and dandruff. However, this can be treated with a good shampoo like Nizoral or Neutrogena T-Gel. There may also be an increase in hair shedding at the start of the treatment. You shouldn’t panic, as this may actually be a signal that the treatment is working.

    Due to the medication’s alcohol content, some users may develop a contact rash or irritated skin. And with excessive doses, some users may experience dizziness or a rapid heartbeat. However, with normal use these effects are uncommon.

    Rogaine users with severe, refractory high blood pressure experienced some problems. One such problem was “hypertrichosis,” hair growth on the face or other bodily areas. This side effect appears in about 3-5 % of women who use the 2% solution, and higher among women using the 5% solution.

    Rogaine and Hair Transplants

    Some hair restoration physicians have come to consider Rogaine to be instrumental right after surgery. This is especially true when grafts have been placed in and around existing hair.

    The shock of surgery can result in temporary hair loss. Rogaine is thought to possibly help prevent this temporary loss of healthy preexisting hair. The 5% solution has been found to be more effective for men and women. However, some physicians believe that the hair loss medication should be stopped a week or two before surgery. They feel that Rogaine may increase bleeding, while dilating blood vessels.

    After surgery, most patients wait a week or two before restarting Rogaine. This gives the graft areas time to heal. However, taking Propecia is not interrupted by surgery.

    Click to learn more about DHT Blockers

  • Dr. Bessam Farjo

    Dr. Bessam Farjo
    Dr. Bessam Farjo
    The Farjo Hair Institute is a family run clinic solely devoted to performing excellent follicular unit hair transplantation in Manchester and London.
  • Traction Alopecia Hair Loss

    Traction Alopecia Hair Loss

    What is Traction Alopecia?

    Traction alopecia is a form of hair loss resulting from the repeated yet unintentional pulling, twisting or rubbing of the hair. Traction alopecia can affect both men and women, though it's more commonly seen in women. Though it can be temporary, balding from traction alopecia may become permanent if these traumatic forces are applied to the hair and scalp repeatedly and for prolonged periods, resulting in scarring.

    What Causes Traction Alopecia?

    Practices that may result in traction alopecia include; wearing tight braids, ponytails or cornrows and extended use of hair extensions.  Due to the popularity of these hairstyles, traction alopecia has become one of the leading causes of hair loss among African America women.

    Balding from traction alopecia can also occur from repeatedly wearing tight-fitting hats, helmets or other headgear.This is likely where the popular hair loss myth about hats causing hair loss derived, but it is important to note that, under normal circumstances, wearing a properly fitted hat will not negatively impact hair growth.

    Treating Traction Alopecia

    The first step in treating traction alopeciais to change the habits leading to the condition. This may mean adopting a new hairstyle or altering your wardrobe. Finally, applying a vaso dilator like Rogaine(minoxidil) to the affected area can increase blood flow to the damaged follicles and effectively speed up new hair growth. Assuming the hair follicles have not been permanently damaged, new hair growth will likely occur though it may take several months.

    In cases of severe and permanent tractional opecia, the only effective method of restoring hair to the bald areas is surgical hair restoration. State of the art, ultra-refined follicular unit hair transplantation allows quality surgeons to harvest DHT resistant hair from the donor region at the rear and sides of the head. These hairs are then implanted into the balding areas of the scalp, resulting in a natural and undetectable appearance. To see which physicians we recommend and for a free virtual consult, visit the Coalition of Independent Hair Restoration Physicians.

    To learn more about how surgical hair restoration can be used to treat traction alopecia hair loss, view the following results from our hair loss forum and social community:

  • Nanogen Hair Loss Concealer Review

    Nanogen Hair Loss Concealer

    A Thicker Fuller Head of Hair in 30 Seconds?

    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.

    How Nanogen Works

    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.

    Applying Nanogen

    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 colors

    Conclusion

    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.

    See what Real Patients are Saying about DermMatch on our Hair Loss Forum

    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.

  • DHT Blockers - Inhibiting Hair Loss at its Roots

    DHT Blockers

    There are several topical treatments like Revivogen, Crinagen, Progesterone Creams, Kevis 8 and Xandrox that claim to minimize or block the amount of dyhydrotestosterone (DHT) present in the scalp.

    DHT acts as a catalyst for the hair loss process as it binds with the receptor sites in hair follicles that are genetically vulnerable to hair loss. Over time, this process of DHT acting on the genetically vulnerable hair follicles hurts their ability to grow healthy hair.

    The success of these topical treatments in reducing DHT levels in the scalp has not been clinically proven. However, the possibility of reducing DHT only in the scalp region rather than through out the entire body as with Propecia or Avodart is appealing.

    Click to learn more about how to stop hair loss with Hair Growth Stimulators

  • Bijan Feriduni, MD

    Dr. Bijan Feriduni
    Dr. Bijan Feriduni
    Dr. Bijan Feriduni has been dedicated exclusively to advanced hair restoration since 1995 and now performs large sessions of ultra refined strip and FUE hair transplantation with outstanding results.
  • Tricomin Follicle Therapy Spray, Shampoo and Conditioner

    Tricomin hair loss treatment

    Tricomin pack

    Tricomin is an all natural hair loss treatment designed for both men and women with thinning hair to stimulate hair regrowth and improve the appearance of thinning hair. It can also be used in conjunction with with Rogainehair regrowth treatment.

    Tricomin Solution Follicle Therapy Spray combines the benefits of the Triamino Copper Nutritional Complex with an exceptional leave-in conditioner. The therapy spray enriches your hair and scalp with a unique blend of mineral and body-building ingredients and essential amino acids. Spraying the therapy spray liberally after shampooing daily will condition and treat your hair and scalp. It's recommended to apply this product to damp or dry hair.

    The Tricomin Revitalizing Shampoo stimulates and restores health, structure, and vitality to thinning, fine, and damaged hair. It's recommended to use the Revitalizing Shampoo daily, gently massaging it into moistened hair scalp, leaving on for 3 to 5 minutes before rinsing. A second application may be made if desired.
    The Restructuring Conditioner uses a unique moisture and nutrient-rich framework to help restore your hair's natural mineral and protein balance. This conditioner helps to add structure and body onto thinning and/or damaged hair.

    For best results, use all three Tricomin products in conjunction with one another. All 3 Tricomin products is called the Tricomin TricoPak.

    How It Works:

    Al three Tricomin products contain the active ingredient copper peptides. Scientific evidence suggests that copper peptides can shorten the shedding (telogen) phase and elongate the growth (anagen) phase of the follicles. Partial FDA trials showed Tricomin products' effectiveness in promoting new hair growth.

    Developing Realistic Expectations:

    Tricomin copper peptide technology may provide marginal benefit to men and women with thinning 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.

    Ingredients

    Tricomin Follicle Therapy Spray:  Purified Water, SD Alcohol 40B, Amodimethicone, Nonoxynol-10, Panthenol, Polyquaternium-11, Polysorbate 60, Tallowtrimonium Chloride, Citric Acid, Dimethyl Lauramine Isostearate, Linoleamidopropyl Ethyl Dimonium Ethosulfate, Triamino Copper Nutritional Complex (Alanine/Histidine/Lysine Polypetide Copper HCl), Methylparaben, Benzethonium Chloride, Menthol, FD&C Blue #1.

    Tricomin Revitalizing Shampoo: Purified Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Cocomidopropyl Betaine, Ceteth-16, Glycerin, Laneth-16, Oleth-16, Steareth-16, PEG-75 Lanolin, Sodium Chloride, Triamino Copper Nutritional Complex (Alanine/Histidine/Lysine Polypetide Copper HCl), Citric Acid, Diazolidinyl Urea, Hydrolyzed Keratin, Panthenol, Methylparaben, Fragrance, Propylparaben, Peppermint Oil, D&C Red #33, FD&C Blue #1.

    Tricomin Restructuring Conditioner: Purified Water, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Cetyl Alcohol, Propylene Glycol, Stearyl Alcohol, Dimethylamine, Triamino Copper Nutritional Complex (Alanine/Histidine/Lysine Polypetide Copper HCl), Hydroxyethylcellulose, Panthenol, Aloe Vera Gel, Soydimonium Hydroxypropyl Hydroxylyzed Wheat Protein, Hydroxylyzed Keratin, Citric Acid, Methylparaben, Fragrance, Disodium EDTA, Propylparaben, Peppermint Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate, Cholecalciferol, Retinyl Palmitate, Vegetable Oil, FD&C Blue #1, D&C Red #33.

  • Revita Shampoo for Hair Loss

    Revita Hair Loss Treatment

    Revita ShampooThe new and revolutionary Revita Shampoo has all the right stuff to stop DHT and promote healthy hair growth. Revita contains the proven DHT inhibitor ketoconazoleand vitamins and minerals essential for nourishing and cleansing the scalp and hair, including the same copper peptide technology included in Tricominproducts.

    This product includes a 6 ounces or 180ML bottle with 1% of the active ingredient ketoconazole. To view the clinical abstract proving the effectiveness of ketoconazole in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia, view Ketoconazole as a hair loss treatment.

    Unlike Nizoral, the revolutionary Revita shampoo can and should be used daily. Revita leaves your scalp and hair feeling great daily with no signs of dryness or flakiness. It's also a magnificent volumizing shampoo, promoting maximum fullness.

    Developing Realistic Expectations:

    Men and women sometimes suffer from hair loss for different reasons. Thus, diagnosing its cause is necessary to facilitate and promote proper treatment.

    Don't expect immediate results. It's recommended to use Revita in conjunction with proven treatments 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 Revita has been successful in helping you maintain existing hair.

    Hair shedding is a common symptom the first few months and a sign that Revita may be working for you. It's crucial to push past this stage with continued use for the recommended period of time.

    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.

    Ingredients (Full List)

    Apple PolyphenolProcyanidin B2 & C1
    Copper Peptides
    Spin Traps
    Ketoconazole
    Rooibos
    MSM
    Caffeine 4%
    Carnitine Tartrate
    Amino Acids
    Emu Oil
    Biotin