Though we aren’t cosmetic chemists, part of our job as beauty editors is to examine ingredient labels to understand which ingredients are in certain products. Lately, one ingredient has been popping up everywhere in hair-growth products, and it’s called Redensyl. Some brands have dubbed it “a natural alternative to minoxodil” and claim that it yields better results, but is that really the case? We’ve tapped two leading dermatologists to share their expert insight on this ingredient and how it works to help with hair loss and thinning hair.
Featured Experts
- Anna Chacon, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami
- Robert Finney, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
What is Redensyl?
Made by Givaudan, a cosmetic manufacturer, Redensyl is an ingredient in topical hair products with the goal to promote hair growth and increase hair density. “Redensyl is a combination of botanical ingredients designed to help fight hair loss by stimulating the cells responsible for hair growth, aka dermal papilla cells,” explains Dr. Finney. “It contains dihydroquercetin glucoside (DHQG), epigallocatechin gallate glucoside (EGCG2), glycine, zinc chloride, metabisulfite and glycerin.”
Dr. Chacon says the ingredient’s combination of patented molecules, including DHQG and EGCG-glucoside, help stimulate hair follicle activity. The addition of zinc and glycerin support scalp health and hydration. “Unlike some other hair-growth treatments, Redensyl focuses on improving hair follicle function rather than just increasing blood circulation to the scalp,” she explains. “It’s gaining traction in the hair-care industry, particularly in serums and shampoos aimed at hair regrowth.”
Who can benefit from using it?
“Redensyl is beneficial for individuals experiencing early-stage hair thinning or mild-to-moderate hair loss,” says Dr. Chacon. “It is a non-hormonal solution, making it suitable for both men and women. However, those with severe hair loss or underlying medical conditions like alopecia areata may not see significant benefits and might need more targeted treatments. While Redensyl shows potential, consistency is key, and results can vary from person to person. Also, as with any new product, individuals with scalp sensitivities or allergies should patch-test first.”
How does Redensyl compare to minoxidil?
Redensyl is often marketed as an alternative to minoxidil, but Dr. Finney says “studies are lacking” when it comes to this hair-growth treatment. “Although there is a little bit out there, there are no well-designed clinical trials to evaluate its efficacy. Most of the evidence that does exist utilizes it in combination with other ingredients or treatments.” Dr. Chacon agrees, noting that minoxidil is FDA-approved and has a well-documented ability to increase blood flow to the scalp and extend the hair-growth phase. “While Redensyl is a promising alternative, more long-term studies are needed to establish its efficacy compared to minoxidil.”
In a 2019 comparative study in the Journal of Cosmetology & Trichology, researchers concluded that Redensyl “represents a potentially innovative and effective approach for patients who have concerns regarding the side effects of topical
minoxidil.” However, “in order to further evaluate the effectiveness of [Redensyl] treatment, more large-scale, controlled studies need to be conducted to assess the difference between single and combinational usage with minoxidil.”
Therefore, Dr. Finney doesn’t recommend using Redensyl as a sole therapy to combat hair loss. “The best over-the-counter option for both men and women suffering from hair loss is still hands down minoxidil 5 percent,” he says. “Unfortunately, there is always a push for ‘natural and drug-free,’ which deters some people from using minoxidil, which is tried-and-true. If someone were going to use Redensyl, I would recommend it as an adjunct to minoxidil or another proven option.”
Hair Products That Contain Redensyl
