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

Intro

In this episode of the Huberman Lab podcast, Dr. Andrew Huberman dives into the science of healthy hair, hair loss, and how to regrow hair. He discusses the various factors that regulate hair growth, including hormones, mechanical influences, and stress. Dr. Huberman also dispels common myths about balding and hair replacement. This episode is sponsored by Helix Sleep, HVMN ketone IQ, and Roka eyeglasses and sunglasses.

Main Takeaways

Understanding Hair Growth and Hair Loss

• Hormones like estrogen, thyroid hormone, and insulin-like growth factor regulate hair growth.
• Androgens like testosterone control the stem cell pool that gives rise to hair growth.
• Stem cells located in the hair bulb give rise to the various types of cells that make up the hair.
• Mechanical and chemical approaches can slow or reverse hair loss.

Hormone-Related Hair Loss

• Hormones such as dihydrotestosterone (DHT) can cause changes in the hair bulb region, shortening the hair growth phase and promoting hair loss.
• Finasteride, a medication that reduces DHT levels, can increase hair count and thickness.
• Saw Palmetto, an herbal compound, can inhibit the enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT.
• Topical finasteride is associated with fewer side effects than oral finasteride.

Mechanical and Stress-Related Influences on Hair Loss

• Microneedling and PRP injections can stimulate hair growth by activating semi-quiescent populations of stem cells.
• Botox injections to the scalp can relieve tension and increase blood flow to the hair follicles.
• Increasing blood flow to the scalp through massage or scalp heating can support hair growth.

Dispelling Common Myths about Balding and Hair Replacement

• Inheriting patterns of balding from your mother’s father is a common myth.
• Various treatments like minoxidil, finasteride, and caffeine can help slow hair loss and maintain hair growth.
• PRP injections and microneedling can be effective in stimulating hair growth.

Summary

Understanding Hair Growth and Hair Loss

Hair growth is regulated by hormones such as estrogen, thyroid hormone, and insulin-like growth factor. Androgens like testosterone control the stem cell pool responsible for hair growth. Stem cells located in the hair bulb give rise to the different types of cells that make up the hair. Mechanical and chemical approaches can slow down or reverse hair loss by stimulating blood flow to the hair follicles and activating stem cells.

Hormone-Related Hair Loss

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone derived from testosterone, plays a role in hair loss by inhibiting the action of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) and cyclic AMP, which are essential for hair growth. Medications like finasteride and herbal compounds like Saw Palmetto can reduce DHT levels and promote hair growth. Topical finasteride is a safer alternative to oral finasteride, with fewer side effects.

Mechanical and Stress-Related Influences on Hair Loss

Microneedling and PRP injections can stimulate hair growth by activating semi-quiescent populations of stem cells. Botox injections to the scalp relieve tension and increase blood flow to the hair follicles. Mechanical manipulations like massage and scalp heating can also support hair growth by increasing blood flow.

Dispelling Common Myths about Balding and Hair Replacement

The notion that balding patterns are inherited from the mother’s father is a myth. Treatments like minoxidil, finasteride, and caffeine can help slow down hair loss and maintain hair growth. PRP injections and microneedling show promise in stimulating hair growth. It’s important to seek professional advice and choose the appropriate treatment based on individual needs.

Conclusion

Understanding the factors that regulate hair growth and cause hair loss is essential for finding effective treatments. Hormones, mechanical influences, and stress all play a role in hair health. By utilizing various approaches, such as hormone regulation, mechanical stimulation, and proper scalp care, individuals can slow down hair loss and potentially regrow hair. It’s important to consult with healthcare professionals to determine the best course of action for each individual’s specific needs.