Beyond the Textbook: Topicals for Androgenic Alopecia

In the management of Androgenic alopecia, we are fortunate as Naturopathic Doctors to offer a wide array of therapeutic options to our patient population. From dietary adjustments to oral supplements, in addition to using the principles of TCM & acupuncture, our unique approach is what typically draws patients to seek our advice. Despite the range of internal and lifestyle-based avenues we can utilize, the application of topical products for managing androgenic alopecia has generally been underexplored. This is amplified even further by the fact that, in recent years, much research has been directed toward topical/cosmeceutical agents which impact hair growth. Specific to androgenic alopecia, the effects of numerous natural compounds are being elucidated in relation to, for example, their influence over the likes of the hair growth cycle; conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone; microcirculation, microinflammation, and supporting the extracellular matrix surrounding the hair follicle.  Based on this emerging realm of research, many more ‘hair cosmeceutical’ products are now available on store shelves. 

This course is designed to showcase some of the emerging pre-clinical & clinical research surrounding the topical use of various natural agents comprising this category. Among those explored include: caffeine; adenosine; peptides such as biotinoyl tripeptide-1, copper tripeptide-1, and acetyl tetrapeptide-3; apple polyphenols, Red clover extract (Trifolium pratense)-derived Biochanin A; Baikal skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis)-derived Baicalin; among others. As was first introduced in the Facial Aging CE course, this course will also provide examples of how these topical agents are being formulated together.

This course seeks to expand the range of treatment options for those Naturopathic Doctors/students, and other licensed health providers, helping patients manage male & female patterns of hair loss.  In addition, this course is designed to provide the course-taker with a breadth of information, including numerous resources and references from which you can build upon. It is very much encouraged to explore these as a means of obtaining a deeper breadth of the topics we review.