A new study indicates that hair follicles might have turn-ons and turn-offs, just like the men and women. Unlike men and women, the recently discovered on/off switches have nothing to do with preference for the personality, physical features, or proximity of a potential mate. Instead, these turn-ons involve stem cells and a special pathway that delivers a protein referred to as Wnt.
The study was conducted at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine. There, a team of scientists has discovered that “turning on” a special pathway known to regulate adult stem cells can trigger the release of Wnt proteins and cause even dormant (hairless) follicles to grow new strands of hair. On the other hand, scientists believe the pathway can also be “turned off” to prevent Wnt proteins from causing hair to grow.
Stem Cells, Wnt Protein, and Hair Growth
The discovery that hair follicles might be able to be “turned on” or “turned off” via manipulating a specific pathway has become a topic of much discussion this winter. Reporting to the journal Cell Stem Cell, Sarah Millar explains:
While more research is needed to improve our understanding of this pathway, our results suggest that therapeutics capable of decreasing levels of [Wnt action] in the skin could potentially be used to block growth of unwanted hair[…] Conversely, agents that activate Wnt signaling might be used to promote hair growth.
Nourishing the Hair Follicle
Hair follicle health is essential for the growth of full and beautiful hair. Follicles support the growth of each strand, serving as a foundation through which oxygen, protein, and other vital nutrients are delivered. When follicle health suffers, hair can become brittle, fine, and can stop growing altogether.
For these reasons, scientists have become fixated on the study and improvement of hair follicle health. The discoveries made by the research team at the University of Pennsylvania noted above are just one example. Around the globe, other research institutions and scientists are studying additional ways to improve the health of hair follicles. Ultimately, the goal is to find a way to wake dormant follicles and nourish them until they can support a normal hair growth cycle. In doing so, scientists believe a cure for baldness will be achieved.
Low Level Laser Therapy
One way scientists believe hair follicles can be nourished is through Low Level Laser Therapy, or LLLT. This special treatment exposes areas of bald scalp to FDA-approved lasers that are designed to stimulate blood flow to dormant hair follicles. The lasers are cool to the touch and safe to use in conjunction with other hair loss treatments, like hair transplant surgery, Rogaine®, or Propecia®.
Low Level Laser Therapy at Our Institute
The Hair Transplant Institute of Miami is pleased to offer the Capillus 272, a new and completely portable form of LLLT treatment that fits underneath your favorite baseball cap or hat. Patients who use the Capillus 272 enjoy a comfortable, convenient, and personalized treatment at home, in the office, on a morning run, or even on the golf course.
To learn more about this new and exciting treatment for hair loss, watch the video below.
The Capillus 272 is designed for men and women who want to reenergize their hair with safe, FDA-approved laser therapy. The Capillus may deliver exceptional results when used in conjunction with hair transplant surgery, Rogaine®, Propecia®, or stand-alone.
Hair Loss Evaluation. To learn more about hair loss evaluations at the Hair Transplant Institute of Miami, call our office directly at 305-925-0222.