Name Ingredients:
Sulforaphane is a compound found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli. Sulforaphane comes from a family of molecules known as isothiocyanates, which are well-known for their anti-carcinogenic potential. Recently sulforaphane has been touted as being a beneficial treatment for hair loss
Key insights:
- The in vitro (in cells) evidence suggests that sulforaphane induces dihydrotestosterone (DHT) degrading enzymes, which may reduce the effects of hair loss symptoms due to an imbalance in DHT/T ratio (like in androgenetic alopecia).
- The in vivo (in mice) evidence suggests that sulforaphane treatment can reduce levels of DHT and testosterone, as well as improve hair regrowth over 6 weeks. However, the method of measuring hair regrowth appeared to be subjective.
- The clinical evidence suggests that treatment with a topical containing sulforaphane (plus L-menthol and dexpanthenol) may increase hair number over 18 weeks. However, because it is mixed with other ingredients, we cannot tell if it is sulforaphane providing the hair growth benefits. Furthermore, the treatment was administered using a conditioner, which is meant to coat the hair, not the scalp. Additionally, it has minimal contact time with our scalp skin, which means less opportunity for the ingredients inside the conditioner to absorb through the skin and have an effect.
- Our experience tracking members: sulforaphane by itself is not enough to improve hair loss outcomes.
Additional links:
- Sulforaphane: Evidence Quality (Rubric)
- Sulforaphane promotes murine hair growth by accelerating the degradation of dihydrotestosterone
- Sulforaphane, L-Menthol, and Dexpanthenol as a Novel Active Cosmetic Ingredient Composition for Relieving Hair Loss Symptoms
- Sulforaphane For Hair Loss – Does It Live Up To The Hype?