Hair loss is a common concern affecting men and women that can impact confidence and well-being. Whilst a number of good treatment options exist, not everything works for everyone and results vary. The absence of a universal hair loss treatment has continues to drive research into developing a more complete solution. One recent promising development in this space is deoxyribose sugar. This is a naturally occurring pentose sugar known as 2-deoxy-D-ribose. Emerging research suggests that deoxyribose sugar gel could play a significant role in promoting scalp health and addressing hair loss. Understandably, these early finding s have gone viral but can this innovative approach offer a new solution to thinning hair? In this article, we take a deep dive into the science behind deoxyribose sugar and explore its potential benefit as a hair loss treatment in future.
What is Deoxyribose Sugar?
Deoxyribose sugar is a naturally occurring sugar molecule that forms a crucial component of DNA. The structure of this pentose sugar gives it unique biochemical properties which allows 2-deoxy-D-ribose to play an essential role in cellular processes including DNA repair and replication. Not only is deoxyribose sugar vital for DNA structure but there is also emerging evidence that it is also a cellular antioxidant. This means it helps protect tissues from oxidative stress. As oxidative stress is a key contributor to hair follicle damage and thinning. It is thought that by scavenging free radicals, deoxyribose sugar may provide a protective barrier to protect hair follicles.
Does Deoxyribose Sugar Treat Hair Loss?
Whilst studies on deoxyribose sugar to treat hair loss are still limited, there are some early promising signs. The hype at the moment centres around research by the University Of Sheffield and COMSATS University Pakistan which shows that deoxyribose sugar gel can treat testosterone driven hair loss. This is obviously hugely promising for male pattern hair loss. However, there’s one catch. The findings whilst promising are from research done on mice. Given the differences between species, we know that not everything that works on mice will necessary carry over to humans. Also it takes almost a decade for medicines to get from the animal study to clinical trial phase and then if successful be licensed for use. Despite this, there is still reason to be excited at the potential for a new hair loss treatment at the very least because it gives a greater insight into the causes of hair loss.
How Does it Work?
We already know that hair loss whether due to genetics, hormonal changes or environmental stressors usually involves damage to the hair follicle and surrounding tissue. So far, the working theories are that deoxyribose sugar helps treat hair loss and promote regrowth in 3 main ways:
- Antioxidant Protection: Several studies have highlighted the role of oxidative stress in hair loss particularly in androgenetic alopecia. Excessive free radical activity can damage the delicate structures of hair follicles. This then leads to their miniaturisation and eventual inactivity. Deoxyribose sugar scavenges free radicals which has the potential to then protect hair follicles from damage.
- Anti-Inflammatory Potential: Chronic inflammation in the scalp is a common driver of hair loss as it disrupts the hair growth cycle and weakens the hair follicle. Preliminary research into deoxyribose sugar suggests that it may have anti-inflammatory effects by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This suggest that deoxyribose sugar could possibly create a healthier scalp environment to enable hair growth.
- Cellular Regeneration: Deoxyribose sugar plays an key role in DNA repair and cellular regeneration. These are essential for maintaining active and healthy hair follicles. As hair loss often involves damage to the follicle’s stem cells or surrounding tissue, it is possible that deoxyribose sugar could help repair damaged or awaken dormant follicles.
What Would Deoxyribose Hair Growth Treatment Involve & When Will it Be Available?
At the moment, the evidence we have for deoxyribose sugar for hair loss mainly involves its use as a topical gel treatment. Using a gel to deliver deoxyribose allows for painless, easy application with targeted delivery and greater absorption. Early prototypes of deoxyribose sugar hair gel also show improved scalp hydration and supporting a healthier environment for hair follicles. As such, if the data holds up then it is likely that it will be available as a topical gel treatment. However, we’re a bit far from this as the data is still at the animal studies stage. We need large clinical trials to show its direct effects on human hair follicles and to establish efficacy as well safety as a hair loss treatment. If the science continues to show promise, we may see deoxyribose sugar gel and similar products on the market within a few years and possibly sooner in compounded formulas.
The possibility of deoxyribose sugar as a hair loss treatment is exciting and provides further insight into the causes of this common condition. By addressing the three key contributors to hair thinning, this pentose sugar may offer a cutting-edge solution for healthier, stronger and fuller hair. However, its early days and more research is needed to establish its full effects on hair loss and safety. Until then, continue to keep your scalp healthy, care for your hair follicles and try established hair loss treatments.
At City Skin clinic, we are devotees of personalised skincare and provide for safe effective personalised skin and hair loss treatments through our virtual clinic. Our doctors customise treatments to each and every patient’s unique needs using ingredients like Tretinoin and Hydroquinone where appropriate. We treat conditions like acne, hyperpigmentation, melasma, skin ageing and hair loss. To start your personalised skincare protocol, book a virtual video consultation or use our online consultation form. The journey towards great skin starts here.
