According to a study from Gragem Co, Ltd., sulforaphane, a chemical compound found in broccoli, may increase hair strand count by seven percent in men and can help promote growth for women struggling with a hair loss condition known as androgenic alopecia (AGA).
In the study, scientists examined growth over an 18-week period of application. At the end of the time period, researchers noticed the prototype gel led to visual improvement in the parietal lines and bangs. “We expect that sulforaphane has the potential to become a highly effective functional hair cosmetic to relieve hair loss with AGA,” writes a scientist from Gragem. Co, Ltd.
Beverly Hills, CA hair restoration specialist Dr. Craig Ziering notes that sulforaphane is also found in vegetables such as cabbage and cauliflower, and that it does indeed have a positive effect on patients with genetic hair-loss conditions.
“The conversion from testosterone to DHT, which binds to receptors and creates follicular miniaturization, is accepted as the key theory behind AGA hair loss,” says Dr. Ziering. “Continuing with the fact that androgen-sensitive hair will miniaturize with the conversion of testosterone to DHT, blocking that conversion or upregulating our natural inhibitor function could support, delay or lessen progression of AGA.”
While the application of the compound is effective, Dr. Ziering says eating broccoli or other cruciferous vegetables in the same family will not act as a scalp saver. “Yes, please do eat your broccoli for sure, but also see your hair-restoration specialist for a comprehensive program of treatments and procedures to maintain healthy hair and manage it, too.”
