More than 80% of men and over 30% of women report experiencing hair loss for one reason or another.
It is therefore not surprising that scientists have sought solutions to stimulate hair growth. One of the top ingredients is caffeine, which is believed to have a stimulating effect on hair follicle growth and improve hair density and strength.
In this article, discover the many benefits that caffeine can have on your hair.
Caffeine to fight hair loss
Some studies show that caffeine reduces levels of DHT, an androgen hormone derived from testosterone and responsible for hair loss, which can lead to androgenetic alopecia. By lowering its level, hair loss is limited.
Caffeine also stimulates hair growth by prolonging the growth phase (anagen). By extending the anagen phase, fewer hairs prematurely enter the telogen phase, which helps reduce shedding.
A 2017 study showed that when applied at concentrations of 0.001% to 0.005% to human hair follicles, caffeine extended the anagen phase and hair shaft, resulting in longer and thicker roots.
Caffeine to boost hair growth
Caffeine stimulates the proliferation of keratinocytes in the hair matrix. Simply put, keratinocytes are responsible for forming the hair. They divide and produce keratin, a protein that makes up the hair fiber. These cells move upward in the hair follicle, harden, and form the hair. Caffeine thus increases this proliferation and, consequently, hair growth.
However, at excessively high concentrations (beyond 100 μg/mL), it can have inhibitory effects, causing overstimulation of the follicle metabolism, excessive energy consumption, and depletion of its proliferation capacity.
Caffeine also plays a role in inhibiting phosphodiesterase.
What does this mean? Phosphodiesterase inhibition is a biological process that prevents the breakdown of a molecule called cAMP (cyclic adenosine monophosphate). This molecule plays a key role in hair follicle growth. cAMP helps extend the anagen phase, meaning the hair growth phase, which slows down hair loss and promotes growth. It also stimulates keratinocytes, enhancing hair production. Lastly, cAMP counteracts the effects of DHT, a hormone responsible for androgenetic alopecia.
Caffeine for nutrient delivery to hair
Caffeine indirectly facilitates the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles.
Indeed, caffeine is a vasodilator, meaning it helps dilate blood vessels and improves blood circulation, which transports essential nutrients for a healthy scalp.
Another benefit of cAMP is that it also stimulates the scalp’s microcirculation, promoting the supply of nutrients and oxygen to hair follicles.
Caffeine in hair products
Drinking coffee is not enough to experience caffeine’s beneficial effects on your hair. The amount absorbed by the body is insufficient to yield noticeable results. For visible effects, it must be applied directly to the scalp.
At Cair, we have developed a strengthening serum with a caffeine complex that is applied to the scalp before shampooing. Its caffeine complex enhances microcirculation, promoting growth and protecting hair health.
This natural serum also contains rice water, ideal for hydrating and strengthening the scalp, and hyaluronic acid, which maintains optimal hydration in the hair thanks to its ability to retain moisture.
Additionally, this serum gently exfoliates the scalp, stimulating its vitality through the combined action of lactic acid and phytic acid. It also contains the prebiome complex, ensuring a healthy and long-lasting bacterial balance.
Thanks to this serum, hair growth is stimulated, and the scalp regains health and vitality.