From the Guidelines
Lycopene and zinc supplements may not be the most effective treatment for hair fall, and their use should be considered with caution, as the current evidence does not strongly support their efficacy in treating alopecia areata 1. When considering supplements for hair fall, it's essential to look at the available evidence. Lycopene, an antioxidant found in tomatoes and other red fruits, may help protect hair follicles from oxidative stress and inflammation that contribute to hair loss. However, there is limited research on its specific use for hair fall. A typical supplemental dose of lycopene ranges from 10-30mg daily. Zinc, on the other hand, is essential for hair tissue growth and repair, and deficiency is often linked to hair loss. For zinc supplementation, 15-30mg daily is commonly recommended, though exceeding 40mg daily should be avoided to prevent side effects 1. Some studies suggest that zinc may be beneficial in treating alopecia areata, particularly in patients with low serum zinc levels 1. However, the evidence is inconsistent, and more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness. In terms of treatment guidelines, the British Association of Dermatologists recommends intralesional corticosteroid for limited patchy hair loss and contact immunotherapy for extensive patchy hair loss 1. It's crucial to note that alopecia areata is a complex condition, and treatment should be individualized based on the severity and extent of hair loss, as well as the patient's overall health and medical history. While lycopene and zinc supplements may be considered as part of a comprehensive approach to hair health, they should not be relied upon as the sole treatment for hair fall. A balanced diet rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals, proper hair care, stress management, and addressing any underlying medical conditions are also essential for maintaining healthy hair. Results from supplements may take 3-6 months to become noticeable, as hair growth cycles are slow.
From the Research
Lycopene and Zinc for Hair Fall
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that discusses the use of lycopene for hair fall.
- However, the studies do provide information on the use of zinc for hair loss, particularly in the context of alopecia areata.
- According to 2, zinc supplementation was found to have a positive therapeutic effect in alopecia areata patients with low serum zinc levels, with 66.7% of patients showing improvement in hair regrowth.
- Another study 3 suggests that combination therapy with zinc gluconate and PUVA may be effective for alopecia areata totalis, and that zinc supplementation may play a crucial role in maintaining hair regrowth.
Zinc Supplementation for Hair Loss
- The studies suggest that zinc supplementation may be beneficial for hair loss, particularly in cases where patients have low serum zinc levels 2, 3.
- However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of zinc supplementation on hair growth and to identify the optimal dosage and duration of treatment.
- It is also important to note that the effectiveness of zinc supplementation may vary depending on the individual and the underlying cause of hair loss.
Other Treatments for Hair Loss
- The studies also discuss other treatments for hair loss, including minoxidil 4, 5, finasteride, topical prostaglandins, natural supplements, microneedling, low-level laser light, platelet-rich plasma, fractional lasers, cellular therapy, Wnt activators, and SFRP1 antagonism 6.
- However, these treatments are not directly related to the use of lycopene and zinc for hair fall.